Travelling alone is a great opportunity to get to know yourself better, all while seeing some of the best sights in the city. London is a friendly city for women who are exploring solo, thanks to both the sheer variety of things to see and do and the opportunities specifically designed for one.
However, just like all cities, there are a few things you should know before heading to London on your own – here’s our brief guide to flying solo…
Where can I stay?
Look out for accommodation which is safe and centrally located, making it easier to get around. We recommend an elegant, comfortable hotel like the Montcalm Hotel Marble Arch, where you can rest assured you always have a secure base for the night.
Where can I go?
There’s lots of places for you to see when staying in London, and many of them are entirely single-friendly. Whatever you want to do and wherever you want to go, you are you’ll find that there’s a way to do it all solo.
Some of our favourite locations for travelling solo include:
Joining a tour
This is a particularly popular option for anyone who would value a bit of company on their travels, but doesn’t want to feel constricted or tied down. Tours cover a wide range of different topics and can take place at night or during the day – making them an ultra-flexible way of experiencing London in a whole new light.
From discovering the stunning street art to finding out more about the crimes of Jack the Ripper, there’s always something new to discover.
Taking a class
London also loves to learn, and there are plenty of classes which will welcome a new addition with open arms. Maybe you’ve always wanted to learn how to make something, or are enthusiastic about world history or culture? Classes and seminars are a way to make your trip more informative.
Sightseeing
As with so many aspects of exploring London, sightseeing can be done without the need to have company! From discovering Westminster Abbey to taking a trip to some of the top museums in the city, all of these locations are fantastic for travelling solo.
Where can I eat?
Travelling solo needn’t mean you miss out on dining out. Instead of resigning yourself to grabbing a quick bite to eat, use our London restaurant tips to get yourself a great seat in a top restaurant, where you can sample delicious cuisine while watching the world go by. This is another activity where going it alone certainly doesn’t mean missing out on anything.
Packing
It can be tricky to know what to pack for London, but our best tip is simply to go for layers! You never quite know what the weather has in store for the day, but by layering your clothes you can quickly get changed into something weather-appropriate.
You’ll want to bring shoes you can walk in, even for an evening out – much of the city is walkable and even the public transport tends to involve a lot of getting from A to B on foot.
If you’re anxious about what to pack, take a look at the weather report for the time you’re set to be in London – and then book yourself into your spa hotel in London!
Travel
There are lots of different ways to navigate London, and many travellers opt for the Tube. However, if this doesn’t appeal to you then there are still lots of different ways for you to see the sights. London has a thriving bus network, though it may take you a little longer to meet your destination. Alternatively, you could always opt for a cab – though this tends to be pricier than the Tube.
Navigating the Tube
Getting around on the Tube might be a little nerve-wracking when you’re travelling solo, but there are lots of ways to help make it all feel a little more manageable. The Tube is London’s large rail network, consisting of both underground (and some overground) services.
Using the Tube, you can get to almost anywhere you need to go in London during your stay at the best hotel rooms in London. If you’re feeling daunted by the prospect, there are a few key ways to make sure you stay safe and secure:
1.) Use caution when travelling at night. The Tube offers late night services, and many of these are used by partiers who may be a little too drunk to be travelling. If you feel threatened, immediately contact a member of staff.
2.) Stay away from the platform edge. This is vital whether you’re travelling alone or with a group, but for solo travellers it can be tempting to rush for your train. Don’t. The Tube runs frequently, and if you miss one, there’ll be another along soon enough.
3.) Observe safety instructions and navigation tips – such as holding onto the handrail on the escalators. Look out for maps if you can’t find your way around, or alternatively contact a member of the London Underground team, who will be happy to help you.
Walking alone in London
Just as travelling using the Tube is generally safe, so is walking when you’re a solo traveller in London. However, as a woman it is important to exercise due caution at key times of the day and night, in addition to paying attention to some of the locations where you might be considering walking.
If you feel unsafe, trust your instincts. Stay away from deserted areas (particularly at night) and make sure someone knows where you are and where you’re going.
All of this would also be important when travelling with others, but for solo female travellers it all takes on added importance from a safety perspective. When adhering to these simple tips, there’s no reason you shouldn’t have a great time exploring London.
+44(0) 7525 594 562
