Ten Of The Greatest Things To Do Alone In London

When life is feeling hectic, London is rarely the place to make you feel calm. However, few have the luxury to jump on a plane and head to the stunning Algarve beaches or go island hoping in Greece whenever we choose, so finding peace in the English capital comes down to being a little creative. I personally find that one of the best ways to centre myself is by spending time exploring the fun things to do in London as a solo traveller. 

From reading in the royal parks or wandering the historic mews, exploring London alone is incredibly fun whether you’re a seasoned Londoner looking for an escape or new to the city because there are so many activities to indulge in.

And above all else, the best part is that London has truly solidified its reputation as being the destination where people don’t pay attention to each another, so if you feel awkward and apprehensive about taking pictures with a tripod or walking around a museum solo, trust me when I say no one is judging you because no one has even noticed. 

Travel and Accommodation In London 

While London is a large city, Central London, where you can enjoy most of these activities, is not. You can’t go wrong with where you stay, but I recommend staying on the north side of the River Thames. 

Good options include:

• Comfort Inn London – Westminster
• citizenM London Bankside
• Apex London Wall Hotel
• Dorsett City London
• Leonardo Royal London St Paul’s

London is incredibly well connected, and you can catch any transport link by simply tapping your card or phone wallet to the card readers on the bus or at the barriers before the train platforms. As such, you don’t even need to stay within Zone 1 but also, don’t stay further out than Zone 5 and make sure to be within walking distance of a tube line. 

The Greatest Things To Do Alone In London

Admire London’s Gorgeous Mews

Mews definition: a row or street of houses that have been converted from 18^th-century stables. And boy, London is full of them!

There is nothing quite like treating yourself to an over-priced coffee and exploring some of London’s most beautiful, vibrant neighbourhoods – and dreaming about how you will live here when you’re rich (yes, I am totally valid and realistic).

The mews’ crowd-less and serene setting also mean that they are perfect for solo photography as well.

Eat Your Heart Out At The Many London Food Markets

Unlike Italy, Spain and literally anywhere else in Europe, delicious national food isn’t exactly what England is known for. However, the multicultural nature of the capital means that London’s food markets are one of the best attractions to spend an afternoon at. Work up an appetite by walking around the stalls that bring you everything from Caribbean cuisine to Danish delights. 

Some of the best-known food markets in London include Borough Market (which has been a place of food and commerce for over 1000 years), Maltby Street, Broadway Market and Mercato Metrapolitano.

Fall In Love With The Flowers At Columbia Road Market

Well as Miley Cyrus said, we can all buy our own flowers – so why not bring these wise musical words to life and explore the stunning Columbia Road Market that is open every Sunday. The area turns into a blooming wonderland and sweet scents fill the air as if you’re wrapped in your very own perfume commercial. 

For fresh picks make sure to arrive at 8 am, for bargain prices arrive at 2pm. 

Have A Spa Day

Well does this really need any explaining? No one can say no to a little pampering, whether it be a massage, facial or sauna – and London in full of amazing spas to try out on your day of selfcare!

Join An Art Class

From pottery to painting, the city is filled with a variety of art classes that help your creative spirit soar, and a more hands-on activity always passes the time a lot quicker. Channel your inner Picasso and romanticise your life with a blank canvas and bubbles.

Relax and Read A Book In London’s Many Green Spaces

Kyoto Garden and Hampstead Pergola are some of my favourite places to visit in London when I am on my own. The beautiful, lush environments are perfect for photography and sitting around for hours reading a book on a warm day and offer tranquillity in an otherwise busy metropolis. Even the royal parks in central London feel like a world away even though they’re steps away from the city’s most crowded tourist spots. If you are looking for a little more adventure, why not head over to Richmond and explore Kew Gardens and its acres of glasshouses and treetop walks?

Stroll Along Southbank

Spending by the Thames riverfront is one the best things to do in London on a clear day. Alongside the skaters, cute bookstores and lovely pop-up food stalls, marvel at the skyline and appreciate being a stone-throw-away from landmarks such as the Globe Theatre, London Eye and Tate Modern. 

If you are around the area during the winter, make sure you stop by the famous Southbank Christmas Market for mulled wine, churros, and all things joyfully Christmas.

Take The Day To Explore Maritime Greenwich

Famed for being the place of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), the Prime Meridian of the world and a collection of UNESCO-listed buildings, Greenwich perfectly showcase the English artistic and scientific endeavours between the 17th and 18th centuries.

Unmissable landmarks in Greenwich include:

• The Queen’s House – first Palladian building in England
• The Royal Naval Hospital 
• The Royal Park, Maritime Museum and Meridian Line
• The Royal Observatory – the baseline for the world’s time zone system and measurement of longitude around the globe

Wander Around The Museums

Culture vultures can have a field day wandering around the endless collection of museums and galleries on offer. From the quirky London Transport Museum to the fascinating Science Museum, there is a lot to learn and love – and the best part is that this is something you can enjoy no matter the time of year!

Watch A Musical

There is nothing easier than sitting in the dark and being entertained by amazing performers and captivated by beautiful set designs. London’s West End provides a wonderful selection of plays and musicals to enjoy throughout the week and catching a show is a must for anyone that wants a break from socialising but still wants to be around a crowd. 

Practical Information About London

Location: England, United Kingdom

National Languages: English 

Currency: Sterling Pound

Neighbouring Countries: Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland