19 Fantastic Things to Do in London Alone

Posted 01/02/2024 | 1st February, 2024

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Embarking on a solo adventure in the vibrant city of London is an experience like no other. It has an incredible range of activities catering to the independent explorer, and I can assure you that you will never get bored!

From savouring a delightful solo dinner to immersing yourself in a spot of museum hopping, the possibilities are as diverse as the city itself.

In this guide, I’ve curated a list of the 19 best things to do in London alone. Each is designed to embrace the joy of your own company.

So, whether you’re up for a unique fitness class, indulging in a decadent spa day, or discovering the serenity of London’s parks, this article is your go-to companion for a solo escapade filled with relaxation, exploration, and the undeniable charm of the British capital.

19 Best Things to Do in London Alone

Check Out A Walking Tour

London’s walking tours offer a fantastic way to delve into the city’s rich history and vibrant neighbourhoods. From historical landmarks to hidden gems, these guided tours provide insightful narratives and a chance to discover the lesser-known aspects of the city.

Walking tours are some of the best things to do in London by yourself, as they can ease any nerves or uncertainty about walking in unfamiliar areas. They also offer the chance to meet like-minded people and are typically very affordable.

Whether it’s a stroll through the historic streets of Westminster or a themed tour focused on literary landmarks, walking tours offer an engaging and informative solo adventure through the heart of London.

Explore the Street Art in Shoreditch

Shoreditch, known for its eclectic atmosphere, is a haven for street art enthusiasts. The neighbourhood’s vibrant streets are adorned with an array of urban artworks, showcasing the creativity of local and international artists.

Taking a solo stroll through Shoreditch allows you to appreciate the dynamic street art scene at your own leisure. From large-scale murals to hidden alleyway gems, the streets become an open-air gallery, each piece telling a unique story.

One thing I love about the street art in Shoreditch is that it is ever-evolving! You can visit two weekends in a row and discover new pieces. Just head out early before the crowds arrive to snap some amazing photos.

Read the full article: The Best Self-Guided Shoreditch Street Art Walk

Shop Until You Drop

For those seeking fun things to do alone in London, embarking on a solo shopping spree is a delightful adventure. The city is a shopper’s delight, offering everything from luxury boutiques to quirky vintage stores.

If you’re new to London, head straight to Central and explore Regents Street and Oxford Street. If the weather is bad, White City is a great option.

However, if you’ve explored all the highlights on previous trips, then I recommend Spitalfields and Shoreditch in East London for a spot of vintage shopping.

Alternatively, head to Notting Hill and explore the many independent stores nestled within the gorgeous cafes and bars.

Indulge in a Spot of People-Watching

One of my favourite things to do when alone in London is a spot of people-watching.

Find a cosy spot in a bustling square like Covent Garden or settle into one of the quaint cafes along the Thames. As you sip on a cup of tea or coffee (or glass of wine!), take in the eclectic mix of locals and tourists passing by.

There is always something going on in London. You can have a great afternoon simply watching the world go by.

Enjoy One of London’s Lidos

For a refreshing and invigorating solo experience, head to one of London’s iconic lidos, outdoor swimming pools that promise a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle. What I love about Lido’s is that everyone has to swim alone, so it’s a great activity to enjoy alone in London.

Places like the Hampstead Heath Ponds or the Tooting Bec Lido offer a serene environment for a leisurely swim.

Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just dipping your toes into the water, the lidos provide a tranquil setting to unwind and enjoy the beauty of open-air swimming.

Wander The Southbank

Embrace the mesmerising beauty of the Thames by taking a leisurely stroll along the Southbank (without having to worry about keeping to anyone else’s pace!)

This iconic stretch offers so much, from vibrant street performers to cultural institutions like the Tate Modern. Whether you start near the London Eye or venture towards Tower Bridge (my personal favourite), the Southbank is a visual feast with its panoramic views of the city’s skyline.

Explore the book stalls of the Southbank Centre Book Market, enjoy the lively atmosphere of the food markets, or simply sit by the riverbank and relish the calming rhythm of the flowing water. The Southbank provides a perfect blend of cultural immersion and scenic beauty. This makes it an ideal destination for a solo wanderer.

Columbia Road Flower Market

If you’re looking for things to do on Sunday in London alone, Columbia Road Flower Market must be at the top of your list.

It’s busy, it’s chaotic, but it’s fantastic!

To be honest, if you visit as a couple or as a group, you will end up losing each other anyway – so why not anticipate the inevitable and visit alone to browse the offerings at your own pace?

For the most peaceful visit, plan your trip for 8 am, the opening time. However, for the best bargains, you should arrive just before 2 pm when many vendors are selling discounted stock before the market closes for the week.

Hit Up A Museum

Solo travel in London opens the door to cultural exploration, and one of the most enriching experiences is visiting the city’s world-renowned museums.

London’s museums offer diverse exhibits, from the British Museum’s historical treasures to the contemporary art at the Tate Modern.

Exploring these cultural hubs alone provides the freedom to delve into your preferred exhibits at your own pace, gaining insights into art, history, and science.

Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, or science lover, visiting a museum solo ranks high among the fun things to do alone in London.

Read the full article: 14 of The Best Museums in London

Enjoy A Solo Dinner

Enjoying a dinner on your own in London can be daunting until you realise just how many people are doing the same thing!

There are so many amazing places to eat in London, and as you may be aware, some reservations are almost impossible to achieve. But not for the solo diner! My advice is to grab yourself a bar table (much less intimidating) and take a book or Kindle with you (it prevents you from spending all of your time looking at your phone).

Indulging in a solo dinner means you can dictate the venue and time. Most importantly, you can enjoy the evening at your own pace.

Whether you’re cosying up in a historic pub or enjoying the skyline views from a rooftop restaurant, a solo dinner in London is a gastronomic adventure waiting to be explored.

Try A Unique Fitness Class

London is a playground for fitness enthusiasts, and diving into a unique fitness class is a fantastic way to stay active and meet like-minded individuals.

Whether it’s aerial yoga, trampoline workouts, or even a quirky dance class, the city offers a diverse range of fitness experiences.

Joining a class solo allows you to focus on your fitness goals and provides an opportunity to connect with fellow fitness enthusiasts in a friendly and motivating environment. The city’s fitness scene is diverse and vibrant, meaning there’s a class for every preference and fitness level.

Looking for even more London inspiration? Check out my bumper guide of 102 things to do in the Big Smoke!

Enjoy A Decandant Spa Day

Take a break from the bustling city life and treat yourself to a decadent spa day for the ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.

London boasts a myriad of luxurious spas, each offering a tranquil haven to unwind. Whether you’re looking for holistic treatments or a thermal experience, you won’t struggle to find the perfect pampering experience in London.

A solo spa day in London is a chance to escape the chaos of everyday life. It allows you to focus on self-care and emerge feeling refreshed and revitalised without worrying about anyone else’s needs, preferences, or budget!

AIRE Ancient Baths are amongst the most beautiful spas in London, with plenty of treatments available. Alternatively, for a luxury Thai experience, try out Thai Square Spa. Cowshed Spa in Primrose Hill offers an excellent range if you would prefer just to book a treatment.

Soak in Cafe Culture

From historical establishments to contemporary spots, enjoy a quiet moment with an oat milk latte and almond croissant – come on, this is London, after all!

For me, it absolutely has to be an independent spot (there are so many good ones, so why not!).

East London is the best spot for independent cafes. Take the afternoon for yourself perusing the various offerings!

Try Out A Group Cooking Class

Looking for things to do on your own in London that blend fun and culinary flair?

Consider joining a group cooking class for a solo-friendly gastronomic adventure.

These classes cater to individual participants, allowing you to enhance your culinary skills in the company of like-minded individuals.

Engaging in a cooking class solo not only provides an opportunity to sharpen your kitchen prowess but also presents a chance to meet new people who share a love for good food.

So, if you’re looking for things to do in London by yourself, embark on a flavourful journey and discover the joy of creating delicious dishes alongside fellow cooking enthusiasts.

Explore One of London’s Parks

When compiling your list of things to do in London by yourself, don’t overlook the simple pleasure of exploring the city’s beautiful parks.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, finding peaceful things to do in London alone can be a refreshing experience. Whether it’s the iconic Hyde Park, the lush Regent’s Park, or the scenic Greenwich Park, each green oasis provides a peaceful retreat for solo adventurers.

Take a leisurely stroll, picnic, or simply unwind amidst the greenery – you won’t regret visiting one of London’s amazing parks.

Read the full article: 16 of The Best Parks in London

Watch A Matinée Show – Fun Things to Do Alone in London

When it comes to things to do in London alone, catching a matinée show is a fantastic option for solo entertainment.

Whether you have a penchant for West End musicals or prefer a thought-provoking play, London’s renowned theatres host a variety of matinée performances.

Watching a show alone allows you to choose your own genre and immerse yourself in the storyline without distractions, making it a perfect solo activity.

Take A Boat Tour

Exploring the Thames through a boat tour is an excellent choice among things to do in London by yourself.

The city’s iconic river weaves through historical landmarks, offering a unique perspective of London’s fascinating architecture.

Whether it’s a leisurely cruise or a narrated tour highlighting the city’s history, a solo boat adventure provides a tranquil escape on the water.

Top Tip: If you don’t have the budget for a Thames River cruise but still want to see the highlights from the water level, take the Uber Boat. This runs multiple times per hour and allows you to see all the best that London offers.

Visit One of London’s Famous Bookshops

For bookworms and literary enthusiasts exploring solo travel in London, a visit to one of the city’s famous bookshops is an absolute must.

Stores like Daunt Books, Foyles, and Hatchards house an extensive collection of books and exude an inviting atmosphere.

For me, exploring a new bookstore in London has the same feeling as wandering the supermarket isles abroad. It shouldn’t really be that fun, but it certainly is!

Read the full article: Where to Find the Best Bookshops in London

Take A Day Trip

While London offers an almost unlimited number of experiences, it also has many amazing day trips that can massively enhance your solo travel in London.

Escape the urban hustle and explore the picturesque countryside, historic towns, or charming seaside villages just a short train ride away.

Whether you’re interested in the scenic beauty of the Cotswolds, the historic charm of Oxford, or the coastal allure of Brighton, a day trip offers a refreshing change of scenery and adds an exciting dimension to your solo adventures in and around London.

Read the full article: 8 of The Best Day Tips From London

Try An Independent Cinema – Things to Do in London Alone at Night

Searching for things to do in London alone at night can be daunting! We don’t always want to be alone in unfamiliar areas after dark (especially as women).

Going to the cinema is a great activity for solo travellers in London. However, let’s be honest: Heading to the major names can be a little boring. An independent cinema provides the perfect answer!

Going solo to an independent cinema allows you to explore cinematic gems, support local filmmakers, and immerse yourself in the diverse world of cinema.

Whether you choose a cosy screening room in Soho or a vintage cinema in East London, attending an independent film screening is a fantastic way to blend entertainment with the charm of solo travel in London.