Solo Trip to London: 15 of the Best Things To Do Alone in London
Planning a solo trip to London? This travel guide will help you find fun things to do alone in London, from palace tours and high tea to museums, parks, and more.
London is one of my absolute favorite cities to visit – from the iconic palaces and cathedrals to the vibrant theater scene to markets full of delicious food. If you’re planning to solo travel to London, this guide will help you find all the best things to do and offer practical tips for your trip.
I’ve visited the city several times over the years, including solo London trips, and these are the activities I think everyone should consider for their first time in the U.K. capital.
The list below of the best things to do in London solo has a little bit of everything, including free art museums, historic castles and churches, cool shopping districts, and gorgeous skyline views. If you want to squeeze it all in, I recommend spending at least 4 days in London, or a little longer to add on day trips from London.
Things to Know Before Visiting London
Should You Solo Travel to London?
The capital of the UK makes such a great first destination for a solo trip. Since it’s a popular vacation destination, there are always lots of other people around, which makes me feel safer when I’m wandering alone.
London solo female travelers should take the same general precautions as needed anywhere, including keeping someone back home informed of your plans, being cautious and aware of your surroundings (especially at night), getting travel insurance for emergencies, and not oversharing that you’re by yourself.
If you want to make friends during a solo trip to London, you might want to consider staying in a hostel with female dorms, which tend to attract other friendly solo travelers.
The ultimate London bucket list
What is the Best Time to Visit London?
The best time of year to visit London depends on your priorities and expectations. Thanks to the warm weather and school holidays, summer is the most popular season, which also means higher prices on accommodations and more crowds.
Spring and fall are a bit less busy with pleasant weather that typically averages in the 50s for daytime highs. Spring can be rainy, but you also get longer days to spend sightseeing. The end of fall brings Christmas decor and markets around the city.
A winter visit can be fun if you come for the holiday season, while January and February tend to have much lower crowds and cheaper hotel prices thanks to the chilly weather.
How to get around London solo?
The city offers an extensive public transportation network that makes it easy to solo travel in London. The iconic London Underground, often referred to as the Tube offers a network of lines that provide quick and efficient travel across the capital. Even if you’re not used to riding a subway, the color-coded maps are easy to read and you can also use Google maps to help figure out the best route between your destinations.
Additionally, a bus system covers every corner of the city and offers a more scenic way to explore its streets. This can take a little longer to get around than the Tube since you’ll be contending with street traffic, but bus stops are more frequent and the fare is a little cheaper.
And if you prefer, taxis and ride-share services like Uber are widely available.
London Solo Travel Pass
Things To Do in London Solo
London City Tour
One of the best solo things to do in London at the beginning of your trip is to take a tour around the city. This is the perfect way to acclimate yourself to your new surroundings and preview some things that you might want to do later.
If you’re looking to make new friends on your trip, this can also be a chance to meet other tourists.
Buckingham Palace
The official residence of the monarch in London, Buckingham Palace was built in 1703 and is a popular attraction for tourists who flock to see the towering gold-tipped gates and the Changing of the Guard.
Outside, St. James Park and Green Park offer a peaceful spot for a stroll around a lake and lawns, with benches to sit and read or people watch.
Watching the Changing of the Guard is also a must for first-timers to London. The ceremony takes place in the morning every couple of days, and you’ll want to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Westminster Abbey
One of the most famous churches around the world, Westminster Abbey was founded more than a thousand years ago. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Gothic building that stands today opened in the 1200s and is used for coronations and royal weddings.
Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is one of my favorite spots to people-watch in the city since it always seems to be buzzing with activity. Tourists, street performers, and the occasional protesters gather in the public space notable for its twin fountains and the Nelson’s Column adorned with lions.
The square fronts the National Gallery, which is full of artworks from the 13th to 19th centuries. The Georgian St. Martin-in-the-Fields church is also here and hosts afternoon concerts.
Big Ben and Houses of Parliament
One of the most recognizable landmarks in London, the Big Ben clock tower is a must-see while you’re in the city. It’s part of the Palace of Westminster, which hosts the Houses of Parliament. You can take a tour with a guide or sit in a debate in the House of Lords or House of Commons.
The best views of Big Ben, though, are from Westminster Bridge or the South Bank of the River Thames. The bridge can get pretty crowded, so I recommend crossing to the South Bank by foot and heading down to the river walkway opposite the London Eye, where the pedestrians thin out.
St. Paul’s Cathedral
I always love stopping in at St. Paul’s Cathedral during a solo trip to London. The current structure with its towering dome was built in the 17th century after the Great Fire of London, but a church has stood on this site since the 7th century. The steps in front are where Mary Poppins serenades the pigeons in the song “Feed the Birds” from the classic musical movie.
Borough Market
From fresh produce and deli meats to rows of cheese, jams, and breads, the Borough Market overflowers with delicious things to eat. You can pop in to grab a quick snack or eat lunch at one of the hot food stands that dish out global cuisine. The market is one of London’s oldest and largest, dating back about 1,000 years.
Tower Bridge
That elaborate castle-like structure with two turrets over the River Thames – that’s Tower Bridge. Many people mix it up with London Bridge, a rather plain site just to the west.
Tower of London
The Tower of London is one of the classic things to do on your first solo trip to London. The medieval castle on the River Thames was established some 1,000 years ago and has housed and protected royals over the centuries. It’s also home to the Crown Jewels and Royal Armouries.
Theater Scene
Catching a show is one of my favorite things to do in the city, whether I’m traveling in London alone or with friends. The West End near Piccadilly Circus is London’s answer to Broadway, packed with old-timey theaters and award-winning shows.
London Lookouts
Getting a view of the city skyline is one of the best solo things to do in London. There are a few different places you can do this.
London Eye
The giant observation wheel on the River Thames is the London Eye, which opened in 2000 and quickly became a city icon. Pods with windows all around offer 360-degree views of the Westminster district and beyond on a 30-minute ride.
Sky Garden
Dubbed “London’s highest public garden,” Sky Garden is a restaurant and public space in the old city. The skyscraper offers panoramic views and lush greenery from a glass dome at the top of the building. Free tickets can be reserved in advance to secure an entry time.
The Shard
The Shard is one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in the city and offers some of the best views in London. At over 1,000 feet tall, it houses offices, restaurants, a hotel, and viewing platforms, including an open-air deck on floor 72 with sweeping panoramas. You need a ticket for the observatories, but restaurants and bars on the upper floors also offer fantastic vistas.
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of my favorite outdoorsy things to do in London solo. The massive green space has lawns, walking and biking trails, sports courts, and rowboats on the Serpentine lake.
There are also tons of monuments and fountains to discover as you explore. The Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is also held here during the holiday season.
Kensington Palace and Gardens
Located adjacent to Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens holds the Serpentine Gallery with free art displays, and the Albert Memorial, a gilded Gothic tribute erected by Queen Victoria.
London Museums
Not only does London offer nearly 200 museums, but many are free. Museum hopping is such a fun thing to do in London alone.
The British Museum
The British Museum is home to an expansive collection of artifacts from across the globe. From the Rosetta Stone to the Elgin Marbles, the museum's exhibits span centuries and continents. General admission is free, but it’s best to book a ticket in advance to guarantee entry.
Natural History Museum
The wonders of the natural world are on full display at the Natural History Museum, where you’ll encounter everything from massive dinosaur skeletons to rare gemstones. Outside, the peaceful Wildlife Garden presents a collection of native fauna and flora. Located in South Kensington, the free museum is part of a trio (along with the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum) on Exhibition Road.
Victoria and Albert Museum
A celebration of art, design, and craftsmanship, the Victoria and Albert Museum is a cultural haven in South Kensington with free admission and tours. With a collection of over 2 million objects, the museum houses a diverse array of artifacts, from exquisite textiles and fashion to ceramics and glass. Located in South Kensington near the Royal Albert Hall and the Albert Memorial, it’s named after the famous regal pair of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
The National Gallery
Located at Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is a treasure trove of timeless masterpieces from Western Europe. With works spanning from the 13th to the 19th century, the gallery offers a chronological journey through the evolution of art, from the grandeur of Van Gogh to the elegance of Da Vinci. Entry is free and you can book admission in advance.
National Portrait Gallery
Capturing a piece of British history through the faces that helped shape it, the National Portrait Gallery stands as a unique tribute to portraiture. Located just off Trafalgar Square near The National Gallery, the museum houses an extensive collection of headshots, ranging from medieval monarchs to modern celebrities. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
Tate Modern
Situated along the banks of the River Thames, the Tate Modern is housed in a repurposed power station. The free museum showcases an extensive collection of contemporary and international artworks, from avant-garde installations to groundbreaking sculptures. There’s also a sweeping view of the London skyline from the terrace on the 10th floor.
Shopping
You can’t solo travel to London and not do a bit of shopping! The city’s retail scene packs in everything from high-end department stores to historic covered markets to eclectic boutiques. Below are a few top picks, but I recommend checking out this list of shopping destinations, too.
Leadenhall Market, situated in the heart of the financial district, is a Victorian-era covered market known for its stunning architecture and upscale boutiques. Covent Garden in the West End brims with street performers, upscale restaurants, and the covered Apple Market artisanal stalls. Camden, known for its alternative and edgy vibe, boasts a bustling market where visitors can find unique fashion items, crafts, and eclectic treasures.
For those seeking luxury, Harrods stands as an iconic destination in Knightsbridge, renowned for its opulent displays and exclusive selections. I always love popping in to grab some chocolates or teas when I visit. Fortnum and Mason, with its rich heritage, offers a refined shopping experience, specializing in premium goods.
The bustling zones of Oxford Street and Regent Street, lined with flagship stores and renowned brands, cater to mainstream retail with a blend of street fashion and department stores.
Notting Hill
If you have a few days to solo travel London, I recommend spending an afternoon in Notting Hill. Made famous by the eponymous Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant rom-com, the area is known for its pretty pastel houses and the Portobello Road Market, where you’ll find vintage fashion and antiques.
The annual Notting Hill Carnival in summer nods to the Caribbean roots of the neighborhood with parades, colorful costumes, and calypso music.