If you’ve ever dreamed of navigating the capital’s bustling streets on your own terms, you’ve come to the right place.
We’re rounding up some of the best things to do solo in London and inspire you on your next city break. From soaking in the electric city vibes to exploring the city’s favourite hidden gems, get ready to embrace the thrill of solo travel with our ultimate solo traveller’s guide to London.
Let’s dive in!
1. Wander around the breathtaking Tate Modern
Looking to soak up some art and culture on your solo travels? Tate Modern is a must-visit. Situated directly opposite St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Millennium Bridge, the former Bankside Power Station has been the influential and continually evolving Tate Modern art gallery since 1994.
While some exhibitions, including Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms, require booking a spot and a small entry fee, entry to Tate Modern is free! There are plenty of spectacular exhibits and pieces to discover, dating back to the early 20th century.
2. Explore Hyde Park by e-bike
Keen cyclist? Whether you’re constantly on the saddle or eager to experience the capital from a new perspective, taking an e-bike ride through Hyde Park is the perfect way to enjoy a sunny day in London. With various e-bike stations nearby, including Santander, Forest and Lime, your cycling adventure is just a moment away.
As one of the best parks in the city for cyclists, Hyde Park offers plenty of cycle paths featuring fountains, memorials, ponds and statues en route. Please note, cyclists must adhere to cycle tracks throughout Hyde Park as fines may apply.
3. Devour your way through Borough Market
Experience London’s exciting food scene with a trip to Borough Market – the go-to foodie spot for a hungry solo traveller. With over one hundred stalls and restaurants, Borough Market is one of the UK’s most famous food markets.
Boasting heavenly food creations, including fluffy Taiwanese bao buns, handmade bakery delights and stunning Persian dishes to name a few, Borough Market has something for everyone.
Planning a solo street food crawl across the capital? Check our guide to the best food markets in London here.
4. Experience the movies at an independent cinema
Solo cinema dates have become hugely popular in the last couple of years. Often seen as a daunting experience, solo cinema trips are a great way to spend quality time with yourself and an excellent form of self-care. Plus, you don’t have to share the popcorn!
And in London, you can make your solo cinema experience even more memorable with a trip to an independent cinema. Check out the BFI Southbank in Waterloo to discover a wide selection of classic, independent and non-English language films. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more mainstream, check out the Prince Charles Cinema in Leicester Square.
5. Take a street art tour through Shoreditch
The vibrant East London neighbourhood of Shoreditch is always buzzing with creativity. Renowned for its lively nightlife, vintage shops and plenty of independent market stalls, Shoreditch is also filled with fascinating and constantly evolving street art.
By jumping on a free guided tour, you can truly explore all of Shoreditch’s artistic gems whilst getting to know other fellow street art enthusiasts. Don’t forget to keep your eyes out for Banksy’s famous ‘Guard Dog and His Masters Voice’ during your expedition.
6. Peruse the enchanting Daunt Books
Looking for things to do solo in London on a rainy day? Reconnect with the joy of reading during your solo travels with a trip to Daunt Books Marylebone. However, this is not your average London bookshop…
With an abstract new way of book hunting, Daunt Books has become a prime UK location for #BookTok enthusiasts. Discover diverse book collections organised by country rather than alphabetically. So whether you’re casually browsing or on the lookout for your next juicy read, Daunt Books is a great place to start.
7. Catch a West End show
There’s simply no better way to warm your heart than indulging in one of London’s splendid West End shows. Step into a world of dazzling lights, captivating performances, and unforgettable stories in London’s iconic West End district.
Whether you’re craving 80s nostalgia or historical musicals, London’s West End is a treasure trove of theatrical gems. Check out our picks for the best upcoming West End shows here!
8. Join one of London’s trendy supper clubs
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London’s supper club scene is taking off! Described as a culinary adventure waiting to be explored, supper clubs are perfect for those solo travelling and seeking a unique dining experience.
Combining exciting cuisines, like-minded people and a homely, cosy dinner party atmosphere, London’s supper clubs are redefining the capital’s dining experiences. With regular nights each month, the capital’s favourite supper clubs include The Occasional Dining Club, Gooce Supper Club and &Ginger Supper Club.
9. See the sights along the Embankment
We can’t make an ultimate solo guide to the capital without mentioning some London sightseeing. From Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square, there are plenty of historical and cultural landmarks to explore. But if you’re eager to get your steps in, we’d recommend taking a walk along the Thames Embankment.
Starting from the Embankment underground station walking east, this river walk features a wide array of London landmarks. Get ready to spot the London Eye, Shard, Somerset House, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the River Thames of course.
Stay nearby
While most tourists flock to Regent or Oxford Street for a cheeky shopping spree in London, we’d recommend checking out the colourful shopping hub of Carnaby Street instead.
Discover a tranquil oasis in the heart of west London at the Kyoto Garden. Nestled within the lush surroundings of Holland Park, this enchanting Japanese garden is a haven of serenity and natural beauty. As a solo traveller, the Kyoto Garden is the perfect escape to take a quiet moment of reflection or simply soak in the picturesque landscapes.
Get ready to dive into London’s diverse thrifting scene at the Hackney Flea Market. Filled with unique finds and hidden gems, this lively market offers the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, surrounded by the buzzing energy of artisans, collectors, and friendly locals.
One of London’s favourite hidden gems, Pavillion Road in Chelsea is an artisan food and shopping hub with a cosy English village atmosphere. Taking a stroll down Pavillion Road is an unexpected getaway from the busy streets of central London.
Located in east London, Old Spitalfields Market is one of the capital’s oldest markets. This lively maze of independent market stalls features everything from handmade crafts to one-of-a-kind fashion pieces and delectable bites.
Embark on a solo adventure through Columbia Road Flower Market’s blossoming paradise. This beautiful floral utopia is a sensory feast for anyone seeking a burst of colour and fragrance.
