Exploring London Solo: A Guide To The City's Best Bits

London is a great city to explore alone, with plenty of activities to keep you entertained. From strolling through Hyde Park to visiting the Tower of London, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. Here's a paragraph to introduce the topic of things to do in London when travelling alone:

London, a bustling metropolis with a rich history and diverse culture, offers an array of exciting experiences for solo travellers. From exploring iconic landmarks like the London Eye and Tower Bridge to wandering through famous markets such as Camden and Borough, London presents a multitude of opportunities for those venturing alone. The city's renowned museums, including the British Museum and the National Gallery, provide a wealth of knowledge and artistic delights. For nature enthusiasts, Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens offer peaceful escapes, while the South Bank boasts a lively atmosphere with street performers and pop-up food stalls. London's culinary scene caters to all tastes, from solo dining in high-demand restaurants to savouring street food from around the world. With its efficient public transport system and friendly locals, London is an ideal destination for those seeking new adventures on their own.

Explore London's food markets

London is a foodie's paradise, with markets dotted all over the city. Here's a guide to exploring London's food markets:

Borough Market

One of the most famous and historic food markets in London, Borough Market has been around for over a thousand years. Located near London Bridge, it boasts over 100 stalls, restaurants and bars, offering a diverse range of food from all over the world. You'll find everything from vegan cheese to hand-dived scallops, ethically sourced dates, and sweet Italian almonds. It's a great place to grab a quick bite, stock up on gourmet ingredients, or simply wander and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Broadway Market

Broadway Market in Hackney is a vibrant, thriving market that has been operating since the Victorian era. Every Saturday, the road is lined with dozens of temporary stalls, alongside over 70 permanent food shops, cafes and restaurants. You'll find a wide range of produce, from fresh seasonal fruits and juices to filled pasta, British cheeses, and baked goods. It's a great place to mingle with locals and experience London's food culture.

Berwick Street Market

Holding strong for over 200 years, Berwick Street Market is a gem in the heart of central London. While it now mainly consists of street food stalls, it's the best place in the West End for fresh, juicy fruits and vegetables at great prices. You'll also find stalls selling biodynamic eggs, organic dairy products, and an array of inspiring salads and wraps.

Brixton Market

Brixton Market is the vibrant heart of Brixton, offering an extensive selection of food and produce. Stroll along Electric Avenue and explore the bustling outside market, then head into Brixton Village for a wide range of shops. You'll find everything from traditional fishmongers and butchers to specialist Caribbean and Latin American produce. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover new flavours.

Camden Market

With over 1,000 shops, stalls and eateries, Camden Market is one of the largest and most bustling markets in London. You'll find a diverse range of street food, including unique vegan and vegetarian options, vintage clothing, and quirky crafts from around the world. It's a must-visit destination for a fun, eclectic dining and shopping experience.

Other Notable Markets

London has an abundance of food markets, each with its unique character and offerings:

• Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill offers a mix of vintage clothes, antiques, bread, cakes, seafood, and cheeses.
• Maltby Street Market is tucked under railway arches, offering a range of indulgent treats like cheese toasties, naan breads, and brownies.
• Mercato Metropolitano, a former paper factory, serves up Italian delights, including fresh pasta and gelato.
• Greenwich Market has a variety of international cuisines, from handmade sushi to Argentinian empanadas.
• Victoria Park Sunday Market is a foodie hub, with independent businesses offering local produce and homemade treats.
• Seven Dials Market in Covent Garden is home to over 13 independent food businesses, including the world's first cheese conveyor belt restaurant.
• Peckham Levels reflects Peckham's trendy vibe, with street food stalls serving up Delhi-inspired dishes, West African specials, and vegan Ethiopian recipes.
• Chapel Market in Angel is a traditional London market with fruit and veg stalls, fish, and a beloved vegetarian Indian buffet.
• Billingsgate Fish Market is the largest fish market in the UK, offering an early-morning, exotic seafood experience.
• Tooting Market is a maze-like market with a mix of African fabric shops, Caribbean grocers, and international food stalls.

Visit the British Museum

The British Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in the world, with a collection of eight million works. It is dedicated to human history, art and culture and is located in the Bloomsbury area of London. Entry is free, and it is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with extended hours until 8:30 pm on Fridays.

The museum was established in 1753, largely based on the collections of Anglo-Irish physician and scientist Sir Hans Sloane. It first opened to the public in 1759 and has since expanded to cover an area of over 92,000 square metres, with 21,600 square metres of on-site storage space and an additional 9,400 square metres of external storage space.

The British Museum boasts a stunning collection of artefacts from around the globe, including the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies and the Parthenon sculptures. It is also home to the world's largest and most comprehensive collection of Egyptian antiquities outside of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, with over 100,000 pieces.

The museum's collection is incredibly diverse, with objects from ancient civilisations such as Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome, to name a few. It also has an extensive collection of prints and drawings, with approximately 50,000 drawings and over two million prints.

The British Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, art and culture. With its vast collection and impressive exhibits, it offers a unique insight into the story of human culture from its beginnings to the present.

Take a Thames cruise

One of the best ways to explore London is by boat, and a Thames cruise is a great option for those travelling alone. The river is the perfect vantage point for some of London's most iconic landmarks, and a cruise allows you to escape the crowds and experience the city's beautiful scenery.

There are various operators offering Thames cruises, including Thames River Sightseeing, City Cruises, and Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. You can choose from a range of cruise options, such as:

• Hop-on, hop-off river cruises: These cruises allow you to travel to tourist hotspots and explore the city at your own pace. Thames River Sightseeing offers a 2-day hop-on and hop-off ticket, while City Cruises offers a 24-hour pass.
• Dining cruises: Thames cruises often combine sightseeing with dining experiences. You can opt for a traditional afternoon tea, a luxurious dinner cruise, or a lunch cruise with audio commentary.
• Evening cruises: Enjoy London's twinkling skyline and iconic sights on an evening cruise. Canapes and a glass of bubbly are usually included, and you can admire the views from the upper deck.
• Speedboat tours: For an adrenaline-pumping experience, try a Thames speedboat tour. Whizz along to the soundtrack of James Bond and feel the wind in your hair as you zip along the river.
• Special interest cruises: Some cruises cater to specific interests. For example, Thames River Sightseeing offers a cruise that includes entry to Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and the Tower of London. Thames Clippers also offers a joint ticket with the IFS Cloud Cable Car for panoramic views.

Most Thames river cruises depart from Westminster Pier, Tower Pier, or the London Eye Waterloo Pier. Thames Clippers boats depart from several piers along the river, providing a reliable and frequent service.

See a West End show

London's West End is a world-famous beacon of theatre culture, boasting an exciting array of original plays, comedies, and revivals. The West End is filled with historic productions that continue to run for decades. From world-class plays to musicals and comedies, there's something for everyone, at every budget.

Theatreland, as it is known, is a cultural district with much more to offer than neon lights and famous faces. The West End has been at the heart of London's cultural scene for over 350 years. The oldest theatre still in use today is Theatre Royal Drury Lane, which opened in 1663.

A visit to London is not complete without seeing a theatre show, and as a solo traveller, you will find it easier to get last-minute tickets or single seats. You can purchase theatre tickets online, directly at the theatre, or even through your hotel. If you're on a budget, check out the TKTS booth in Leicester Square for last-minute deals on West End shows.

• London Palladium
• Dominion Theatre
• Shaftesbury Avenue (home to six theatres)
• Theatre Royal Haymarket
• Adelphi
• Arts Theatre (the smallest theatre in the West End)
• English National Opera's London Coliseum (the largest theatre in the West End)
• London Palladium

And here are some of the West End's most iconic shows:

• The Mousetrap
• Mamma Mia!
• Wicked
• The Lion King
• The Book of Mormon
• Matilda the Musical
• Frozen the Musical
• Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
• The Phantom of the Opera
• Les Misérables
• Tina: The Tina Turner Musical

Shop in Camden Market

Camden Market is a bustling hub of activity located in the heart of London, boasting over 1,000 shops, stalls, and eateries. It's the perfect place for a solo traveller to immerse themselves in the local culture and pick up some unique finds. Here are some tips to make the most of your shopping experience at Camden Market:

• With such a vast array of options, it's easy to get overwhelmed. Take your time to explore the different quarters and discover the diverse range of products on offer. From vintage clothing and accessories to handcrafted jewellery and unique gifts, there's something for everyone.
• Foodies will delight in the international cuisine available at the market. Indulge in street food from around the world, including Thai, Mediterranean, and British options. Don't forget to try the local favourite, Camden Noodle!
• For those seeking a bargain, Camden Market is a treasure trove of vintage and second-hand items. Browse the stalls in the Stables or check out shops like Psylo Fashion for one-of-a-kind fashion finds.
• Art enthusiasts will appreciate the vibrant street art and graffiti that adorns the market buildings. Keep an eye out for the beautiful artwork as you wander through the market, and don't miss the new mural at Hawley Wharf, celebrating 50 years of Camden Market.
• If you're looking for a more relaxed shopping experience, opt for a weekday visit. The market can get extremely busy on Saturdays, making it challenging to navigate the narrow alleys.
• To make the most of your time, consider joining a guided tour specifically tailored to the market, such as the Camden Market Private Tour or the London Rock Music Tour. These tours provide insight into the history of the market and can help you discover hidden gems.
• Keep an eye out for special events and festivals hosted by the market, especially during the summer months. These events often feature live music, performances, and activities for all ages, adding to the lively atmosphere of the market.
• Lastly, don't forget to practise basic safety precautions. While Camden Market is generally safe, it's always wise to be vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

So, whether you're a vintage enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for a unique shopping experience, Camden Market is a must-visit destination when travelling alone in London. With its eclectic mix of cultures and subcultures, you're sure to find something to suit your taste and create lasting memories.

Frequently asked questions