Trying to Find Interesting Things To Do Alone in London?
I’m a local here in London and I can help! After living in London for over a decade, there have been more than a few times that I have had a day off, but all my friends seem to be busy. So, I’m forced to go out and explore the city on my own.
But that’s led me to find some awesome solo activities that are great for people traveling to London alone!
There are actually lots of fun solo activities to try in The Big Smoke.
From visiting secret graffiti street tunnels and vintage cinemas to exploring the best food markets, there are plenty of epic things to do in London by yourself.
If you’re looking for things to do alone in London? I’ve put together the ultimate list of the best things to on a solo day in London.
Whether you’re a lover of good cuisines, cultural diversity, history, and picturesque locations, or you simply want to explore the city you live in, London has lots in store for you.
Best Things To Do in London Alone
If you’re wondering how to spend a day by yourself, here are some of the best things to do in London on your own.
1. Visit Columbia Road Flower Market
There’s nowhere as unique and atmospheric to go shopping for flowers, house plants, and seeds as Columbia Road Flower Market.
It has been in the East End of London since the 19th century and is a Sunday-only market in London.
The sight of hundreds of flower varieties, the scent of lavender, mint, or jasmine as you stroll past the gauntlet of blossoms — nothing feels as great.
Its unique vibe is aided by the distinctive shouts of stallholders and the buskers playing music at different ends of the narrow street leading to the flower market, creating an upbeat, cheerful feeling all around.
READ MORE | BEST DAY TRIPS FROM LONDON
Visiting the Columbia Road Flower Market is one of the many delightful things to do in London by yourself on a Sunday. It is open from 8:00 to about 15:00. If you want to know more about it, check out my guide on the Columbia Road Flower Market.
2. Catch a Lecture at the School of Life
I love the School of Life in London. I’ve been to a few of their classes and can honestly say that they will stimulate and expand your mind and thought process.
The venue hosts different speakers who discuss a variety of subjects, including culture, work, modern dating, relationships, stress, and so much more.
The lectures and creative workshops here are sure to cultivate and increase your emotional intelligence.
Their youtube channel is also great to watch, and their animated videos exploring Eastern and Western philosophy will not only teach you new things but also help guide you on how you can see things differently.
Visiting the School of Life won’t make you feel alone in London as the staff there is so lovely, and you’ll be too engrossed in what you are learning to even worry about being by yourself.
3. Visit London Museums and Galleries
If you’re a history buff or art lover wondering what to do by yourself in London, take a trip to one of the remarkable museums or galleries in the area.
Create your own London museum bucket list for exhibitions you want to see. So you can plan a strategic route that takes you through some of the world’s most stunning museums in London, including the V&A (for fashion lovers), British Museum (for architecture lovers), and Natural History Museum (for budding zoologists), and Tate Britain.
Even if you’re not a Museum person, the beautiful architecture and artifacts held in these prestigious institutions will definitely appeal to you.
The museums are a great place to wander around if you ever visit London alone.
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4. But Don’t Forget The British Museum
The British Museum is a historical treasure trove, renowned for a vast collection of ancient artifacts spanning centuries of civilisation.
Boasting over 8 million pieces from every corner of the globe, the museum provides an unparalleled journey through time. It houses world-famous cultural objects such as the Rosetta Stone and Parthenon Marbles, as well as numerous temporary exhibitions.
Take a day or two to wander through the British Museum if you’re traveling in London. My favourite exhibits are in the is the Early Egypt Room 64.
You can see technology evolve and how the social order fuses together to create a strong society.
5. Sip on Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is a beloved institution in the city of London, and it’s something that may slip your mind if you don’t make intentional plans to do so.
Even if you aren’t a big fan of tea, you might be surprised. Afternoon tea in London is high-quality and there are more options than you can get at your local Starbucks.
The best way to enjoy afternoon tea is with an afternoon tea bus tour. This unique experience combines the beauty of London’s sights with a classic cup of afternoon tea.
You’ll be guided to local hotspots as you sip English tea and enjoy traditional snacks like scones and finger sandwiches in an iconic double-decker bus.
6. Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens is an oasis of natural beauty in the heart of London. The gardens are London’s largest UNESCO World Heritage Site, with 326 acres of gardens, 3 art galleries, a treetop walkway, and a gorgeous Palace.
They are located in Richmond, just 30 minutes from central London by train.
My favorite building at Kew Gardens is the Palm House, a stunning glass structure that houses a rainforest of tropical plants from some of the most threatened environments in the world.
Explore the gardens and learn about conservation and plant habitats while feeding your senses with the sights and fragrances of mesmerising plants.
7. Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is one of the most iconic landmarks in London. It’s a very busy area of London and often serves as a meeting point for friends, family, and tour groups before they begin exploring the city!
The square is dominated by Nelson’s Column, which stands 47 meters high and is flanked by four bronze lion statues. It’s also home to the National Gallery and many other famous landmarks.
The square is usually full of activity at all hours of the day and night, from impressive street performers to delicious food stalls, and it’s one of the best places for people-watching in the city.
It’s also conveniently located near other popular sites like Covent Garden, Chinatown, and Soho.
8. Visit the Historical Churchill War Rooms
The Churchill War Rooms are a highly acclaimed historical museum in London. Situated in the heart of Westminster, they provide an extensive insight into the tumultuous times during World War II and commemorate Winston Churchill’s leadership.
The rooms were built deep underground to protect from German bombing raids, and today they form something of a time capsule documenting Britain’s wartime history.
Here, you can explore the Cabinet War Rooms and Churchill’s bedroom from the 1940s, as well as a variety of interactive exhibits that provide an excellent insight into this important era.
Visitors can also take part in guided tours of the museum and hear stories about Churchill and his influence on Britain’s wartime efforts. This is one of the more unusual things to do in London, but if you love history, you’ll really enjoy it.
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Exciting and Interesting Solo Tours In London
9. Self-Guided Walking Tours
If you have wondered what to do in London alone, then look no further than a self-guided walking tour. It’s one of the best ways to see several landmarks and must-visit sites when exploring London alone.
There are plenty of exciting things to see, and if you only have 24 hours in London, a walking tour is a great way to make the most of your time.
You can go for a wander along the River Thames. Here you’ll have a chance to admire famous London attractions such as the Houses of Parliament and Elizabeth Tower as well as catch a glimpse of the iconic dome of St Paul’s Cathedral.
You can wander around Notting Hill and admire the rainbow-coloured houses and filming locations of British rom-coms. And there are plenty more fun activities in Notting Hill to try.
If you are a die-hard shopaholic, then wander along Carnaby Street, Covent Garden, and down Bond Street, Regent Street, and Oxford Street.
There are so many things to see, making a walking tour one of the best solo activities London has to offer.
10. Take an Official Walking Tour of the City of London
For those who have the budget for a tour guide, there are lots of more official walking tours in the City of London.
When you book a spot on a London walking tour, you’ll not only explore London in all of its glory, but you’ll also have an expert guide and can interact with others.
But there’s no need to make friends. A guided walking tour is great if you have a day in London and want to make the most of it. As these tours usually take around 3 – 4 hours.
Check here for ticket prices for one of the best walking tours in London.
So, if you’re wondering what to do in London by yourself, why not take a walking tour and admire the stunning surroundings?
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11. Take a London Street Art Tour
London’s rich cultural history is much more than just the galleries and theatres that celebrate its treasures.
Street art is one of the most unique offerings in the city as it offers visitors an opportunity to connect with the city’s creative heartbeat and the great minds of the locals.
So, if you are ever wondering what to do alone in London? Then book one of the amazing street art tours in London.
Admiring the street art in Shoreditch or Camden Street on tour is one of the most delightful activities.
I have done two street art tours in London and loved them both. I learned so much about street art in East London and even got to find street art that was in plain sight.
Tip: If you’re looking for more fun adventures in the East End, check out my guide on the best activities in East London.
I mean stuff I walked past daily (my gym is in Shoreditch, so I practically live in the area). Seriously, guys, there was valuable street art on poles in Shoreditch that I didn’t even know existed until I did a street art tour.
Whether you’re budget conscious or you’re a lover of unique photography, exploring London’s street art is a great way to learn more and connect with the city’s history.
Check here for ticket prices to some of the best street art tours in London.
12. Take a River Cruise Along the Thames
Baffled by what to do in London today alone? Take a cruise along the Thames to Greenwich. It’s something you can do in London no matter the weather or season.
A cruise along the Thames gives you a whole new perspective on the city of London.
Taking a cruise along the Thames to Greenwich gives you the best vantage point of this unique river and some of the historical and top sights in London.
You’ll see past spectacular sights, including loads of scientific discovery, naval innovation, and the regular life in London experienced by its residents throughout the ages.
Cruising along the Thames River to Greenwich or racing down the Thames on a speed boat are just a few of the entertaining activities to do in London, especially on a lovely summer’s day.
Check ticket prices here for Westminster to Greenwich cruise, speed boat tours through the city of London and a sparkling sunset cruise on the Thames or London Eye river cruise on the Thames.
13. Take a Food Tour
Still wondering what to do in London on your own? Take a food tour!
What better way to discover London and all of its glory than to eat your way through it? You’ll be introduced to the city’s tucked-away spots and unique attractions and hear tales of its rich heritage, sampling its local specialties along the way.
This is a great way to explore new places you never knew existed. Taking a food tour is one of the most fun solo activities in London. I’ve done a few food tours on my own in other countries and to this day, they are some of my best travel memories.
Check here for ticket prices to some of the best food tours in London.
14. Take a Cooking Class
There are a bunch of cooking classes in London where you can learn how to make exquisite dishes from an experienced chef.
Whether you already love to cook or just want to have something on hand to impress guests at a dinner party, a cooking class is a fun experience!
London has options for every kind of dish, but I think this Asian Cooking Class + Roast Dinner is one of the most interesting. It teaches you how to prepare a classic English Roast, as well as something a little more exotic!
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15. Learn Something New (Painting, Dance, Etc.)
If you’re looking to meet new people and learn something new, why not take a class in something that interests you?
London is filled with opportunities for lifelong learning, from pottery workshops to dance and Private DJ classes.
You can even learn how to make a Fascinator Hat with a local fashion designer. Taking a unique class can be a great way to connect with locals and other travellers in London. It’s also an enriching experience that will make your time in London even more memorable.
16. Harry Potter Tour
One of the most touristy attractions in London is Platform 9 ¾ at Kings Cross Station, where hoards of tourist joust to take photos pushing a trolley through the wall.
Instead of just taking a photo, I recommend a visit to Warner Bros Studio for the Making of Harry Potter Tour.
Getting a behind-the-scenes look at the movies, including all the special effects and animatronics used to bring these characters to life is a great way to relive the magical world of Harry Potter.
You’ll be able to board the Hogwarts Express, walk down Diagon Alley, and even try some butterbeer.
17. Do a London Pub Crawl
London is known for its abundance of pubs, so a pub crawl is one of the best activities in the city.
A pub crawl involves visiting several different pubs in one evening, typically starting at one end of town and slowly making your way to the other.
You may feel uncomfortable going out to the pub as a solo traveler in London, but luckily, there are guided pub crawls where you will naturally meet other travelers and have safe transportation between historic London Pubs.
Whether you’re looking for a casual drink and conversation or an all-out pub crawl experience, London’s pubs offer something for everyone.
Shows and Entertainment in London
18. Going Out Alone in London to Catch a Movie at the Cinema
A trip to the cinema is one of my favourite things to do solo in London. With interesting services and the unique designs of some of the cinemas, going to the cinema in London is an indulgent experience you’ll be dying to do on your own.
You can take a trip to the luxurious 100-year-old Electric Cinema in Shoreditch. Or visit Somerset House for their Film4 Summer Screen series for the ultimate cinematic experience under the starry skies.
Other amazing cinema venues and open-air cinemas include Shoreditch’s Queen of Hoxton, the Bussey Building Peckham, Backyard Cinema in Camden, and the retro-style Prince Charles Cinema.
19. Take in a Matinee Show at the Theatre
A matinee is an afternoon performance at the theatre, and they are typically available two or three times weekly. These are usually relatively empty too, so it’s one of the best things to do in London for introverts.
Matinee tickets are also cheaper than usual theatre tickets and a great way of enjoying a play or music that you’ve been wanting to see without being distracted by your chatterbox friends.
I visit the Matinee alone when I am stressed and just want to give my mind a break, and I swear it’s one of the best things to do alone. You get a chance to escape from reality.
So next time you’re thinking about what to do on your own in London during the day, try a matinee show. If you’re aged between 16 and 25, you can often pick up theatre tickets at a discount.
20. Visit the Southbank
If you’re ever wondering where to go alone in London? Look no further than the South Bank. The south side of the Thames is buzzing with activity and has loads of amazing things to do in London.
The top attractions here include the Southbank Centre, the SEA LIFE London, The London Dungeon, and the Coca-Cola London Eye.
The South Bank is one of the best places to go by yourself, and it has a fantastic range of dining venues, arts, and entertainment.
You’ll probably be tempted to spend money on a thing or two in South Bank, but just wandering around the neighbourhood is one of the best free things to do in London.
21. Watch a Musical
If you’re looking for a unique and entertaining way to spend time on a solo trip to London, you can’t go wrong with grabbing tickets for a musical.
The West End is one of the most famous performing arts districts in the world, hosting some of the best Broadway-style plays and musicals in the world.
Whether you’re in the mood for classics like ‘Wicked‘ and ‘Chicago The Musical,’ or you can see modern masterpieces like ‘The Book of Mormon’ and ‘Hamilton’! There are always a few great musicals playing in London.
The West End Musicals are among the best things to do in Covent Garden, so come explore the iconic area for the afternoon and finish the evening off with a show.
22. Shakespeare’s Globe (Globe Theatre)
The Shakespeare’s Globe is a replicate of the original theatre that burnt down in 1613 during a performance of Henry VII, and the open-air venue will make you feel transported back to the time of Shakespeare.
At the theatre itself, you can watch an outdoor performance of one of his classic plays or take part in a guided tour that offers a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into putting on such grand productions.
There are even workshops available, from acting classes to composing and even sword fighting techniques.
It’s also very easy to get to from anywhere in the city (Located on South Bank near Tate Modern and Borough Market).
23. Visit Tate Modern
The Tate Modern is an iconic art museum located on the banks of the River Thames in Southbank, London. It houses a spectacular collection of over 70,000 works from renowned European and American artists from 1900 to the present day.
Visitors can explore stimulating temporary exhibitions featuring works from major figures such as Picasso, Klee, and Delaunay.
The Tate Modern is also home to a fun café that offers stunning views of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Millennium Bridge. You can have coffee, a light meal, or some authentic London afternoon tea.
Shopping Alone in London
24. Visit Daunt Books and Liberia
A bookstore is one of the places to go alone in London to get absorbed in a good book But don’t make it any old book shop, make it Daunt’s Books or Liberia.
You will find many amazing bookstores in London that would definitely sweep you away with the pages of their books. Daunt Books and Liberia are among the top two bookstores in the city to visit.
Though Daunt Books has stores in many locations across London, the shop at Marylebone is particularly impressive as it boasts an extensive collection of travel-related publications and has an Instagrammable staircase leading to the second floor.
Located in Spitalfields, Liberia is another massively impressive bookstore that deserves a place in your bucket list of must-visits in London.
The bookstore is home to books of all types with plenty of seating areas which allows visitors to blend reading with healthy conversations if they choose. Liberia also has a section dedicated to “enchantment for the disenchanted”.
So, if you feel let down in any way, you can rest assured you’ve found the right place.
READ MORE | 30 TOP THINGS TO DO IN LONDON
25. Visit Portobello Road
Portobello Road is located in the heart of the chic Notting Hill and is known for its unique vintage offerings and collectibles as it is home to the largest antique market in London.
Though Portobello Road is great for a wander at any time of the day, Saturdays are the busiest. Portobello Road is one of those great places to visit alone in London.
26. Tour the Best Markets in London
London has some of the best markets and specifically some of the best food markets in the world. Only a few cities around the world can rival London’s unique cuisine scene.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, homemade treats, or delicious cakes and sweets, a solo trip to some of the best food markets in London should be top of your list of things to do on your own in London.
Though the city has many well-known food markets, Borough Market is the most famous, thanks to its over 1,000 years of rich history.
Other places to go on your own include the Brick Lane Market (a Sunday market in London), Greenwich Market and South Bank Food Market (one of the best street food markets in London).
Turning up to any of these markets with an empty stomach is always a great idea, as you’d definitely go home happy, satisfied, and fulfilled. Spending the day roaming through a market is one of the coolest solo London activities.
27. Borough Market
Borough Market is a foodie’s paradise located in London, a short walk away from the Shard and London Bridge Station in Southbank.
Established over 1,000 years ago, it’s one of the oldest food markets in London and features over 100 stalls that offer an array of global cuisines including French confit duck sandwiches, Ethiopian stir-fried stews, and Jamaican curries.
To get the full experience of Borough Market, I recommend doing a food tour of the market to learn more about its history as well as sample some of its delicious offerings.
Afterward, take your food and bits to Neal’s Yard Dairy and Bread Ahead for a riverside picnic before heading off to the other things to do alone in London, like the famous Tate Modern.
28. Go Window Shopping
London is a shopper’s paradise, offering an array of stores for every taste. Whether you’re looking for luxury items or unique finds, London has something to offer everyone.
But even if you don’t have a huge shopping budget on your solo trip to London, it’s still fun to go window-shopping and see all the cute stores.
For the best shopping experience, head to Westfield London which features over 300 stores, a movie theatre, and plenty of restaurants. Oxford Street is another super popular option, with hundreds of big-name retailers that stay open late into the night.
And don’t forget about Burlington Arcade – one of the world’s first shopping arcades – where you can find small designers and pop-up cafés as well as luxury brands along a beautiful walking street.
29. Vintage Shopping on Brick Lane
Brick Lane is one of the few places I’d never want to leave off a London itinerary. It’s located in east London, between Spitalfields and Shoreditch, two of the city’s most vibrant and eclectic neighbourhoods.
The main attraction at Brick Lane is its immense street market. Every Sunday, hordes of people come to hawk antiques, vintage clothes, and even handmade crafts. You can find rare gems here that you won’t find anywhere else.
But you’ll find tons of great coffee, galleries, and some of the best Vintage shops and thrift stores in all of England.
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, here are the best Brick Lane Vintage shops.
Free Things to Do Alone in London
30. Go on a Photo Walk in London
A travel buddy is great, but you won’t need one to admire the city’s incredible views, especially if you’re going to London alone first time.
Throughout the City of London, you’ll find lots of astonishing rooftop views which can be best enjoyed under the golden skies. If you’re a fan of history, visit the Monument to the Great Fire of London.
If you’re looking to give yourself a special treat, then head to the top of the Shard, which was once Europe’s tallest building, for incredible views. This is one of the most fun things to do alone in London.
If you want to learn some tips about capturing London from fellow Londoners (London Instagrammers and street photographers), then check out meetup.com or IGersLondon to see when they are holding their next London meet-up and photo walk.
31. Join a Saturday Morning Parkrun
The park run in London is a simple concept: turn up every Saturday morning at 9 am in the UK’s parks and walk, jog, or run 5km.
The idea behind this concept came to fruition in Bushy Park, London in 2004. It grew really fast and with 47 different Parkruns throughout London today. There is no better way to kickstart your weekend than with a run.
READ MORE | THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING LONDON
32. Visit Famous Streets in London
Visiting many of the iconic streets in London is one of the coolest things to do in London solo.
London is rife with lots of historic streets where iconic events have taken place. While some are known for political reasons, others are famous shopping destinations.
These streets are steeped in history and remain relevant even today. Some of the streets that will take you down the history lane include Downing Street, Abbey Road, Oxford Street, Brick Lane, Carnaby Street, Bond Street, Portobello Road, and Piccadilly.
If you’re trying to lower your solo trip to London cost, the city’s famous streets are absolutely free, so it will help.
Tip: For more popular roads to visit, read my guide about the most famous streets in London.
33. Visit London Mews
London has a small number of village-like secret alleyways, tiny streets, and cobbled passages carefully hidden in plain sight.
These hidden locations are known as London Mews. Tucked away and unique, these mews are some of London’s prettiest streets, so you won’t want to pass up a chance to check them out on a solo trip to the capital.
Some of the city’s best mews include Kynance Mews, Bathurst Mews, and Holland Park Mews.
Once a place for stabling horses, London Mews properties have now been converted into highly coveted, multi-million-dollar homes as they are well-steeped in history and provide a quiet atmosphere, away from London’s typical busy atmosphere.
Tip: Read my Solo Female travel in London guide on the best mews streets in London.
Wandering around the beautiful London mews is one of the many fun things to do in London alone.
Are you done? Can we go somewhere else? Traveling alone in London means you can stop and take as many photos as you like of the mews streets and visit as many of them as you like without someone hurrying you.
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34. St Martin in the Fields
St Martin in the Fields is one of London’s oldest and most iconic churches. It dates back to 1724 and houses stunning artwork across its ceilings and walls adorned with artwork from the Neo-classical era.
The elegant church is more than just an architectural marvel, though. There’s a cafe with small plates for lunch, seasonal immersive exhibits, and regular musical performances/recitals in the Church’s crypt.
Outside, visitors can take a stroll around the peaceful square gardens or explore nearby galleries.
35. St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic and oldest landmarks in London, dating back to 1708 and it’s well worth visiting as a solo London traveller.
Built by Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London, this architectural marvel has survived 12 monarchs and two world wars.
It stands as a beacon of faith in the city centre and can be seen from as far as Greenwich Hill (although the best view is from the One Exchange rooftop terrace).
Visitors to St. Paul’s can explore the crypt, where famous figures like Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington are buried.
There are also guided tours available that offer a deeper insight into the cathedral’s history and artistry as well as musical performances in the crypt.
36. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is an iconic ceremony that draws in crowds from around the world. It’s a traditional British military practice that dates back hundreds of years and takes place daily throughout the year, barring certain holidays and exceptions due to weather.
The ceremony begins at 10:45 am when the old guard marches to the palace from Wellington Barracks on Birdcage Walk.
They are then joined by the new guard and march back to their barracks, marking a change in post for the duty of protecting the royal family.
The whole thing lasts about 45 minutes. If you’re alone, it’s significantly easier to find a good view of the ceremony. I recommend watching from Friary Courtyard at St. James’s Palace or The Wellington Barracks on the edge of St. James’ Park.
37. Spend Time in Bustling Piccadilly Circus
Bustling Piccadilly Circus is one of the most iconic spots in London and one of the busiest places in London at night. It is an energetic mix of bright lights, busy streets, and lots of people.
The center piece of Piccadilly Circus is the ornate Statue of Eros, a popular spot for tourists to take selfies. But surrounding the statue are endless restaurants, shopping opportunities, bars, and shoes. It’s also right next to the famous West End of London.
Whether you’re a Londoner or a tourist, Piccadilly Circus is one place you won’t want to miss.
38. Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel
Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel (also known as Graffiti Tunnel) is one of London’s dopest street art locations after Banksy hosted the Cans Festival in 2008.
Tucked away underneath Waterloo Station, this 300-meter tunnel has been London’s largest graffiti tunnel and street art scenery since then.
The sheer number of free-for-all pieces offers excellent viewing for anyone that wants to see some of the most unique artworks. This is one of the coolest places to go to in London by yourself.
More Things to Do Alone in London
39. See the Best Views of London at Sky Garden
Want to really appreciate London’s panoramic views and unique skyline? Well, you do not need to shell out big bucks to do that, making it an affordable and often free solo London activity.
Get your camera ready; from outdoor viewpoints to scenic observation spots, many spots will help you appreciate the UK capital.
Greenwich Park (climb to the top of the hill in Greenwich Park), for instance, is a lovely spot with stunning city views, especially enjoyed in warmer months.
For a unique view of London, head to North Greenwich and take a ride on the Emirates Cable Car for around £5 (one-way) or £10 (round trip) for adults.
Here you’ll be able to see the reflections of the O2, the awe-inspiring lights of Canary Wharf, along with the Shard, St Paul’s, and the Sky Garden. Riding the Emirates Cable car is an amazing thing to do in London alone.
London Eye, Parliament Hill, and Duck and Waffle are also among the variety of options available to you.
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40. Crown Jewels at The Tower of London
The Crown Jewels are a particularly interesting thing to see at London Tower. They are a unique collection of 2300 diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds set in gold form that have been housed in the Tower since the 17th century.
The Tower of London is one of the most iconic sights in the city and a must-see for anyone spending time in the city.
The fortress has stood tall for over 900 years, and its walls have witnessed some of the most infamous moments in English history.
Within its walls, you can explore numerous torture chambers, secret passageways, and other artifacts. You can get in free with a London Pass (which also allows free visits to Westminster Abbey, Kensington Palace, and the Churchill War Rooms.
41. BFI’s Archives in the Mediatheque
Visiting the BFI’s Archives in the Mediatheque is a must for any film enthusiast. Located in central London, across the bridge from Trafalgar Square, the British Film Institute houses an extensive collection of over 85,000 films (both classic and contemporary) dating back to 1895.
The archives span multiple genres, from science fiction to comedy, and feature a range of formats such as 35mm and 16mm film.
You can sit in one of the private viewing booths and select from over 85,000 films. There are plenty of single booths, too, for people traveling alone in London.
42. Rent a Bike / Go Cycling
Cycling is a great way to explore London and its surroundings while also getting active!
You can find a bike hire to explore yourself or book a bike tour with a local guide. If you’d like a guided tour, here are a few of the highest-rated options in the city;
However, it’s also quite easy to find a bike hire in London. There are Santander Bikes all over the city, which cost just £2-4/hour to rent a bike for the afternoon. Some of the best places to cycle are Richmond Park and Regent’s Canal.
43. Read a Book at a Cafe
Another great thing to do while travelling alone in London is to grab a cappuccino and bury your nose in a book for the afternoon. After all, you’re not on anyone else’s schedule but your own!
One of my favourite coffee shops in London is Attendant Coffee Roasters. It’s a unique experience like no other.
This historically significant cafe was actually a public toilet in Victorian times but has been brilliantly repurposed into a coffee shop with eccentric decor.
But you’ll find so many other great cafés in London, specifically in the following neighbourhoods;
44. Have a Solo Picnic in one of London’s Many Parks
London is home to a few wonderful parks, and one of the best things to do alone in London is to grab some takeaway and have a picnic in the park.
Hyde Park is the biggest and most famous of the Royal Parks in London. The park is dotted with memorial features like the Diana Memorial Fountain, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain, and the Serpentine, as well as lots of green space and park benches.
Other Royal Parks to explore in London include Green Park, Greenwich Park, Richmond Park, Kensington Gardens, Bushy Park, St. James’s Park, Regent’s Park, and Primrose Hill.
So grab some snacks (or a delicious picnic basket) and relax in nature for the afternoon.
45. Check out Everything to Do in Greenwich
Greenwich is an area of London that is steeped in history and renowned for its cultural attractions and lively atmosphere.
The main highlight in Greenwich is the Cutty Sark, a swiftly-built tea clipper ship that has been preserved since it was built in 1869.
You can also explore the Painted Hall, National Maritime Museum, Royal Observatory, and the Queen’s House.
There are also some lovely cafés, restaurants, and pubs where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink after you finish sightseeing. It’s one of the places with things to do in London alone at night.
46. God’s Own Junkyard
God’s Own Junkyard is a unique and unusual art gallery located in East London. It is known for its vibrant and creative handmade neon signs, which have been used in various fashion shoots, movies such as Byzantium and Captain America, as well as old Soho sex-shop signage.
The gallery encompasses over 1,400 pieces of neon art and signs crafted at the God’s Own Junkyard workshop.
Visitors can explore this eclectic space in awe and then refresh themselves at the Rolling Scones Café located inside.
God’s Own Junkyard is one of the most offbeat places to visit in London for those looking for something unique to do alone in London.
47. Hang Out in Shoreditch
Shoreditch is a vibrant district of London located within the borough of Hackney. It’s full of life and another fun place to visit if you’re traveling alone in London.
The area is known for its hipster vibes with trendy independent coffee shops, clothing stores, jewellery shops, and street food stalls.
Shoreditch is also home to some of the best nightlife and restaurants in London, with places like Dark Sugars for amazing chocolate, Voodoo Rays for pizza, Shoreditch Dishoom for curry, Ace Hotel for cocktails, and Blues Kitchen for ribs.
If you feel like you’ve done everything there is to do in Central London, take a short ride on the tube to Shoreditch and you’ll have a full plate of possibilities.
Take a Solo Day Trip From London
A solo trip to London doesn’t have to be spent only in London after all. London remains one of the world’s most diverse cultural hubs and has loads of amazing things to do.
However, you could rightly want a change of environment, and the surrounding coast, villages, and cities in the UK are the ideal remedy.
48. Solo Day Trip to Stonehenge
Stonehenge is one of the most iconic landmarks in England and a great place to visit for a solo day trip from London. The standing stones have been around for over 5,000 years and attract thousands of visitors each year.
Taking a guided tour of Stonehenge allows you to explore its gorgeous English scenery and prehistoric Monument. You can explore the ancient site on your own or take an audio tour as well as learn about the history, mystery, and myth behind the stones.
Stonehenge is located just over 2 hours away from Central London. If you prefer not to take a guided tour and want to visit on your own time, you can take the train from London Paddington Station to Salisbury.
Once you arrive in Salisbury, there are plenty of local buses that take visitors directly to Stonehenge.
49. Solo Day Trip to The Cotswolds
For a peaceful day trip from London, take a solo journey to the beautiful Cotswolds. This picturesque region of England is known for its rolling hills, quaint villages and towns, as well as stunning countryside views.
The Cotswolds aren’t far from London, but it does require a full day to see the best villages.
I recommend booking a tour of the Cotswolds or you can rent a car in London, but avoid taking public transportation because it’s hard to get around and very time-consuming.
50. Solo Day Trip to Windsor
Windsor is about an hour’s travel journey from London. It boasts the title of the oldest and largest occupied castle on earth and is an emblem in British history.
Oh, and it’s the getaway residence of the Royal Family. A day trip to Windsor is the perfect way to immerse yourself in British history and culture.
Obviously, Windsor Castle is the reason to come, but the town of Windsor itself is packed with all kinds of interesting attractions.
Windsor also boasts a riverside park, museums, shopping boutiques, and numerous historical streets to spend the day exploring.
51. Solo Day Trip to Oxford
Oxford is known for its fairytale-like towers, spires, and many Harry Potter filming locations. It’s also home to the world-famous University of Oxford and its many college buildings, gardens, and libraries that are open to the public.
Many London travellers enjoy taking a day to get out of the city and take a day trip to Oxford. The city is only an hour’s journey from London, and you can get there by train, taxi, or go on a guided tour of the university buildings
Things to Do in London Alone: FAQ
Where is the Best Place to Stay as a Traveller in London?
The best place to stay in London as a traveler is near the main attractions of West London, in neighbourhoods like Westminster and Covent Garden. But if you’re looking for more affordable accommodation, Shoreditch, Hackney, and Camden are great options with tons of nightlife.
Is London Safe for Female Solo Travellers?
Yes, London is a safe city for female solo travellers. Of course, you should be mindful of your surroundings and stay in well-lit areas at night, but most areas (including public transport) are very safe with CCTV cameras and police officers patrolling regularly.
Is London a Good Place to Visit Solo?
Yes, London is a great place to visit solo. With its vibrant multicultural environment, variety of attractions, and extensive public transportation system, it’s easy to get around alone and there are so many fun things to do alone in London.
How Can I Spend Time Alone in London?
There are lots of activities to do in London alone. You can see bucket-list attractions like Big Ben, the London Eye, and Trafalgar Square, or you can visit one of the many museums, attend a show on West End, or wander through street markets and city parks.
Solo Things To Do in London: Items You’ll Need While Exploring
- A camera to capture the spots you’ll be visiting around London; all my photos are taken with my Fujifilm X-T 4.
- A GoPro HERO 9 for cinematic videos of your travels.
- A power bank to keep your devices juiced up; I use this one to charge my phone, GoPro, and cameras while travelling.
- A backpack to carry your snacks and a bottle of water.
- A stylish pair of walking shoes to explore in comfort.
Final Thoughts on Things To Do in London on Your Own
Whether you are looking for things to do alone in London at night, famous attractions to see, shopping centers, places to eat, or unusual things to do in London, you won’t ever get bored adding these places to your London itinerary!
You can marvel at street art, take thrilling cruises across the River Thames, or try a few of the awesome free activities in London for a budget-friendly adventure.
There are also many solo trips from London, like Stonehenge and the rolling hills and villages of The Cotswolds.
I hope you have a fantastic time traveling alone in London and don’t forget to check my list of these essential tips before visiting my home city.
Now you know what to do in London alone!