solo female travel england

Solo Female Travel in England, Scotland, and Wales — A UK Guide

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I have spent a LOT of time traveling alone in England, Scotland, and Wales. Much more than I originally intended. I went to Europe without a plan, ended up living for months at a time in two different cities in England, and used them as a base to explore the country.

I never thought the UK would become one of my most extensively traveled countries. At the time, I was more interested in warmer, sexier, more exotic travel destinations — the UK seemed so boring compared to Thailand or Italy or South Africa. And yet I completely fell under its spell.

Traveling in the UK is seen as an “easy” option. I can’t deny that — it’s one of the easiest possible countries for newbie travelers. But that doesn’t mean more experienced travelers can’t enjoy it. I think Britain is one of the most interesting countries I’ve visited! Speaking the local language and being in a similar culture allows you to get in deeper to the nuances that make the culture unique.

If you’re looking to travel solo in England, or Scotland, or Wales — or all three! — you’ve come to the right place. This guide lists everything you need to know.

Table of Contents

Why Travel to the UK?

First things first: let’s talk about what terms are best to use.  The UK, or Britain, consists of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Great Britain consists of England, Scotland, and Wales — not Northern Ireland. The British Isles include all of the UK plus Ireland. Oh, and don’t get me started on the Channel Islands, which are parts of some of these groups but not others…

For the ease of this post, I will be focusing solely on England, Scotland, and Wales. I’ll be rolling Northern Ireland into a future Ireland travel guide. There’s no political reasoning behind that; it’s purely for geographical reasons.

People travel to the UK because it’s a destination of which they already have an idea in their mind.  Everyone knows that London, at the very least, is foggy and has bridges. Scotland has kilts and bagpipes. All of the UK is covered in castles and villages. And they love tea and they have a queen.

Plenty of people grow up as Anglophiles, dreaming of one day experiencing the culture for themselves. People come to the UK for history. Quite a few North Americans come to the UK for ancestry-related reasons, to see their family roots. And some just want to learn what it’s like to drive on the left.

But I think the true charms of Britain involve getting to know the people and the culture on a deeper level. You can do that by spending time in a pub, or joining a meetup with lots of locals. You can absolutely get there by attending a festival! This will show you that Britain is far beyond its stereotypes.

There’s More to England than London!!!

This is my biggest UK travel tip of all. I can’t tell you how many people I’ve heard say they want to go to “London and Ireland” or “London and Scotland” while ignoring the rest of England. Or maybe, maybe they’ll add in a quick trip to Stonehenge before leaving English territory.

I used to be one of those people, actually. I met four friends from the north of England (which is culturally very different from the south of England) while traveling in Vietnam, they told me where they were from Chester and Oldham, I asked, “Oh, is that close to London?” and all four of them visibly cringed.

Believe me, there is SO much more to England than London. If you come to England and only visit London, you’re missing out on some truly wonderful destinations. See more below on exactly where to go in England.

Is Britain Good for First-Time Solo Female Travelers?

Absolutely — England, Scotland, and Wales are some of the BEST destinations for first-time solo female travelers.  English is the local language, there’s excellent travel infrastructure, it’s easy to get around, and there are plenty of travelers doing the same thing you are.

If you’ve never traveled solo in your life, England, Scotland, or Wales would be a terrific choice. If you’ve never been to Europe in your life, any of the three would be a great choice, too, with or without a partner.

Beyond that, locals in the UK — particularly in London and Edinburgh — are used to dealing with less experienced travelers and know how to cater to their needs. That said, new travelers don’t get scammed or targeted here nearly as much as in Paris or Barcelona. For that reason, if you’re set on Paris or Barcelona for your first solo trip ever, I recommend spending a few days in London or Edinburgh first to get your solo travel bearings in an easy and safe place.

Is Britain Good for Experienced Solo Female Travelers?

Hell yes, Britain is good for experienced solo female travelers! It might seem “too easy” if you’re used to traveling in the developing world, but sometimes you’re in the mood for somewhere a bit easier. And there are plenty of places to get off the beaten path.

And that doesn’t mean going into rural areas — it could mean visiting a fun but not-as-famous city like Glasgow or Leeds. It could mean renting a car and stopping at every adorable pub you see in one particular region. It could mean doing an extended hike like the Dales Way or Hadrian’s Wall Path. It could mean climbing the Three Peaks — Ben Nevis in Scotland, Mt. Scafell in England, and Mount Snowden in Wales (some crazy people do all three within 24 hours!).

As someone who has already traveled extensively in the UK, here are the places still high on my list: Cornwall, the Scilly Islands, Bristol, Brighton, and Newcastle in England; the Outer Hebrides, Orkney Islands, and St. Kilda in Scotland; and Anglesey and much more of the Pembrokeshire Coast in Wales.

Consider traveling to destinations that are popular getaways for Brits but fairly unknown to foreigners. For people who live further south, Cornwall and Devon are popular coastal destinations. When I was based in Chester, lots of people went for weekends away in the Lake District (which is so beautiful!) or the coast of Wales.

Scenes from England’s Lake District

Getting Around the UK as a Solo Traveler

There are lots of ways to travel around the UK. If you want to travel solely on public transportation, it’s possible! But if you want maximum flexibility in rural areas, a car is your best option.

My favorite way to travel in the UK is by train. The train system extends throughout the country and trains run fast and often. Trains are extremely comfortable and in a country as small as the UK it doesn’t take super-long to cross the country — you can even cover super-long journeys like from Inverness to Penzance in just 15 hours. For long distances, however, it can sometimes be cheaper to take a budget flight.

Traveling by flight is fast and efficient.  Sometimes it can be cheaper than trains. It does make more of an environmental impact, so consider traveling by train if you can — especially since when you add time traveling to and waiting at the airport, it can be a faster door-to-door journey by train. If you’re using miles, it usually costs the same to fly to or from anywhere in the UK as it would from London.

Traveling by coach is slower and cheaper. Brits refer to long-distance buses as coaches and the biggest network is National Express. These coaches are very comfortable and cost less than trains. Some other lines like Megabus have cheaper but less comfortable coaches.

Ferries exist as well. There are short ferries to nearby islands, especially island-dotted Scotland, and longer ferries for further afield journeys. I took the overnight ferry from Aberdeen to Shetland — a wild, tumultuous journey across the North Sea but a lot of fun!

Renting a car is possible.  This is especially useful if you want to explore a remote, beautiful region like the Cornwall coast, the Cotswolds, or the North Coast 500 drive in Scotland. Keep in mind that they drive on the left in the UK, cars tend to be manual (make sure you specify renting an automatic car if you need one), and the cars are much smaller than their American counterparts.

Travel and Safety Tips for England, Scotland, and Wales

Britain isn’t the kind of place where you need lots of detailed, unusual safety tips — it’s an easy place to travel and crime is fairly low. You can stick to the usual travel safety tips you’d follow anywhere else, but I thought I’d include a few things I’ve learned about British culture. It’s much more complicated and nuanced than “They drink tea!” and “They have a queen!”

So much of British culture is understanding how Brits interact with each other. British people tend to be a lot more pulled in than Americans. They’re far less likely to strike up conversations with strangers. They tend to want to avoid confrontation and awkward conversations at all costs, and will often be polite to people for the sake of keeping the peace.

How to explain this? Here are some Very British Problems : “Asking to sample an ale, disliking it and ordering a whole pint so as not to waste the barman’s time.” “Not quite catching someone’s name, meaning you can never speak to them again.” “Assuring your hairdresser the temperature is fine, despite a strong suspicion your scalp is beginning to melt.”

English people tend to be the quietest; Scottish people tend to be warmer and more welcoming.

“You all right?” doesn’t mean “What’s wrong?” — it means “How are you?” Embarrassingly, it took me six months of replying, “Yeah, why?” to my British friends before I realized this. Now you know!

Brits tend to mock people they love and be icily polite to people they hate. It took me a long time to realize that the people who often made fun of me were doing so out of great affection. I wish I had realized that at the time.

Brits often sign emails or texts with an X, even if it’s a platonic conversation. Don’t read too much into this (as I may have once or twice). They’re not saying that they want to kiss you or they have a crush on you; it’s just a common thing to do.

Brits drive on the left, walk on the left, and stand on the left. Look both ways when crossing the street! Most crosswalks say LOOK LEFT, especially in London, or otherwise show you where to look.

Know that some British terms are different from American English. Three that are particularly important: Pissed means drunk, not angry; pants means underwear and trousers is what you’d say for pants; and fanny means vagina, not butt.

“Shouting” beers can lead to drinking too much. In Britain, it’s common to take turns paying for each other’s drinks — one person will pay for a round for the whole table, then another person will buy the next round. If you’re drinking with men or heavy drinkers, you may feel pressured to keep pace to avoid any awkward moments (see, that’s British culture seeping into you!) , and this is a fast way to get drunker than you want to. Four beers may be fine for a larger guy, but that can be a LOT for a woman, especially if they’re strong beers.

The best thing to do is to tell the group early that you only want to have two drinks that night. That way people won’t think you’re trying to weasel your way out of paying for others.

Some of London’s airports are far outside the city. You could argue that all of them are far out except for London City — and London City is usually an expensive place to fly into (but easy to do with points!). Luton and Stansted are especially far out. Keep this in mind if you have an early departing flight, since trains often won’t run early enough and you’ll need to book a cab.

I encourage you not to switch airports on a layover in London if you can help it — it adds a ton of transfer time and hassle, especially if you hit traffic. Paying a bit more to have a layover in the same airport is worth the money.

Scotland has its own currency. The Scottish pound has the same value as the British pound and they use both currencies interchangeably in Scotland. Try to use it up before you leave Scotland, however, because places outside Scotland don’t like to accept it, even though it’s legal tender.

Get a SIM card.  SIM cards are good for helping you navigate your way around, as well as summoning Ubers. There are lots of different companies in Britain, and they are all much cheaper than US plans. Three, GiffGaff, O2, and TescoMobile are some of the companies that do short-term SIM cards with data.

SIM card coverage is spotty on highways throughout the UK and in rural areas, especially rural Scotland. Don’t rely on a SIM card to get you around the Scottish Highlands.

Be careful about your drinking.  Drink less than you ordinarily would at home — two drinks is a good limit. Only take drinks from bartenders, never take a drink from a stranger, and always keep it with you and keep an eye on it.

Keep an eye on your belongings at all times.  If you carry a purse, hold it close to you. I recommend a crossbody purse, made out of a tough material like leather or fake leather, that zips shut. I recommend many purses in this post.  Never let it hang behind you — always keep it in a place where you can see it, and keep your hand on it if you’re in a crowd.

If you carry a wallet without a purse, don’t keep it in your back pocket. This is obvious to thieves and they will grab it and run.

If you use a small backpack, lock it. I use a Pacsafe backpack where you can lock the compartments shut.

Never leave your bags anywhere unattended.  Take them with you. While in cities and touristy areas in the UK, if you’re keeping your bag under the table or otherwise out of sight, keep it between your feet or hook the strap around one of the chair legs.

Keep your valuables locked up in your accommodation and only take with you what you need that day.  I do this with my Pacsafe Travelsafe and I consider it the most important thing I pack . Keep an extra debit card and at least $100 hidden in obscure parts of your luggage.

Get an extra debit card. You should have two debit cards to two different bank accounts. If you only have one, I recommend you get a debit card from Transferwise . Keep a few hundred dollars in your account, hide the card deep in your luggage, and use it if your primary debit card is stolen.

If someone robs you, GIVE THEM WHAT THEY WANT.  Things can be replaced. Nothing is worth your life.

Don’t carry tons of cash around with you. You can use credit cards almost everywhere in the UK, and carrying lots of cash leaves you vulnerable to theft. Don’t be the traveler who loses her wallet and the $500 in it.

Only use ATMs at banks if possible.  If your card gets eaten, it’s a lot easier to retrieve it from a real bank’s ATM. If you can’t find a bank and it’s at night, use an ATM indoors, in a vestibule or in a shopping mall.

Get a digital guidebook and keep it on your phone.  Even today, I always keep a guidebook PDF on my phone — it’s great for calculating approximate time of journeys, knowing what days places are closed, and it lists medical centers you should go to in case of emergency. I’m a big fan of Lonely Planet guidebooks — get the digital version of Lonely Planet Great Britain .

Spend extra money on staying safe.  If you’re not comfortable walking home at night, spend money on an Uber. If you’re hesitant on spending money on a not-as-nice-looking hostel, pay for a nicer place. It’s worth the peace of mind. Don’t pinch pennies on your safety.

Most importantly, you have no obligation to be nice to anyone. Women often feel the need to be nice and please people at all costs. You don’t have to anywhere — especially so in the UK, where acquiescing to other people’s needs is part of the culture. If anyone is making you feel uncomfortable, just leave. Trust me — you won’t be the rudest person they meet that day. And so what if you were? You’re never going to see them again.

Top 10 Travel Safety Tips for Women

How will Brexit affect travel?

As of the time of the latest update (December 2019), there isn’t a clear answer on what the next step is for Brexit.  That said, as a foreigner visiting the UK, Brexit is unlikely to affect your travels in any meaningful way other than a slightly better exchange rate.

Britain has always been located outside the Schengen Area of Europe, which means that flights to Europe are treated as international flights, not domestic. Nothing about Brexit will change this.

One major Brexit factor is that the currently open border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland may close in the future. When anything is announced about this, I will include an update here.

The Best Travel Experiences in the UK

Walking in the steps of the Beatles in Liverpool.  Take a bus ride to Strawberry Fields, see a show at the Cavern Club, check out the Beatles Experience. You can even visit John’s and Paul’s houses! Seeing Liverpool through their eyes gives you a special context that you’ll always remember when you listen to them in the future.

Treating yourself to high tea at one of the hotels in London.  Afternoon tea can be a pleasure anywhere in the country, but high tea is fancy, sophisticated, and refined. Be sure to dress up if you go to one of the luxury hotels. For something wacky, choose a high tea with an unusual theme!

Getting into British food. British food is SO much better than its reputation! My favorite way to experience the food is to have a farm-to-table meal and glass of wine in a high-end pub. Other faves? Arbroath smokies (smoked whole fish for breakfast) in Scotland, fresh Welsh cakes off the griddle in Wales, and tucking into a perfect sticky toffee pudding in England.

Geeking out at the Harry Potter locations. At the very least, go to King’s Cross Station in London and pose at Platform 9 3/4, where you can be photographed pushing a disappearing luggage cart into the wall! If you’re an even bigger fan, head to more obscure sites like Alnwick Castle, where Harry took his first Quidditch lesson, and Christ Church College in Oxford, which was used for some Hogwarts scenes.

Catching shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. This theater festival takes place every August and you’ll find hundreds of shows taking place all over the city! From stand-up comedy to dark dramas to musicals involving taxidermied animals, this festival has something for everyone. And they’re all cheap — some are free.

Throwing yourself off cliffs in North Wales. Ever heard of coasteering? This adventure sport was invented in Wales! Clad in a wetsuit and helmet, you climb up boulders along the coast, then throw yourself into the cold water below. Worth the chill for the adrenaline rush.

Tasting Britain’s handcrafted spirits. Britain is in the middle of a spirit revolution! Most people start with whiskey tasting in Scotland, from the Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh to visiting distilleries on different islands. Brits are making interesting gin, too! I went on a gin-hopping trip in England and had a wonderful time at all the distilleries.

Dancing all night long with torch-bearing vikings in Shetland. Up Helly Aa is not only the best festival I’ve attended, it’s one of the best things I’ve done on my travels, period. If you can get yourself to this festival (and into an after-party), it’s something you will remember FOREVER.

Up Helly Aa in Shetland: Possibly My Best Adventure Yet!

Where to Go in England on a Solo Trip

London is great — but it’s not all England has to offer. Remember that. Also, keep in mind that northern England is culturally very different from southern England — it’s nice to experience both regions within your trip.

Okay, start in London . Spend a lot of time in London, if you will. It truly is one of the world’s greatest cities with outstanding free museums, incredible food and markets, and perhaps one of the most international communities on the planet.

Liverpool. England has so many interesting cities that aren’t named London, and Liverpool is my favorite, with cool architecture, delicious gin, nice museums, and Beatlemania. Some other big cities are Bristol, Newcastle, Manchester, and Leeds.

The Lake District.  This national park in northwest England is home to outstanding scenery, all lush and green. While England’s natural areas don’t get the attention they deserve, If you want to visit more scenic areas, consider exploring the coastline and gorges of  Cornwell and Devon .

Brighton. This colorful seaside city is just one hour from London, making it an easy day trip and fun getaway. For other easy day trips from London, check out Oxford, Cambridge, and Stonehenge (the latter easily paired with Bath).

York. This small city in Yorkshire is so adorable that it’s shopping street, The Shambles, served as inspiration for Harry Potter! Come to York to get lost in the storybook-like streets and hear the choir sing in the York Minster. If you like picture-perfect towns, consider exploring Chester, Bath, and the Cotswolds .

Scenes from the Cotswolds

Where to go in Scotland on a Solo Trip

I won’t lie — Scotland is my favorite part of Britain, and it’s hard not to fall under its spell. You could easily spend months in Scotland and see something new every day. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Edinburgh. One of my favorite cities on the planet. It’s like a fairy tale come to life, complete with a castle on a hill. It’s incredibly beautiful and endlessly interesting, and people are so nice. It’s very Scottish while having a good international feel at the same time.

The Scottish Highlands. Most people who visit Scotland have the Highlands in mind, and for good reason. Be sure to check out Glencoe, Culloden Battlefield, Loch Ness, and Loch Lomond .

Isle of Skye. This island may technically be part of the Scottish Highlands, but it deserves its own spot for its beauty and sights, like Kilt Rock’s waterfall. If you love islands, some other lovely ones are Islay, Mull, Arran, and Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides .

Dunnottar Castle. This half-ruined castle is my favorite castle in Scotland — such a gorgeous place to photograph. Some other great castles are Urqhardt Castle, Stirling Castle, and of course Edinburgh Castle .

Glasgow. This city doesn’t get as much love as Edinburgh, and the accent might be incomprehensible, but it’s a really wonderful place to visit — especially if you’re fed up with tourist crowds. Glasgow has excellent museums, shops, and food. Another nice city to check out is St. Andrews , where William and Kate went to university and fell in love!

The Shetland Islands.  Known locally known as Shetland, these stunning, carved out islands are located between Scotland and Norway. Shetlanders are very independent, claiming little allegiance to Scotland, and they throw two of UK’s best festivals (Up Helly Aa and the Shetland Folk Festival). If you’re heading this far north, you might as well check out the Orkney Islands with their interesting landscapes and archaeological sites.

My Love Affair with Scotland

Where to Go on a Solo Trip to Wales

If you’re going to Wales, you’ll likely want to focus on either the north or the south, unless you’re planning a much longer trip to Wales. Both of these areas have a lot to offer — it’s all about what you’re into!

Snowdonia National Park. This gem of North Wales is one of the best national parks in all of Britain, and it’s full of endless beauty. If you’re here, you should consider climbing Mount Snowden — it’s very doable if you’re at an average level of fitness!

Conwy . This northern town is home to some UNESCO World Heritage-listed ruins, like Conwy Castle, and the smallest house in Britain. If you’re here, be sure to check out Llangollen   or Betws-y-Coed as well.

Anglesey . This island off the coast of northwest Wales is a peaceful place known for its beaches and ruins, as well as the longest place name in the world, Llanfair­pwllgwyngyll­gogery­chwyrn­drobwll­llan­tysilio­gogo­goch . William and Kate made their first home here.

Cardiff. This city in the south is pretty, green a good launching base for exploring the south of Wales. Be sure to take a food tour, take a ferry to the waterfront, and eat all the Welsh cakes.

Hay-on-Wye. This small town is my favorite place in Wales — it’s filled with used bookstores and home to a literary festival! Another nice small town to visit in the south of Wales is  Laugherne , home of Dylan Thomas.

The Pembrokeshire Coast is one of the most beautiful parts of the UK — you’ll be shocked at its beauty. Places like Tenby could be straight out of the Mediterranean. Some other places to check out in Pembrokeshire include Pwll Deri, Fishguard, and Carmarthern .

A Dreamy Trip to South Wales

How to Meet People While Traveling in the UK

If you’re looking to meet people in the UK, you can definitely do that!  Britain may have a standoffish culture in general, but when people loosen up, they become very friendly. Plus, the whole country is full of travelers looking for people to meet. Here are some ways to meet people:

Consider staying at a social hostel.  There are tons of great hostels all over the UK, from country hideaways in rural Wales to modern chains in London. Many of these hostels offer private rooms, if dorms aren’t your thing, and quite a few of them offer tours and other activities. If there is a bar in the hostel, it will be a very social place.

Join tours.  Tours are a great way to meet new people! Whether you’re doing a food tour through London’s East End or learning about York’s spookiest spirits on a ghost tour , you’ll meet people excited to explore the local region.

Look for Couchsurfing meetup events throughout the UK. Couchsurfing isn’t just for free accommodation — they also put on meetup events where everyone is welcome. Many major cities have weekly meetups, and they always draw a great crowd.

Join a meetup on  Meetup.com . Whether you’re into travel, running, movies, board games, or just want to meet a group of nice people, there’s a Meetup for that.

Put out feelers on social media. Often a friend of yours will have a cousin or friend living somewhere in the UK who will offer to meet you for coffee, just so you know someone. Take advantage of this if you can.

Tinder. If you’re looking to date or hook up, have fun! If you’ve always wanted to date a guy or girl with a swoon-worthy accent, this is your chance!

What to Wear in England, Scotland, and Wales

Britain is one place where you don’t need to be super-conscious of how you pack.  You don’t need to dress conservatively for any reason; you don’t need dress a level above usual like you would in Italy. If you need something, just go buy something. That said, here are some tips for what to wear in Britain and how to pack:

British women tend to dress up more. I found this was especially true in England, even in smaller towns. On many occasions I would get invited to a bar, would put on jeans and a nice top, and would find my friends wearing dresses, heels, and heavy makeup. This is just something to keep in mind. It’s a bit more relaxed in Scotland and Wales, especially in rural areas.

Be prepared for rain.  The UK is well-known for its mild, overcast, often rainy weather. You should absolutely have an umbrella at all times, as weather can change on a dime here. Lifetek makes a great, strong travel umbrella.

Sunglasses. I forgot to bring sunglasses on my first trip to Scotland, it turned out to be unusually hot and sunny, and I was shocked that I couldn’t find any sunglasses to purchase from H&M or Zara! It’s not sunny as often here, so stores don’t keep sunglasses in stock as much.

Comfortable shoes. I have bad arches so almost everything I own is from  The Walking Company . Depending on where you go in the UK, I highly recommend their orthotic flip-flops (yes, orthotic flip-flops exist and they are a GAME-CHANGER!), black ABEO flats (this brand is outstanding and they have excellent arch support) or a pair of boots . If you plan on hiking, you’ll want to bring hiking boots.

Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf.  These beautiful scarves are designed and sewn by my friend and have a hidden passport pocket in them that no thief will know exists. I love these scarves ( I even designed my own! ) and they are so good at keeping your valuables hidden.

Crossbody purse.  I recommend using a crossbody purse, made out of a tough material like leather or fake leather, that zips shut. This is the kind of purse that is much harder for thieves to snatch.  I recommend many purses in this post.

Light jacket.  You’ll need a heavy jacket for the winter months, but for spring, fall, and summer, a light jacket will do well. I found my little leather moto jacket to be ideal for Britain’s warmer months — warm enough when paired with a scarf. For cooler temperatures, I preferred my Uniqlo down puffer jacket . But if you’re going to Scotland in the winter, you’ll want a full-on heavy winter coat.

If you need to buy clothes, you have plenty of options. If your luggage is lost and you need to buy some new things, check out Primark or H&M for cheap clothes. Marks & Spencer is a few rungs up — nicer and a bit pricier.

When my luggage was lost on my trip to Inverness a few years ago, I bought a few things from Marks & Spencer to hold me over — including a dress for a formal event I had to attend. It worked out great and I still wear my M&S shirt all the time!

Travel Insurance for the UK

Travel insurance is vital for trips to Britain — or any other country. If you get appendicitis while in Edinburgh or break your ankle while hiking up Mount Snowden, travel insurance will help you in your time of need and protect you from financial ruin. If you need to be flown home, it could save you well over $100,000.

And it’s not just about injury. If you get robbed, travel insurance can refund you for what was stolen from you. If your flights are cancelled due to weather, travel insurance can refund you. And if you have a death in the family and need to get home immediately, travel insurance will help you get home fast.  I use and recommend World Nomads travel insurance for trips to the UK.

Britain is waiting for you!

No matter where you end up traveling, you are going to LOVE the UK. It’s beautiful and peculiar, it’s amusing and spectacular. And yeah, they drink tea and they have a queen, but by now you know it’s MUCH more than that.

Go have the time of your life! Then get back and tell me all about it.

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Welcome to my blog! I’m Amy, from Templeseeker. I’ve been travelling for over 30 years and travelling solo for over 10 years. England is my home country – I was born and bred here! It was only when I got into my 30s that I started truly exploring my own turf. This was exacerbated by the Covid pandemic – when I wasn’t able to go abroad I really made the most of domestic tourism – spending time in some of the best historical cities in England including Oxford and York. There are so many beautiful and accessible destinations that make solo female travel in England really easy. Today I decided to put pen to paper and bring to you the ultimate solo female travel guide to England.

Solo Female Travel in England – When to go

Personally, I would avoid going to England in the winter months. The weather can include snow and ice in December and January which makes travel really difficult. The tubes can stop in London and trains and buses can frequently be cancelled. However, if you are particularly bothered about seeing England at Christmas time then I would recommend London in December . Just don’t expect to travel around the country so easily! If you do decide to visit in the winter then warm jumpers, a big coat, hat, scarf and gloves are essential.

I would recommend visiting England in the spring or summer months from May to August and possible the start of September. The weather will be milder. There will be less chance of rain and sometimes in the peak of summer you will get some nice warm and sunny days.

One more thing to consider though, is school holidays. Tourist cities like Bath, York and Chester (as well as some of the main sites in London) get very busy during school holidays. This includes Easter, Whitsun (last week of May) and the 6 weeks summer holidays which is from the last week in July to the first week in September. The dates of the school holiday can vary slightly from region to region, so check up on this before you go.

A Brief History of England

England was conquered by the Romans (55 BC–AD 410), Anglo-Saxons and Danish Kings (449–1066) and The Normans (1066–1154). The 14th and 15th Centuries were dominated by the Hundred Years’ War. This was soon followed by the War of the Roses as a result of aristocratic rivalries for the throne. There was a civil war in the 17th century. By the end of the 19th century, the industrial revolution and the establishment of a parliamentary system and the growth of an Empire had totally transformed England.

This rich history means that England boasts numerous Cathedrals, castles and fortresses. This attracts visitors from all over the world.

How to get to England

Most people flying into England fly into Manchester or Heathrow. Depending on your original destination, some people choose to fly to Liverpool, Birmingham, Luton or Gatwick airports.

If you are travelling in the North of England to Manchester, Liverpool or York then Manchester Airport is a good airport to fly into. I would also recommend that you fly into Manchester for the Peak District or the Lake District – it is easier than travelling up from London. It should be noted that Manchester and most London airports are extremely crowded and they don’t make for the most pleasant of travel experiences! Manchester airport is NOT on the Manchester Metrolink line (tram). However, there is a mainline train linking Manchester airport to Manchester Piccadilly (the main train station in Manchester) and Manchester Victoria (the second most popular Manchester station). You can take the Metrolink or onward train travel from there.

My favourite airport to fly into in England is Liverpool – it is so small and friendly which less queues at security and immigration. However, because it is a smaller airport, there are less destinations that fly direct to Liverpool. Liverpool airport is well connected to several destinations in Poland, Romania, Spain and Portugal. There is also rumour of a direct flight from Liverpool to New York with the new airline ‘ Play ‘. To get to Liverpool airport head to ‘Liverpool South Parkway’ train station and there are buses linking the airport from there.

Another very manageable airport is Birmingham international. You can fly into Birmingham from Paris, Faro, Dubai, Prague and Barcelona amongst other destinations. To get to Birmingham airport take the train from Birmingham New Street to Birmingham International. From Birmingham International you need to take a short monorail ride to the airport itself.

One of the biggest mistakes that travellers make is to think that Heathrow, Luton and Gatwick airports are actually IN London! You will need to travel a fair distance from the airport before you even arrive in the capital city. Heathrow can be reached on the tube (London Underground), but it takes about an hour as Heathrow is in Zone 6. For Gatwick to London you can take the Gatwick Express which is the quickest but still takes around an hour. Luton airport is over an hour away from London. Of course you also need to consider time taken to collect your baggage and go through security. So although people expect to be out and about in London within half an hour of landing, it’s more likely to be about 3!

Solo female travel in England – Is it safe?

Of course, there is always a small risk with any kind of travel. As with anywhere, keep your belongings close and have your wits about you. It is advisable not to attract unwanted attention to yourself by wearing low cut tops and short skirts if you are a young solo female traveller. Of course, it’s not ideal telling women how to dress to avoid difficult situations, but if dressing slightly more conservatively limits unwanted encounters then it is worth amending your wardrobe for your trip. Besides, with the weather in the UK being cold at the best of times it’s also important to note that short skirts and low tops are not practical.

If you are on a night out, you might want to pack a nice skirt or dress. Just take an Uber to and from your destination and watch out for anyone spiking your drinks – this has been known to happen in England. the best thing to do is by bottled beer and drinks and not place them down and leave your drinks unattended.

As with anywhere, avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables on you. Keep your purse and phone secure at all times and avoid getting your phone out on the tube or metro which is a prime place for petty thieves who swipe people’s phones out of the their hands.

A good safety tip is to plan your journey carefully and when arriving in a new city in England try not to arrive after dark. Use Google Maps to pre-plan the journey from the train or bus station to your hotel so that you know exactly where you are going.

Getting around England

It’s quite easy to get around the main UK towns and cities. Trains and coaches are easy to use and work out cheaper if you book them in advance.

London Underground

The London Underground is more commonly referred to as ‘The Tube’. If you arrive in England via a London airport or if you are spending a couple of days in the capital then you will probably use the tube at some point. Get yourself an Oyster card and top it up – this is a cheap and easy way to get around. It can be used on London buses as well. Simply tap your Oyster card on the touch point to board or go through the barrier.

Trains in England

I always travel by train in England – it’s easy to use and comfortable. Trains link the main cities including Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester, Liverpool, York, Oxford and Cambridge. Book your ticket ahead of time using the Trainline App (or website ) and it will work out cheaper than if you pay walk on prices.

Coaches are cheap and easy to use – although they work out cheaper than trains consider the fact that you might waste time being stuck in traffic. So for some long journeys the saving might not be worth it as it is often quicker and easier to go by train. The two main coach companies that travellers use in England are National Express and Megabus . You can book both of these online in advance.

The local buses are a good option for short journeys. Make sure that you have some coins available as the buses that take cash often don’t have change. However, some local buses in the big cities (London, Liverpool, Manchester) now take Credit or Debit cards as a method of payment. Expect to pay around £3-4 for a local bus journey depending on how far you go. Some popular English bus companies are Stagecoach, Arriva and First.

You might find this England three week Itinerary helpful.

Travel Challenges in England

England is a country with very few travel challenges, but of course no where is perfect, and so there are a few to mention:

• Cost ! Let’s be frank – England is not cheap, especially London. Make sure that you are budgeting at least £100-200 per day including accommodation.
• The Cold and the rain! England can be cold and wet, and this is still a possibility even in the spring and summer seasons. The weather is also very changeable, so if it is sunny when you leave the house it could be chucking it down when you get to your destination!
• Snow and Ice – In the winter months, snow and ice can cause everything to stop! Even the tube in London can’t cope with a couple of centimetres of snow!
• Travel Delays – England is currently suffering from numerous train strikes (over pay) and also training train drivers on new trains. Both of these mean that train delays are likely.
• Traffic – especially in historical cities – In small historical cities such as York, Oxford and Cambridge the traffic can be horrendous. Cities like that were simply not built for this amount of vehicles not he road and as these cities contain many Grade II listed buildings it is difficult to widen roads and so they just stay as they were originally built, but with at least 3 times more traffic than they were intended for!

Backpack or Suitcase for England?

It depends how you intend to travel around as to whether you take a suitcase or backpack. If you are having a single destination as a base or a dual centred trip and you are not against spending money on transfers, then a suitcase will work well. However, if you are travelling on a budget to more than two cities then backpack it. This will be much easier if you plan on taking trains between cities as well.

What to pack for your Solo Trip to England

• Walking boots – especially if you are heading to the Peak District, Lake District or any other national parks.
• Raincoat – A wind and rainproof jacket is essential for travelling in England no matter what the season! Weather in England is very changeable so carry your raincoat with you even if you least expect to need it!
• Umbrella – Another item to guard you from the rain.
• Jeans and jumpers – Most of the clothing you pack for England should be jeans and jumpers, with some T-Shirts.
• Hat, scarf and gloves – especially if you are in England in the winter months you will need these.
• Sandwich box and water bottle – As England is an expensive place to travel, using these items can help you to keep the cost down.
• England Lonely Planet – Although you can get plenty of information online, I always like to have a hard copy of a decent guide book available. The Lonely Planet England will help you out with up to date with the best hotels and traditional locals pubs.
• Travel Adapter – Check if you need a travel adapter for England, three pin plug sockets are used.

Reasons to travel alone to England

• English speaking country – great for people with English as a first language or experience of English as a second language.
• No bartering – everything that you buy in shops will be a fixed price – sometimes discounts are negotiable on market stalls.
• East to travel between destinations by train or coach – book your tickets in advance for the best prices.
• Numerous historical cities to explore on foot such as Bath, York, Oxford and Cambridge.
• England is well set up for solo female travellers – there are plenty of Tourist Information offices and travel offices to help you with directions.
• Cosy Local Pubs – Local traditional pubs are popular in England and often friendly and welcoming.
• Youth Hostel Culture – There is a good youth hostel and drinking culture in England and so it is easy to meet other solo travellers.

Solo Female Travel England – Where to go 

Of course most people flock to London when they visit England. However, London is crowded and expensive. The best advice I could give you especially if you are travelling on a budget is to get out of London ASAP and consider travelling North. Also, if you are looking for hiking and scenery then visit the Lake District or the Peak District.

London – the Big Smoke! It’s a city not to be missed, but get in and get out! As I’ve mentioned, London is very expensive and very crowded. Rush hour on the tube is not fun! My top tip for travelling in London would be to get an Oyster card. This can be used on trains and buses to make travel easier and cheaper – believe it or not it is possible to visit London on a Budget . The main sites not to be missed including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Hyde Park, St Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square and London Bridge.

Birmingham is England’s second city after London, but is not necessarily the best city to visit as a tourist. It’s very industrial and very spread out. Saying that, shopping, bars and restaurants are excellent in Birmingham and they do also have a few good museums including the science museum and the natural history museum. It may work out as a good place to link London to the North. As most trains stop at or go via Birmingham New Street, if your schedule allows it might be worth considering a day or two in Birmingham to get a vibe for the city. It’s a very friendly destination with a large student population.

Manchester is one of the top cities in the North of England and is a contender for Birmingham to deal with as it is closely catching up in terms of development. Manchester has excellent nightlife, restaurants and shopping. If you are a fan of Manchester United then see a game at Old Trafford or consider booking a stadium tour.

Liverpool is one of my favourite Northern cities – I feel that it has everything that Manchester has to offer and a lot more, with the added bonus of it being more accessible and walkable. Head to the Royal Albert Docks in Liverpool to see the Liver Building and other prominent landmarks including the Beatles statue. If you are a Beatles fan you will also want to visit the Beatles Story (Museum about the Beatles) and the Cavern Club on Matthew Street. Also if you are a fan of LFC (Liverpool Football Club) then you can go to a game or visit for a stadium tour. If you are interested, check out this blog on how to spend a day in Liverpool .

The City of York is a walled Northern city positioned on the river Ouse. In 866 it was invaded by the Danish Vikings who ransacked the city and renamed it  Jorvick . York is famous for its Viking Museum, York Minster and The Shambles – one of the oldest streets in Britain. Also head to Museum Gardens and be sure to visit St. Mary’s Abbey. The beautiful architecture, cobbled historical streets and cosy British pubs make the city of York well worth a visit.

Possibly one of the most famous University cities in the world, the architecture of Oxford is not to be missed. Highlights of Oxford include University Church of St. Mary the Virgin, Christ Church College and Oxford castle. Many of the University buildings are free to visit – check out this article on the best things to do in Oxford .

Lake District

If you are looking for hiking opportunities and outstanding scenery then head to the Lake District in Cumbria. Kendal and Keswick are good places to start from as a traveller. The area is full of fell mountains and ribbon lakes. Lake Windermere also offers opportunities for water sports including sailing, paddle boarding and kayaking.

Peak District

The Peak District National park is in central England and spans across several counties including Derbyshire and Staffordshire. It is famous for its caves and popular with people who go hiking and caving. Don’t miss Chatsworth House and Peveril Castle. Also head to the beautiful town of Bakewell for the relaxing atmosphere and, of course, a famous Cherry Bakewell tart!

Further reading on Solo Female Travel England

If you plan on spending time as a solo female traveller in England then you might also like to read:

• The most beautiful cities in England
• Blenheim Palace – The finest view in England
• 7 amazing Churches in Oxford
• How to spend one day in Oxford
• Visiting the Churches in Bath

Templeseeker

Hi, I'm Amy and I have over 25 years of travel experience. I love seeking out temples, Churches and other religious and historical buildings. My BA (Religions and Theology) and MA (South Asian Studies) were gained from the University of Manchester. When I'm not blogging about Europe, Asia and the Middle East you will find me at home in Liverpool with my husband and Blake the Patterdale terrier! Come and join me on my templeseeking journey around the world!

12 Great Places To Visit Alone In England

Travelling solo in England is one of the best experiences. It’s quite safe, transport is excellent and the people are friendly. These are some of the best spots to visit, from dynamic cities, to seaside towns and rolling countryside.

England’s rail network has good links around the country. There are coaches connecting cities and towns, and local buses within smaller areas. There’s also the option of hiring a car if you want more flexibility in getting around. Whichever way you decide to travel, there are so many beautiful destinations to explore.

Keep reading to discover the best places to go as a solo traveller in England.

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Although England is so much more than London, the capital is definitely a great place to start if you’re travelling by yourself. You can get pretty much anywhere you like with Transport for London’s tube, buses and overground trains.

The city is packed with world-class attractions, and whatever your interests are, you’re bound to find something to do. If you’re a history buff then London is the perfect destination. Some of the world’s most well known historical buildings are located in London.

From royal residences like Buckingham Palace and Hampton Court Palace to religious monuments like Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral, there is plenty of history to get lost in. London also has a large number of fascinating museums, from the Natural History Museum to the National Portrait Gallery.

There are plenty of options for sightseeing as well. Whether you like to whizz through the city on an open deck tour bus, walk around neighbourhoods or sail down the Thames, you can choose how you want to explore. If you prefer to take it easy and want to avoid the tourist crowds, London has plenty of green spaces including Hyde Park, Primrose Hill and Hampstead Heath.

If it’s raining, head to Kew Gardens for some incredible indoor jungles. You won’t be stuck finding a bargain either, as London is home to a huge variety of markets selling everything from fashion and jewellery, to vintage goods and antiques.

2# Oxford, Oxfordshire

Oxford is a city that’s filled with beautiful old buildings, cobbled streets and picturesque views. Oxford Bus Company has great connections around the city, so you won’t be stuck for transport. Oxford is also a very bike-friendly city and is often the fastest way to get around, so it’s worth renting one out.

Although the city centre isn’t too large, there are still plenty of things that you can see and do in Oxford. It would be pretty hard to visit the city without heading to its famous university. You can take a behind the scenes tour of the University of Oxford with a student , admire its amazing architecture and learn about its history.

Another fun historical site is Oxford Castle and Prison. Visit the exhibitions and listen to the intriguing stories of the people who lived in the castle. Afterwards, climb St George’s Tower to enjoy panoramic views over Oxford.

Those of you who have a green thumb will love a visit to Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum. It’s the UK’s oldest botanic garden and a great place to unwind amongst the greenery.

Another relaxing activity also happens to be a unique, quintessentially Oxford way of seeing the city – punting. Take in the charming old buildings as you float down the River Cherwell. If you’re looking to do a little shopping, the Covered Market has been selling everything from fresh produce to bric a brac since 1774.

3# The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which lies across six different counties. Covering almost 800 square miles, the best way to explore the area would be by car, as it offers you much more flexibility in the places you can visit. There are picturesque English villages, lively market towns, splendid country houses and rolling countryside.

Bourton on Water is a beautiful village nicknamed ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ because the River Windrush flows right through it. Attractions in the village include the Cotswolds Motor Museum and the Model Village. Another charming village is Painswick, known as the Queen of the Cotswolds. It’s home to some of the best-preserved settlements in the area and has some great walking trails.

Cirencester is a lovely market town which was popular during the Roman era, and you can explore the Roman history at the Corinium Museum. For even more history, visit the impressive Berkeley Castle, originally built in the 12th century. If quirky old houses are more of your thing, then head to Snowshill Manor. This traditional Cotswolds manor house is filled with an assemblage of peculiar objects collected by the eccentric architect and artist Charles Paget Wade.

Looking for a longer trip to the Cotswolds without a car? Here are 6 places to stay and how to get around the Cotswolds without a car.

4# St Ives, Cornwall

St Ives is a picturesque seaside town in Cornwall, famous for its fantastic surf beaches and art scene. The views here are second to none, with sparkling blue waters, cobbled streets and whitewashed cottages. It’s pretty easy to get around St Ives on foot or bicycle.

If you’re wanting to explore further out, it’s easiest to rent a car, although there are buses and trains that link St Ives with other coastal towns. If you’re interested in art, St Ives is a great place to be.

Its scenery has attracted artists including Barbara Hepworth, Turner, Henry Moore and Whistler. There are over 30 local art shops and galleries to visit, and some of the best ones are the Tate St Ives, the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden and the New Craftsman Gallery.

Whether you enjoy watersports, paddling or relaxing on the sand, there are many beaches to choose from. From larger beaches like Porthminster and Harbour Beach, to quieter ones like Porthgwidden, you’re bound to find the perfect sandy spot for a picnic.

Another great way to appreciate the sea views is to go on a coastal walk. There are many that you can take, including the St Ives to Carbis Bay walk, St Ives to Zennor walk and the St Ives to Lelant walk. If you’re keen to get out on the ocean, why not take a boat trip to Seal Island. Trips run from the harbour and take you seal spotting – you might also spot sharks, dolphins, porpoises and sea birds.

5# Mersea Island, Essex

Mersea Island is an island in the Blackwater and Colne Estuaries in Essex. The island is connected to the mainland by the Strood, a causeway which often floods at high tide. Before driving over, make sure you check the tide times.

There are also buses which connect Colchester to West Mersea. Although the island is only eight miles square, there is so much to see and do. The waters around Mersea Island are calm and shallow, making it perfect for watersports. Paddleboarding, windsurfing, kitesurfing and sailing are particularly popular.

There are breathtaking views all around and if you have time, you can walk the entire island which takes about five hours. You’ll pass tidal flats, colourful beach huts, the Blackwater Estuary and farm land. If you want a shorter route, take the Cudmore Grove Country Park circular route.

There is evidence of human settlement on the island that dates back to pre-Roman times. It was very popular as a holiday destination for the Romans, as the Roman settlement of Colchester was nearby. Mersea Island was also a significant place for troops during both World Wars.

To explore more of the history, head to Mersea Island Museum which has exhibitions on the local, natural and marine history of the island. After exploring, make sure you sample the freshly caught local seafood. It’s especially known for its oysters which are cultivated from the creeks surrounding the island.

6# Norwich, Norfolk

The historic city of Norwich lies on the River Wensum in Norfolk. It’s a great place to visit solo as it’s safe, friendly and easy to get around. Steeped in history, Norwich is the most complete medieval city in the country, full of cobbled streets, ancient buildings, half-timbered houses and medieval lanes.

The first stop for any traveller should be Norwich Cathedral. This iconic building has over 1,000 colourful roof bosses, sweeping vaulted walkways and the famous cloisters. Norwich Castle is another must-see. Built between 1066 and 1075, the castle served as a jail for most of its life. Take a guided tour and make your way up to the battlements for panoramic views over the city.

Norwich is surrounded by beautiful countryside, and is the perfect place to spend time outdoors. Norwich is located within the Broads National Park, an area of navigable lakes and rivers. The park is filled with footpaths, nature reserves and wildlife parks – the perfect place to get away from it all. The best way to get around is by boat, canoe or kayak.

It’s also easy to explore on foot or by bike, as there many quiet country lanes along the edges of the water. Back in the city, the Plantation Garden is a restored Victorian garden which is packed with colourful flower beds and unique plants. You’ll also find a gothic fountain, Italianate terrace and a rustic bridge.

7# Liverpool, Merseyside

This maritime city is a fantastic destination to visit alone. The city centre is compact and easy to walk around, and the Merseyrail and local buses connect you to surrounding areas. Liverpool is rich in history and culture with world-class attractions.

It’s widely known as the birthplace of The Beatles , who were formed in the city in 1960. Check out The Beatles Story, an immersive walk-through experience with tons of memorabilia and merchandise. There are some amazing tribute acts who perform at The Cavern Club, an iconic live music venue that played a role in the birth of The Beatles.

Why not take a Beatles Tour by Taxi in Liverpool. You will visit iconic sites such as Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields and learn what inspired this great band.

Liverpool has a rich maritime history and was once one of the busiest docks in the world. The waterfront is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and there are many attractions along it to explore. The Royal Albert Dock is a complex of dock buildings and warehouses, which is now a major tourist attraction.

It’s home to the Tate Liverpool, as well as an array of independent shops, boutiques and cafes. The Merseyside Maritime Museum and the Museum of Liverpool are also along the waterfront. The best way to admire the city’s skyline is from the Mersey Ferry, via a hop-on-hop-off ride along the River Mersey.

Liverpool Cathedral is the largest religious building in Britain and is definitely worth a visit. It’s a stunning building, home to the world’s highest and widest Gothic arches, the largest organ in the country and beautiful stained glass windows. Climb to the viewing platform for views across to Wales.

8# Canterbury, Kent

Canterbury is a cathedral city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated on the River Stour, the city is easy to get around. It’s set up for pedestrians, although there are also local buses within the city centre. Canterbury is famous for its cathedral, and no visit to the city would be complete without stepping foot inside one of the oldest Christian structures in England.

The cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, although perhaps it’s best known as the place of murder of Thomas Becket who was killed by King Henry II’s army in 1170. Take a guided tour and trace the steps that pilgrims would’ve made in the Middle Ages.

If you’re more interested in the Romans, the Canterbury Roman Museum is a fascinating place. It’s built on the remains of a former Roman town house, and you can even see the original mosaics as well as other artefacts that were used in everyday life.

If you prefer a more relaxed approach to sightseeing, a boat tour down the River Stour is a unique way to see the city. Spot landmarks like the Dominican Priory and Greyfriars Chapel. There are many green spaces to chill out in too.

Make your way to the Westgate Parks, a formation of four different landscape areas made up of woodland, meadows, gardens and riverside. Culture vultures will love a trip to the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury’s leading performing arts venue. With a wide programme of concerts, dramas, musicals, contemporary dance shows, ballets, operas, comedy shows, you’ll definitely find something you enjoy.

9# Exeter, Devon

Located on the River Exe, Exeter is a cathedral city in Devon. It was heavily influenced by the Romans, Tudors and Victorians, and boasts a rich history which is reflected in its sites and attractions.

Exeter is quite compact and has excellent transport links, so getting around is simple. Exeter Cathedral is one of the prettiest cathedrals from the Medieval era. Take a guided or audio tour to hear the stories of the people who influenced it. Spot the highlights of the cathedral, including the 15th century Astronomical Clock and the Minstrels’ Gallery.

Another historical sight in the city which can’t be missed are the Underground Passages. Unique to Exeter, this web of underground tunnels spreads for 425 metres across the city and were originally used to transport water in medieval times. Make your way through the tunnels on a guided tour.

Take a stroll through the city before stopping at the quayside. This is one of the most picturesque parts of Exeter and has a historically important past. Here you’ll see old warehouses and historic buildings, left behind from when the city was a thriving centre for the wool trade.

There are lots of shops and cafes at the quayside, which is a lovely spot to have a drink by the water. For a little adventure, head out to Haldon Forest Park, a 15 minute drive from the city centre. There is so much to do here, including Nordic walking, cycling, mountain biking and the Go Ape Treetop Adventure.

10# West Yorkshire

West Yorkshire is a county that has everything – cultural cities, quaint market towns and scenic countryside. There are excellent train, coach and bus connections which link villages, towns and cities throughout the county.

For a spot of culture, head to the city of Leeds. It’s home to some wonderful art galleries, museums, theatres and live music venues which offer something to suit all tastes. Leeds Grand Theatre, City Varieties Music Hall and the Leeds Playhouse have a wide programme of events all year round.

Make sure to visit the Royal Armouries and see over 75,000 pieces of arms and armour from around the world. If you’re more interested in sculptures, the Yorkshire Sculpture Park near Wakefield won’t disappoint. The open-air gallery displays modern and contemporary pieces, and is set over 500 acres of parkland.

Experience the charm of a classic Yorkshire village in Haworth, once home to the Brontë sisters. Learn more about the famous bookwrights at the Brontë Parsonage Museum. Haworth is a great place to shop, and its pretty, cobbled High Street is packed with independent shops, boutiques, cafes and artisan bakeries.

The village is a great starting point for different walks on the surrounding moors. If you’re looking for a woodland walk, Hardcastle Crags offers some lovely views. Just north of Hebden Bridge, this woodland valley has over 15 miles of footpath. Make your way past rocky ravines, tranquil streams and alluring waterfalls.

11# The Lake District, Cumbria

A trip to the Lake District is a must when visiting England. Located in Cumbria, its name comes from the collection of glacial lakes that lie amongst the fells, moors and valleys. Its beautiful countryside has inspired writers and artists for centuries, and it’s not hard to see why.

It’s particularly popular with outdoor lovers and has plenty of hikes, walks and cycling trails. The Lakes is a great place to visit alone, as it’s very safe, the people are friendly and there is a wide choice of accommodation all around. The best way of getting around the area is by car, as a lot of the best places to see are quite remote and don’t have public transport links.

A good base for exploring the Lakes is Ambleside, a small town with interesting shops, pretty houses and tons of great restaurants. From here, you can walk to Stockghyll Force, a waterfall walk that boasts sweeping views over the town.

Grasmere is a pretty village filled with stone cottages and cafes. It’s home to Dove Cottage, where the writer William Wordsworth grew up. The Wordsworth Museum and Art Gallery is also located in the village.

Head to Tarn Hows in Coniston Waters for one of the most picturesque views in the area. There is a circular walk around the water which is suitable for all abilities. Another picture-postcard view is Wasdale Head from Wastwater. Wastwater is the deepest lake in the Lake District, and is surrounded by mountains including Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England.

Full-day tours are also offered from Windermere and Oxenholme which is a great way to see the Lake District if you don’t want to rent a car and get the most out of your visit!

12# Chester, Cheshire

Chester was founded as a Roman fortress in the 1st century AD. It’s famous for its city walls which were built by the Romans as a defensive system. Stroll round the three kilometre walls and admire the many picturesque old buildings dotted round the city.

Look out for the Eastgate Clock which marks the original entrance to the Roman fortress of Deva. Another fun way to admire the views is by visiting the Chester Cathedral and climbing to the top of the central tower. It serves some of the best views across one city, two countries and five counties. You can also take a boat tour along the River Dee, where you’ll get to see some of the city’s landmarks as well as an abundance of wildlife.

You can’t visit Chester without going to Chester Zoo. One of the best zoos in the world and notable for its conservation efforts, Chester Zoo is enormous and is home to over 21,000 different animals. There are buses from Chester that travel straight to the zoo.

If you love to shop, Chester is an excellent place to be. Chester Rows is a series of half-timbered buildings dating back to Medieval times, and is now used as shopping arcades. You’ll find big-name brands as well as independent retailers.

To learn more about Chester and the surrounding area, visit the Grosvenor Museum. Housed in a magnificent Renaissance Revival building, you’ll come face to face with Roman artefacts, reconstructions of period houses, silverware, paintings and tombstones.

When travelling solo in England, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to places to see. You’ll find that England is safe to travel around, and the locals are friendly and accommodating. There is so much fascinating history and culture to explore, and whether you prefer cities, towns or the outdoors, you won’t be short of places to visit.

Kat Hi, I'm Kat, an Australian that moved to London in 2013 to start a  new adventure.  What a roller-coaster that was! I love helping others move to the UK  and people  explore the world ! I’d be honoured if you’d say, “Thanks!” with a £3 coffee on Ko-fi.

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Put yourself first: the top 15 solo trips in the UK

T here’s something wonderfully liberating about travelling alone and the following trips fulfil all the best aspects of being solo. No compromises to be made, no itineraries discussed; get up when you want, eat what you fancy, do nothing or everything, talk to the friendly person next to you at breakfast, or pop in your headphones and ignore them completely. When I’m travelling alone, I become the best version of myself; the most decisive, the most charming, the most curious. I see more, go further, strike up conversations with people I’ll never meet again, yet always remember. And even after 25 years of travelling, I still get the same feeling of satisfaction when I’m home – a quiet sense of pleasure that I did it all on my own.

1. Brixham, Devon

The Berryhead Hotel – surrounded by six acres of gardens with lovely views across Torbay – is a rare find: a hotel with single rooms that are actually half the price of doubles ( from £88 B&B, berryheadhotel.com ). It’s an easy walk into picturesque Brixham, where the town’s fishing fleet fuels a clutch of excellent restaurants; pull up a seat at the counter at Simply Fish, a family-owned restaurant where diners pick their choice of seafood from the fresh fish counter ( simplyfishrestaurant.co.uk ).

2. Wells-next-the-sea, Norfolk

Vast skies, tranquil beaches and a delightfully slow pace; the Norfolk coast is a great choice for a solo trip. Book a Cosy Room at the charming Crown Hotel ( from £180 B&B, crownhotelnorfolk.co.uk ), where a complimentary cream tea is the perfect excuse for a lazy afternoon with a book in the comfortable lounge. On a non-cream tea day, book one of the 11 tables at the Wells Crab House, where the friendly team serve delicious seafood, including single oysters and taster portions of everything from crayfish tails to cockles and rollmops ( wellscrabhouse.co.uk ).

3. Camber Sands, East Sussex

Morning yoga classes come free at the lovely Gallivant ( from £215, thegallivant.co.uk ) – a great way to meet fellow guests – along with a weekly programme of classes, encompassing everything from wine-tasting to garden tours. Combine sociability with solo walks along the great swathe of sandy beach at Camber Sands and pop up to the historic town of Rye for supper at the Fig ( thefigrye.com ), with super-friendly staff and a menu of Ottolenghi-esque small plates.

4. Tenby, South Wales

Pack walking boots for a stay in Tenby, where the Pembrokeshire Coast Path leads out on to spectacular clifftop scenery, with the town itself – famous for its picturesque harbour with pastel-hued houses – a lovely friendly spot to return to and ideal for a solo foray. Stay at Trefloyne Manor ( trefloyne.com ), five minutes’ drive out of town and pop in for a spa treatment at the cute Dovecote spa. Pull up a bar stool at Twelve ( twelvetenby.co.uk ), where the friendly bar staff can advise on the ideal glass to match a trio of tapas-style plates – the perfect amount for one.

5. Bude, Cornwall

Get chatting to locals with a kayaking, paddleboarding or surfing class with Free Wave Surf Academy ( freewavesurfacademy.co.uk ), or mix solo strolls along Summerleaze Beach with a dip into the town’s artisan market (Wednesday to Saturday, 10am-3pm). Settle in for a supper of small plates ideally suited for one at Temple (the roof terrace, overlooking Summerleaze, is a dream on warm evenings) and stay at the Beach at Bude ( from £195 B&B, thebeachatbude.co.uk ), a charming Victorian house with rooms decked out in a New England seaside style – with self-catering apartments also available.

6. Buxton, Derbyshire

Fancy a solo spa treat, but don’t want to be marooned in a secluded hotel? The Buxton Crescent Spa ( from £193 B&B, ensanahotels.com ) lies at the heart of the Peak District’s most vibrant town, combining thermal pools – including on the rooftop – with a wide programme of treatments. Beyond the hotel, Buxton is an easily navigable, friendly place; spend an hour browsing the 40,000 secondhand titles in Scrivener’s Books ( scrivenersbooks.co.uk ) before lunch at Noonology, where hearty brunch dishes sit alongside vegan poke bowls and pleasingly indulgent cocktails ( noonology.co.uk ).

7. Hay-on-Wye, Powys

Bookish Hay is ideal for solo travellers; bookshops come with armchairs and assistants who are happy to chat and recommend, there are great walks from the centre of town, and the Granary ( thegranaryhay.co.uk ) is a convivial place for lunch, offering homemade pies, veggie dishes and inventive salads (strawberry and goat’s cheese is particularly good). Atelier Hay is a tranquil bolthole above an art gallery ( from £170, three-night minimum, atelierhay.co.uk ) and if you run out of something to read, the 24-hour open-air Hay Castle Honesty Bookshop ensures you never go to bed without a good book.

8. Ludlow, Shropshire

Surrounded by the rolling hills, Ludlow’s high street is dotted with boutiques, delicatessens and cafés – perfect for a spot of people-watching. A walk along the River Teme gives wonderful views of Ludlow Castle; finish up at the Green Café ( thegreencafe.co.uk ) where small plates of broccoli with melting cheese and orange spice or Ludlow farm steak with green harissa mean you can try two or three dishes without feeling you’ve over ordered. The Cliffe at Dinham ( from £120 B&B, thecliffeatdinham.co.uk ) is a charming restaurant with rooms, 10 minutes’ walk from the centre.

9. Keswick, Cumbria

Who says shepherd’s huts are only for couples? The Mount B&B has a beautiful hut for singles only ( three-night break £240 B&B, themountkeswick.co.uk ), with a woodburning stove and lovely garden views, with the chance to join other guests for breakfasts around the communal dining table in the main house. This is serious walking country, with footpaths from the front door; reward yourself with Mexican-inspired tapas at Es Bar ( esbarltd.co.uk ), with bar seating, dogs welcome and a breezy, chatty atmosphere.

10. Lavenham, Suffolk

The most picturesque of Suffolk’s historic wool towns, Lavenham has a slow-paced arty feel, with a number of art galleries and boutiques that offer an excellent afternoon’s browsing. Number Ten Wine Bar & Kitchen ( ten-lavenham.co.uk ) is a convivial place for lunch or supper, with giant barrels providing great tables for one, while the Swan at Lavenham has a cocoon-like warmth, with cosy bedrooms beneath original 15th-century beams ( Lavenham rooms are ideal for singles, from £171 room-only, theswanatlavenham.co.uk ), and a boutique spa. Dogs are welcome at both places.

11. Canterbury

Set within the Cathedral grounds, the Canterbury Cathedral Lodge is a unique place to stay, with single, en suite rooms ( from £92 B&B, canterburycathedrallodge.org ), with views straight across to the 1,400-year-old church. The rate includes free entry to the cathedral (usually £15), with the city’s historic streets just outside the door. Don’t miss lunch (or just a shopping spree) at the Goods Shed, a daily farmer’s market and restaurant, serving produce from each of the stalls; two starters (maybe octopus, clams and ’nduja or cheddar and truffle beignets) make a perfect meal for one ( thegoodsshed.co.uk ).

Perfect for a solo jaunt, Citizen M has four breezily hip outposts, where the pod-sized rooms are ideal for one ( from £155, citizenm.com ), and the open-plan bar/lounge/restaurant downstairs is a comfortable place to hang out. Borough Market has a great range of places that offer counter dining; Arabica ( arabicalondon.com ) offers lip-smacking Middle Eastern small plates and super-friendly staff, while Wright Brothers ( thewrightbrothers.co.uk ) is so compact it’s almost rude not to start chatting to the person next to you.

With an easily walkable historic centre, boasting both York Minster and a picturesque tangle of pedestrianised streets, York is ideal for a solo weekend break. Book a counter seat at Skosh ( skoshyork.co.uk ), to watch small plates of Orkney crab papads, paratha with whipped aubergine brinjal and Peruvian chocolate tart roll out, and stay at No 1 Guesthouse ( from £138 room-only, guesthousehotels.co.uk ), where the well-stocked pantry means there’s always something to nibble on if you fancy a break from eating alone.

14. Edinburgh

Plan a packed itinerary for a trip to Edinburgh with the Kimpton’s Stay Human concierge, which offers a variety of curated experiences – from city walking tours to coffee tasting or personal shopping – all bookable before you arrive. Book a City Single ( from £252, ihg.com ) and spend an evening at Eleanore, where high stools at communal tables encourage chat between locals and visitors, and the pared-down menu of artfully presented dishes is ideal for a solo dinner ( eleanore.uk ).

15. Bristol

Buzzy and bohemian, Bristol combines West Country warmth with a hip urban feel and a clutch of excellent galleries – from contemporary artworks at the Arnolfini to more than 70 artists, makers and designers at Spike Island ( spikeisland.org.uk ). Book a Broom Cupboard or Shoe Box at the hip Artist’s Residence (from £185, artistresidence.co.uk ) – small rooms with striking artworks that are perfect for one – and bag a seat at the bar at Marmo ( marmo.restaurant ) for their excellent value set lunch (two/three courses £22/25) or a dinner of Italian small plates.

Book yourself into a retreat that’s perfect for pampering solo guests

1. homefield grange, northamptonshire.

Offering tailor-made programmes for everything from weight loss to detox or simple rest and rejuvenation, Homefield Grange offers the chance to restore internal balance with a focus on self-care ( homefieldgrangeretreat.co.uk ).

2. The Glasshouse, Essex

The UK’s first purpose-built wellness retreat, The Glasshouse in Bulphan, Essex, offers a daily programme of wellness activities – from hiking and mindfulness to plant-based cooking – set in seven acres of countryside ( glasshouseretreat.co.uk ).

3. Gaia House, Devon

For those looking for a more spiritual retreat, Gaia offers silent meditation retreats from various Buddhist traditions, led by experienced Dharma teachers. Group retreats last from two to 10 days ( gaiahouse.co.uk ).

4. Glen Dye, Aberdeenshire

Making the most of the spectacular surroundings, Glen Dye offers a wellness programme of foraging walks, forest bathing, wild swimming and Vinyasa yoga, with breathing workshops and a wood-fired sauna to relax in ( glendyecabinsandcottages.com ).

5. The Detox Barn, Suffolk

Book a weekend retreat, courtesy of the dynamic Gavin sisters, who offer yoga classes, guided walks and meditation, vegan suppers and an “intention- setting” session around an open fire ( gavinsisters.co.uk ).

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Solo Female Travel , Europe , Travel Destinations , Travel Inspiration , Travel Tips

Solo female travel in london: everything you need to know.

FMTC Affiliate Disclosure: Blond Wayfarer contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This disclosure pertains to all affiliate links.

Undoubtedly, London is one of the greatest international cities in the world. Which, also means that London is the perfect option for your next solo trip.

On a personal note, I’m smitten with London, especially since I have a Master’s degree in Literature. I mean, the British Library? The Globe? What’s not  to love?

Solo female travel in London might’ve been an expensive treat, but for me, this adventure was well worth the cost. Wandering this city on my own terms, with very few obligations to other people, was divine. Divine.

You don’t need to be a literature lover to enjoy London either. As a destination, London has something for everyone. Truly.

Furthermore, London is a very accessible destination for solo travelers, especially North American travelers, who want to travel internationally for the first time. Despite its size, London thrives on tourism and knows how to accommodate everyone, even in the peak summer season. It’s the perfect place for planning a solo trip to Europe.

Since London has a special place in my heart, I wanted to share all the tips that I learned on my own solo adventures here. For many independent travelers, London is a major bucket list destination that deserves a lot of time and attention, as well as planning. I want to help you. 

Table of Contents

Should You Travel Alone to London?

Argh, as much as I want to say “yes, absolutely, book your airline ticket as soon as you close this post,” I need reel myself in and be realistic. Instead my answer about whether you should travel alone in London is a polite yes, but with caveats. Every solo traveler is different. 

Obviously, if you prefer nature vacations rather than large cities, you might be better off planning a different trip to the United Kingdom.

For example, solo travel in Scotland would absolutely fulfill your needs. England’s northern regions, such as The Lake District, are also delightful. You may even want to spend more time in Liverpool, if you want a mixture of city and nature, due to Liverpool’s easy accessibility to North Wales. 

Furthermore, solo travelers on a budget will want to carefully crunch the numbers for a London vacation. I’m not kidding. As a US citizen, the exchange rate never works in my favor, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it was the same for you. London is expensive. There’s no getting around it. Seriously, my credit card will take awhile to recover from this city, haha. 

However, if you’re a person who loves cities and isn’t turned off the London’s prices or the exchange rates, then this city is the perfect solo trip for you.

You’ll fall in love with all the museum, food, and tour options, and can splash out on more expensive affairs, such as afternoon tea and a late night show. London is a gift that keeps on giving (and if you need more inspiration, I have a great 4 Days in London Itinerary that you should check out). 

New Solo Travelers

But what if this is your very first solo trip overseas? Is London a good option for you? Absolutely!

New solo travelers will greatly appreciate London’s many attractions. Like I said, this city knows how to take care of its tourists. Hotels and hostels will provide an endless amount of map and tour options, which will help fill your days with fantastic activities.

New solo travelers will also love the iconic London experience, such as exploring the Tower of London, sipping Earl Grey at afternoon tea, and cruising on the Thames. 

Honestly, I’ll never forget my first views of Big Ben. London was the trip that “started it all” for me. Not to mention, it’s amazing to see in-person famous architecture that you’ve only ever seen on television or the internet. 

Experienced Solo Travelers

On the flip side, experienced solo travelers will also love London.

As a person who’s traveled extensively in Europe, London was refreshing, because I didn’t have to worry about language barriers. Now, obviously, I don’t hold language barriers against anyone (that would be a bad mindset for a traveler), but everyone speaking English took a bit of pressure off me, which was nice. Even experienced solo travelers need a “break.”

While experienced solo travelers might not be impressed with tourist areas, such as around the London Eye or Leicester Square, London’s abundant neighborhoods have plenty of options away from the hordes of visitors. I spent a lot of my time popping in and out of bookshops, and taking pictures in the prettiest mews around London. 

So, if you have a few solo trips under your belt, don’t be turned off just because London is popular. 

9 Reasons to Travel Alone to London

Still not sure if you wanna go to London alone? Here are some of the best reasons why solo travel to London is amazing. Sure, there are way more than nine, but these ideas will set the wheels in motion.

As always, you’ll want to continue to do your own research about London. These tips are mostly to inspire you to move beyond the anxiety of traveling to London alone and just booking the trip. You know I’m ALL about just booking the trip.

Let’s go! 

Accessible and Easy Public Transportation 

First and foremost, London has a fantastic public transportation system. I’m jealous of their public transportation system even with the strikes and delays. You don’t need a car in London.

Actually, I would avoid having a car in London full stop. Parking is a nightmare, and traffic is jaw-droppingly insane. Furthermore, if you are a visitor from North America or mainland Europe, London is not where you want to learn to drive on the left side of the road. 

For example, if you’re renting a car as part of a larger England roadtrip, then drop your rental at the appropriate airport, and use public transportation for the rest of your time in London. 

The most well known public transit in London is The Tube. This metro system goes all over London and into the suburbs. Trains frequently run. I never had to wait more than ten minutes for a ride. Each station has huge maps, so you’ll always be able to find directions without too much trouble. 

Easy Connections Around the United Kingdom

London is wonderful, but what if you’re doing a solo trip around England? Is London a good place to start your itinerary? Yes, for sure! 

If you want to visit other cities in the UK, London is a great place to start your adventure, because there are so many connections that are frequent, fast, and direct. For instance, I was able to do a couple days in Liverpool since the train ride was direct and only took two and a half hours. 

And if you want to go to Scotland? The Caledonian Sleeper runs services to Scotland’s major cities, including Glasgow and Edinburgh. You can also fly to Scotland,  of course, but there is something … I don’t know, romantic about taking a night train. 

Just make sure to book your train tickets in advance for the best prices. You’ll pay a premium rate waiting until the night before, or the train might even sell out entirely. 

English is (Obviously) Spoken Here

Obviously, this tip applies to native English speakers. I completely understand that English being spoken doesn’t make London an “easier” destination for every single solo traveler in the world. That would be really arrogant of me.

However, if you speak English at home and want a solo trip where you don’t need to worry about language barriers (especially if you’re new to traveling alone), then London is a wonderful option for you. 

I always suggest London as a great first solo trip to Europe to other English speakers. London is a great city to “get your feet wet” before heading to other European cities, such as Madrid or Paris, where English is still spoken, but not at the same level.

Few (If Any) Safety Concerns

I’ll talk about safety later on in this guide (it’s important for solo female travel in London), but one of the things that I loved about London was that safety wasn’t as much of an issue as other cities I’ve visited in the past.

I understand that everyone has different perceptions of safety, so I’m only speaking from my personal experience as a solo female traveler in London.

First of all, I didn’t notice as many petty scams as I did in Paris, Barcelona, and Rome. No one came up to me with a ridiculous friendship bracelet or fake petition. Still, it’s always good practice to keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in packed areas like a crowded Tube station. You don’t want to make it easier for pickpockets if they are present in the crowd.

Ultimately, I felt comfortable wandering around London at night. I think because London is a massive city, people are always out and about, and I personally feel more relaxed in a crowd than on an empty street. London has a lot of things to do alone at night and it would be a shame to miss them.

Londoners “Mind Their Business”

I like that Londoners mind their own business. While isolating to some people, I personally like not standing out in a crowd as a solo traveler. London’s an introvert’s dream come true. You can hang out in book stores, unwind in a pub, explore a museum, and go to a jazz show without a single person pestering you to have a conversation. 

Of course, if you’re a solo traveler looking to make new friends, you might want to join group tours, stay in hostels, or research local meetups to make those meaningful connections. 

Still, London is a great city for solo travelers who don’t want to justify their choices. Londoners are very used to people doing things on their own, and won’t judge you for exploring by your own damn self.

Perfect for a Longer Trip

In London, you don’t need to constantly switch locations if you don’t want to. Sure, seeing several different cities is fun for some people, but it’s also nice to stay in one place to fully enjoy the vibe. Slow travel is popular for a reason.

London is big. Actually, that’s an understatement. One day I clocked close to 40,000 steps, because I had so much that I wanted to see and do. 

Each area of London is very different. You could see the Street Art on Brick Lane and take a Jack the Ripper Tour one day in East London, and then go vintage shopping in Notting Hill in West London the next day, and feel as if you’re visiting two completely different cities.

I suggest staying in London for at least four days before attempting any day trips. 

Plenty of Walking Tours

As a solo traveler, I love going on walking tours. Sure, wandering around a new city and snapping photos is wonderful, but at the same time, I want some richer context and education on the buildings, streets, and people surrounding me. Walking tours open my mind and heart. 

In London, walking tours are everywhere and cover a variety of subjects. If you have a special interest, London probably has a walking tour about that interest, haha. 

Walking Tour Recommendations

• Historical Pub Walking Tour:  Not a fan of going to pubs alone? Want some drinking buddies and cool historic locations at the same time? Then try out this small group historic pub walking tour in London and enjoy your pints. 
• Jack the Ripper Tour:  Honestly, some of these tours are super problematic and exploitative of the women who were brutally killed. I’m also not a fan of “glorifying” serial killers, even from the Victorian Era. However, a few tours “do it right,” including the Jack the Ripper – What About the Women? tour. 
• London Free Tour:  Free walking tours are very popular with backpackers (and other travelers, of course). These tours are a fantastic way to acclimate yourself with a new city, while making new friends and learning some cool history. Sandemans has a great free walking tour that takes you by the most famous landmarks. Just make sure to tip.
• London Walking Food Tour: London has a thriving culinary scene, but eating alone is daunting for some travelers. This acclaimed food tour will have you sampling the best of British cuisine in the comfort of a group.
• Original Harry Potter Locations Tour:  Harry Potter fans will love this tour, especially fans of the movies. The highly rated Harry Potter locations tour will take you to Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square to see the filming sites. Very fun for everyone, including solo travelers.  

Pub Culture

London’s pub culture is great for solo travelers. I loved showing up to a pub for a casual lunch and not standing out as an awkward single traveler, haha. 

For travelers who want to feel more at home, explore your neighborhood and pick a local pub to visit once you’re finished sightseeing for the day. It’s not too hard to strike up a conversation with a bartender or other people in the pub. I find that Londoners are quite friendly once they’ve had a pint or two in them! 

As a side note, exercise caution with the amount of alcohol you drink. England’s “round culture” makes it easy to drink waaaay more than your bargained for! 

Tons of Free Museums 

Last but not least, London has a lot of high quality free museums for solo travelers who want to save a bit of money. You could create a legitimate itinerary strictly around the free museums. There are  a lot  of them.

For instance, on my solo trip to London, I visited both The Victoria and Albert Museum, and The Tate Modern, which was both free to the public (unless you want to go to a special exhibit). It’s easy to spend hours in each museum. Hours. 

Free museums exist for almost every interest. So pick and choose wisely, and remember it’s okay not to see every single museum in London! You’ll just have a wonderful excuse to visit again.

Check out Visit London’s comprehensive Free Museum Guide for more information on the best free museums for you. 

Practical Advice for Solo Female Travel in London

Last but not least, I wanted to share some practical tips for traveling alone to London. These tips are meant to help with safety concerns, packing, hotels, etc. As always, you’ll wanna to do your own research in addition to the information that I provide in this guide. 

Safety Tips for London

Solo female travel in London is linked with safety. No worries, though. Over all, London is a pretty safe city for its size. I’ve already shared a ton of London solo travel safety tips on this blog, and ultimately, if you use a bit of common sense, you shouldn’t have any issues traveling alone in London. 

Normal safety precautions apply. Use a taxi or rideshare late at night if you feel uncomfortable. Don’t feel like you’re obligated to talk to any strangers (seriously, if someone won’t leave you alone, you don’t need to be polite). Book accommodation in neighborhoods where you feel relaxed and welcome. 

I will say that I didn’t experience too much harassment in London. Regardless, it always pays to be mindful, especially as a solo traveler.

How to Get Around London

You will use public transportation to get around London. Renting a car is a disaster waiting to happen, and cabs are prohibitively expensive if you use them all the time. Get used to metros and buses. Don’t fret, though. 

The Tube is easy to navigate, and like I mentioned in this post, there are plenty of maps and signs in the major Tube stations. Public transit police are also very visible and helpful if you truly are baffled about what to do. 

If you want to learn your way around London and learn about the major sites, then another idea is to book a Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus for your solo trip here. These buses stop at London’s major sites, such as Covent Garden and The British Museum, where you can hop off the bus to explore and return at your leisure. 

What to Pack as a Solo Female Traveler in London

London’s packing list is very similar to packing for other large cities, with a few exceptions. Sure, you can buy what you need in London, but it’s gonna cost way more money (more likely than not).

I personally think these items are the essentials that you’ll need for a solo trip to London. 

Solo Travel London Essentials

• Day Pack or Backpack:  Because of all the walking, I loved having a small and stylish backpack in London. London’s a very safe city, but if you’re nervous, check out this cute and compact Pacsafe bag that has anti-theft protection .
• High Quality Sneakers:  No one wears fancy heels or sandals in London. While people dress up, they all invest in  high quality sneakers , because walking 20,000 steps or more in London is the norm. 
• Lightweight Jacket: London’s weather is unpredictable. Wind and rain can happen without warning. So it’s always a good idea to bring an all-weather jacket with you on your trip.
• London Guidebook:  I always enjoy having a physical guidebook to refer to on my trip. Plus, they’re great mementos. Check out Lonely Planet’s London Guide , which you can buy physically or digitally. 
• Spare Phone Charger:  You’ll take loads of pictures and videos in London, and want to keep your phone fully charged. So have a portable charger as you explore this amazing city,
• Travel Insurance:  A London trip costs a lot. I know I sound like a broken record but you need to protect yourself. Don’t skimp on purchasing travel insurance. Sure, the United Kingdom has universal healthcare (aka the NHS), but these services are only for residents. I personally suggest using World Nomads for your travels to London. I’ve used World Nomads several times in the past, and think that their policies are both affordable and comprehensive. 
• Travel Umbrella:  When it rains in London, it  rains , so you need to check the weather forecast and stay prepared. Use a travel umbrella when the wet weather strikes. 
• UK Power Adapter:  In the UK, the power outlets are different from North America and mainland Europe. You will need a special UK Power Adapte r to charge your devices. While some hotels have USB outlets, this is far from universal. 

Where to Stay in London

When planning solo female travel in London, choosing the right place to stay is essential, and you are spoiled for choice. Like, gosh, London has so many amazing options for accommodation.

I will speak to a few great choices, but keep in mind that you might want to research neighborhoods in advance and see what areas best fit “your vibe.”

Accommodation Ideas

• Andaz London Liverpool Street:   Andaz is a trendy and fun hotel chain that appeals to younger travelers. This Andaz is in the perfect spot for seeing East London’s street and is well connected to Liverpool Street Station. See prices on Expedia.com and Booking.com .
• The Rockwell:   This adorable hotel isn’t far from Earls Court Station, which makes it very easy to go to Heathrow Airport, as well as everywhere else in London. They also have a fantastic breakfast available, and the single rooms are super comfortable. Loved my stay here. See prices on Expedia.com and Booking.com .
• Wombats City Hostel London:   This trendy hostel has a lot of shared spaces, including a cool bar and lounge area, that makes it easy to meet fellow travelers. Save money in a dorm or even book your own private room. Perfect for solo travelers who want to socialize. See prices on Expedia.com and Booking.com .

I hope you liked this post all about solo female travel in London. As always, feel free to explore my blog for more information about solo travel in England and beyond! Enjoy London. It’s an incredible place.

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

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Home » Europe » United Kingdom » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in the UK | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in the UK | Destinations & Tips for 2024

Oh, the lands of endless rain and dark humour. Honey, I’m home – and I’m alone.

As far back as history dates, the UK has attracted all kinds of lonely travellers to its shores. Some get to London and call it a day. But those who venture out into the wilderness are greeted with an unlikely, magnificent adventure.

As a British native, my solo female travels started in the UK, with a train ticket and a place on someone’s couch. And it hasn’t changed much in the last 10 years.

Between England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, you find a vastly varied culture, deeply ingrained history, rolling countryside, and maybe a bit of a drinking problem too. And only a handful of lucky travellers really get to delve into it. 

Though the transport systems only get you so far and solo travel in the UK isn’t always a cheap affair. With no one to split the costs with, and the hostel scene being somewhat non-existent, costs can rack up fast.

But that’s why I’m here, love. I’m going to give YOU some of my very best, heartfelt advice – for a country I know a little too well. I’ll share some of my favourite places to travel on my tod, the best things to do, and some top solo travel tips for the UK.

Grab your umbrella, you’ll probably need it.

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Things to Do in the UK When Travelling Solo 

Best solo destinations in the uk, the best travel apps for solo travel in the uk , safety tips for solo travellers in the uk , tips for solo travelling in the uk, final thoughts on solo travel in the uk.

Let’s start at the very beginning. What should you be doing when you’re travelling the UK solo? Easy peasy…

1. Go to the Pub

Obviously, it’s the first thing I do when I get home. Public houses are an ingrained part of British culture. It’s one of our favourite places to gather and enjoy the ramblings of our society with a lukewarm pint of below-par lager. 

And the best bit is how friendly people generally are here. It’s the finest place to strike up a conversation with the bartender or the 80-something-year-old dude who’s been coming here every day since World War II ended. 

Okay, not ideal if you’re not a drinker, but you don’t need to drink…

If you’re stopping for a spot of lunch, you’re going to find a bunch of classic British dishes: fish and chips, pie and peas, toad in the hole, and the British number one… curry. It’s a UK masterpiece: an action-packed activity day ended at a Red Lion that smells like 20-year-old ale. 

2. Take the train to nowhere

If you’re travelling alone in the UK, it’s far from cost-effective to drive. Plus, with one of the most extensive train systems in the world, you can get to most corners of the country this way.

As well as being pretty smooth and comfortable, it’s one of the cheapest ways to get around (bar the bus, which is dreadfully slow and annoying). 

If you’re travelling across Scotland , you really can’t beat train travel: the views are beyond spectacular.

If you love slow travel, engineering history, or even just the idea of taking a route that most backpackers won’t see, the steam train rides through the UK are one of the best things to do as a solo traveller in the UK.

Yeah, you know, Harry Potter’s magical mystery tours train rides. Wait, I’m getting mixed up with some icons here…

3. Museum hop

With all of its many flaws and dark, colonial history, the UK does have one redeeming feature: FREE museums. Yes, you read that correctly – completely free of charge. Just walk straight in, no questions asked.

And I’m not talking a crappy display of replicas and billboards. I’m talking world-renowned museums and galleries. There’s nothing I love more than jumping into a museum filled with insane artefacts and archives, without paying a penny.

Here are some of my favourites:

• Museum of Science – Manchester 
• World Museum – Liverpool 
• National Museum of Scotland – Edinburgh
• Natural History Museum – London 
• National Gallery – London 

4. Heading out for a hike

While many people don’t necessarily think about coming to the UK for trekking, it is certainly one of the best things to do. Whether you venture out completely alone or decide to join a group, it’s the only way you can really see the UK. One that I recommend to newbies is the sunset hike up Snowdon in Wales.

You’ll need a solid pair of hiking boots and a raincoat that you can trust with your life (literally). But you’ll be rewarded with the view that very few of the “yes, I’ve been to the UK – I went to London once” tourists won’t ever imagine in their wildest daydreams. 

And yes, going to the pub after it is the best feeling ever.

As a disclaimer: I do recommend that most treks are better done with a buddy on a safety aspect. Especially if the UK decides to display it’s famously brilliant weather, if things go wrong, you do not want to be stuck in the unknown alone. Experienced hikers in the UK know that you must always  check walking conditions before any hike: the weather sour can turn very fast here.

5. Stay for Christmas

Outside of the USA, the UK has one of the most spectacular Christmas periods. Temperatures drop to snuggly weather, the twinkly lights look lovely, and everyone is happy to ignore the misery of winter for the next 4 weeks. 

Christmas markets in the UK are great for flinging you into the Christmas spirit. They’ll be kicking off in any and every city, so it really doesn’t matter where you are.

In some places, you might catch some snow if you’re lucky. If you can grab an invite for Christmas dinner, you’ll be treated to more food than you can put away. You haven’t lived until you’ve tried Yorkshire puddings and pig in blankets (yes, pig in blankets – I’m a veggie, but I make an exception for these little suckers for Jesus’s bday). 

6. Go to a footy match

Okay, this one’s gonna divide some people. Either you couldn’t give less of a shit about football (in which case, skip my 6th recommendation for things to do in the UK as a solo traveller) or I’ve got your full attention. 

Of course, football culture is hardly a joke in England (sorry Scotland, Ireland, and Wales). We have some of the oldest teams, some of the best stadiums in the world , and a whole heap of hooligan supporters.

If you’re a football fanatic, this is somewhat of a pilgrimage.  It’s one of the best solo UK travel adventures you can add to your list.

Because there is such a lack of good backpacker hostels in the UK , it kind of limits you as a solo traveller – unless you’re camping. So one of the best solo travel tips I can give you is starting in a place that offers good places to stay, loads of cool things to do, and a shedload of cool people to meet.

So that’s why we have to commence with…

Okay, this is obvious, but let’s get it out of the way. London isn’t just a haven for solo travellers in the UK but for anyone from any walk of life. 

Even the most experienced London backpackers know you can spend a lifetime in this city, and you won’t see it all. But without anyone to hold you back, you get a unique perspective into this infamous city. 

That’s the wonder about London Town: the biggest parties are always the most intimate. 

Stay in London’s finest neighbourhoods and discover all those hidden gems that most travellers will never see. I love spending time in Soho and Camden . Albeit expensive, I’ve had some of the most memorable nights watching London life pass me by.

Arguably the most beautiful places in the UK for solo travellers, no one does hospitality like the Scottish. Travelling to Edinburgh is an honour: anyone who enters this majestic city is heavily rewarded.

It took me 25 years until I managed to get to Edinburgh. I was nagged and nagged by my friends who had been and spoke so highly of the city.

It’s not cheap, and finding that budget accommodation was tough. But when I finally got a gap in my calendar that suited an invite off Couchsurfing, I jumped at the chance. I’m now one of those people that nags all my friends that haven’t been to Edinburgh too.

I mean, Harry Potter’s world was heavily inspired by this city, so that can start to paint a picture in your mind of what to expect. As you can see, I’m standing in front of Hogwarts. Edinburgh Castle entry and tour is a little expensive to get in but it’s so worth it if you can swing it.

Manchester has been one of the world’s most influential cities of modern times . As well as being at the forefront of the industrial revolution, they have also influenced music, football, and technology around the world. And these are all things that I have to recommend you see if you’re travelling to the UK alone.

Of course, many football fanatics dream of watching a Manchester United or Manchester City game (or both, but don’t divulge that information while you’re there). Let me warn you, tickets are damn expensive. But if it’s the dream then it’s the dream. 

Not to be mistaken with Londonderry (yes, it’s the same place, but you’d best not be calling it “Londonderry” while you’re there) is a gem in Northern Ireland. With Irish pub culture being that of a global icon, you’ll bet your arse this is where you’re going to find the best pints and conversations in the UK as a solo traveller.

John, George, Paul, Ringo, yes Liverpool, we know: you made The Beatles. 

You couldn’t possibly step foot here without having it rammed down your throat. With everything Beatles could possibly cram into one city. If you’re a music fanatic, it’s pretty much an essential visit. The motherland of 4 of the most monumental figures in music history. 

But besides excessive amounts of tourists based around a band, Liverpool is a groundbreaking city. And actually, they have one of the most friendly and welcoming communities for solo travellers in the UK . Even though it’s close to home, I still love staying at The Pod Hostel here to meet amazing travellers.

Even being the cultural capital of Europe, Liverpool is one of those magical cities that accepts people from all walks of life. Scousers (people from Liverpool) are extremely affectionate. 

Look, I’m not going to say that it’s easy getting yourself over to Wales a on a travel route alone around the UK. The public transport service is pretty limited, which makes things a bit complicated.

But I tell you know, it’s by far my favourite solo escape in the UK. Endless peace, kind people, tasty food, and hills lined with history – actually, I’d go as far it’s one of my absolute favourite places to travel alone .

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

When you’re trotting around England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, it will make a difference if you’ve got access to the internet. Having these essential travel apps to hand changes the experience for solo travellers in the UK so much. It’s like having an external brain in your hand.

• Booking.com and Hostelworld – Make sure you’re scouting both of these platforms for the best prices. However, I’ve found Booking.com to be considerably better in recent months.
• Trainline – Best train travel app with updated timetables and to purchase cheap tickets.
• Railcard – 1/3 off train tickets? Yes mate, I’m in. I’m sorry if you’ve had your 31st birthday, you can’t get a solo railcard again until you’re a senior. But this sucker has saved me an absolute fortune on public transport in the UK.
• Holafly – Getting around the UK is much easier with a SIM card. An e-SIM like Holafly means you can download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card.
• Tinder – It’s not all hook-ups and bad dates. It can also be making friends and even scoring some weed. And hey, my best friend just bagged herself a Tinder husband, soooo…
• Uber – Look, I’m not particularly happy about adding this one to the list but they’re generally better than taxi drivers – especially in London. If you miss the last bus and you’re up shit creek without a paddle, Uber is generally cheaper and much, much safer than normal taxis.
• The National Trust – Find the closest place to see the gorgeous countryside, no matter where you are on the map. Just pop in your postcode and head on out.

While the UK is a safe place for solo travellers, like anywhere, it’s not 100% safe. That doesn’t mean you have anything to worry about, but you do have some things that you should bear in mind. 

Particularly in big cities (London is especially bad) crime is present. Be aware that the VAST majority of visitors never encounter any issues – because there are plenty of ways to avoid them. 

Surprisingly, most people I know who have had issues with theft and robbery are men. This is usually because they think they are safe to walk home from the pub or club at night – when in fact they aren’t. 

From experience, trains and buses can be cancelled last minute. So it’s never a good idea to rely on the last train. There’s always a chance that you’ll be left stranded on a train platform. 

Do not carry weapons. As well as many being illegal, most injuries caused by weapons are actually people who have their own used back on themselves.

• Couchsurf – this is one of the best tips for solo budget travellers. You’ll meet a local who knows a bunch of cool, hidden spots that tourists don’t usually get to see AND save yourself a full night’s accommodation in a usually expensive place. 
• Plan your own trip – Hey, recommendations from people are great. But the world is your oyster! Don’t live someone else’s oyster. If it doesn’t sound like your thing, you don’t have to do it.
• Plan some booked adventures – Look, I wouldn’t always recommend this, but the UK isn’t exactly a backpacker haven. Find some cool UK tours to uncover the beauty and history of this diverse country and also meet like-minded travellers.
• Keep your itinerary flexible – the last thing you want is to fall in love and then have to leave. 
• But contradictory to that… Book ahead – if you know the days and destinations in advance, you’ll save a tonne of money by booking in advance.
• Stay in a hostel – Look, there isn’t much of a hostel scene in the UK outside of the main cities. But it’s worth targeting them, even if it’s just to try to meet some like-minded friends.
• Get good travel insurance – Slip-ups happen when you’re travelling. And in an expensive destination like the UK, this isn’t what you need.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Look, I can shit-talk the UK all day long. But, unless you’re also from the UK, you definitely can’t. Truth is, I love this damn country, warts an’ all.

The humour will always tickle me better than anywhere else, I’ll always be starstruck by the history these little islands have gone through, and I even miss the grey days and rain when I’m away.

Writing this post about solo travel in the UK makes my heart melt. I want everyone in the world to see why we have so much to complain about.

The summers are insanely good: the days are long, the weather is better, and everyone is in good spirits. Truth be told, I can’t think of many places I’d rather be in summer. But just as the law of polarity dictates: the winters are proper shite. If October is creeping in, I wouldn’t bother until March, mate.

• Check out the most beautiful places to visit in the UK   for the most dope solo trip. 
• Mate, you’re a backpacker, find yourself a DOPE hostel in the UK !
• Our ultimate backpacking packing list has all the info you’ll ever need. 
• Crash those waves in the best surfing beaches in the UK.
• Or… hit the trail in Peak District, one of UK’s best national parks.
• And if your plans are big, check out our ultimate Europe backpacking guide.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Traveling to England as a Solo Female Traveler: Safety Tips & Travel Advice

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Traveling solo, especially as a female, can feel intimidating. But I’m here to ease your worries about traveling to England as a solo female traveler with how to stay safe, and why England is a PERFECT destination for solo travelers!

Safety as a Solo Female Traveler

I felt SOOO safe when I traveled around England as a solo female traveler. Throughout my entire trip, I didn’t experience any cat-calling, and no one approached me to give them money, or to buy anything (even in tourist hot-spots!). Everyone kept to themselves, and no one acted erratic and unpredictable.

So what did I do to stay safe as a solo female traveler in England?

Traveling to England as a solo female traveler exceeded my expectations for feeling safe. Compared to other countries, England is easy to travel around and has a low crime rate. I had to keep reminding myself to not get too comfortable. My safety tips below could be used while in England, or anywhere.

Fake it ’til you make it. Pretend to look like you know where you’re going, even if you are lost. Walk with your head up and walk with purpose. It will help you blend in as a local!

If you need to look a map, go somewhere private or be discreet . This is very dependent on where you travel, but in England everyone is looking at their phone. I would sometimes sneak a peek at my phone to get directions (making sure no one could see I was looking at a map).

Don’t stay out late. I probably took this to the extreme, but I would make sure I was back in my hostel by the time it was dark. If I did have to walk around at night (after a play, for example), I made sure I walked home looking confident. In London I walked home at night in the Soho district, and it felt really safe at night. There were people everywhere!

Research neighborhoods . Before I went on my trip I made sure to research which locations were safer than others. In London, I stayed at the SoHostel in Soho and felt safe. It was also busy, next to Oxford Street, and lots of people walking around. I also stayed in Victoria, which was definitely safe, but I was on a side street and it was much more quiet (even during the day), which personally I didn’t like as much.

Listen to your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t do it! This can be for anything – a street that’s too quiet, or someone inviting you out for a drink. Walk down a different street if your gut is telling you to, even if it’s a longer route. If you don’t feel comfortable going out with a stranger, then don’t do it.

Don’t sacrifice your safety for the sake of being nice ! Be okay with saying no to others, and to situations, if it doesn’t feel right. Your safety is much more important.

Keep your belongings secure. Bring a crossbody purse that zippers shut to store your belongings in while you are out sightseeing, and keep a hand on the opening to prevent pickpockets. Back at the accommodation, hide your passport and extra money in your bags and keep them locked up.

Bring a SIM card. As a solo female traveler, I wanted to make sure I could use my phone without depending on wifi, and call someone if I needed to. I ordered a SIM card to be delivered to my home before my trip, and I was able to use my phone the minute I landed!

Pay extra money for safety . If you don’t feel safe walking back somewhere, call for an Uber or Taxi (another reason why having a SIM card for your phone is so important!). Or if an accommodation or the location it’s in doesn’t feel safe, pay the extra money to stay somewhere else.

What else is there to know about traveling to England as a solo traveler?

So now that safety is taken care of… what else makes travelling around England so awesome for solo female travelers?

England is one of the best destinations for traveling solo if it is your first international trip, especially if English is your first language. The communication barrier is very small, so if you are lost or navigating the transit system, it is easy to ask for help or find your way.

Transportation

As a solo female traveler, it is really easy to navigate your way around England. Download the Citymapper s app on your phone so that you can use the public transportation system easily. If you don’t have a SIM card and are depending on wifi, routes can be saved offline.

To get to and from the Airport, there are various options. From Heathrow there is the Heathrow express, or the tube. From Gatwick, there is the Gatwick Express, or the Southbound train (much cheaper!) . Tickets for these can be purchased at the airport when you arrive. I arrived in Gatwick, and purchased an Oyster card and used that for the Southbound train into London.

Group Travel

If you are traveling to England as a solo female traveler, there are no rules saying that you have to be alone the ENTIRE trip. Sometimes it’s nice to break it up and go somewhere with a group! This can help with avoiding loneliness too. Go on a walking tour, a day trip, or a multi-day trip to explore new places. It can take the stress out of organizing transportation, and provides the opportunity to make new friends!

I hope these tips help you feel comfortable traveling to England as a solo female traveler. England was such a great place to travel to as a solo female traveler, especially if it is your first solo trip. I always felt safe and was never in uncomfortable situation. I would definitely recommend it!

Have you been to England on a solo trip, and what was your experience like? Where was your favourite place to travel solo? Let me know in the Comments below!

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The Ultimate Guide to Solo Female Travel in London

02/14/2024 by Guest Blogger 1 Comment

This is a guest post by Alice.

London is one of my favourite cities in the world. I love the energy, the history, the famous sights, the skyscrapers, and the beautiful parks and gardens. It’s a city with so much to offer and it’s also one of the easiest cities to travel solo . 

I’ll be completely honest – I’m not typicaly a solo traveller. I usually explore the world with my fiance, but I recently got back from one of my first solo adventures and it was to London. I found everything so simple . From getting around the city to finding things to do, to finding places to eat. The whole experience was fantastic and I’m even planning another solo trip there soon!

So, if you plan on travelling to London alone, here are my top tips to make it as enjoyable as possible. Trust me, despite being a pretty big city, exploring London solo isn’t half as scary as it seems:

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in London

There are lots of great places to visit in London – and I mean lots! The city is bustling with activity, from the infamous Buckingham Palace to the scenic London Eye. Here are a few places to add to your London bucket list.

Visit the Tower of London

The Tower of London is fantastic. Located on the north side of the Thames (near Tower Bridge), this historic structure was once part of London’s defences. You can see the Crown Jewels, the White Tower, the Battlements, a fairly gruesome torture exhibit, and much more. 

It can get pretty busy, so if you want to avoid the crowds, I recommend getting here early and visiting on a weekday, or book an early access tour .

Tickets aren’t cheap at £33.60 per adult. But if you enjoy history and want to dive into London’s past, there’s no better place to do it. Plus, you can see panoramic views over the Thames and Tower Bridge from the top.

Explore Westminster

When you see photographs of London, they’ll most likely have been taken from this area. If you’re exploring London solo, you can’t miss Westminster. It’s home to Big Ben, The London Eye, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and much more. 

It’s almost always busy, so be extra careful with your belongings. But, there are always so many tourists that it’s pretty safe to visit solo. 

Get off at Westminster Station and you’ll be opposite the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. From there, you can walk across the bridge to the London Eye, or head past the Houses of Parliament to Westminster Abbey.

Top Tip: If you walk down towards the London Eye, cross the road, and walk down the stairs on the other side of the bridge, you’ll come across a great little photography spot. I recommend coming here on a weekday or early morning as it can get quite crowded. 

Visit the Natural History Museum

This attraction combines three of my favourite things: history, beautiful buildings, and free attractions! It’s one of the prettiest museums in the city and is completely free to enter. You’ll need to book tickets online though (the queue to get in is pretty horrendous otherwise),

Inside, you’ll find a huge array of exhibits all divided into different areas. You’ll find birds in one section, big cats in another, insects, fish and sea creatures, and much more. You’ll also be able to see a huge whale skeleton when you enter the museum.

It can easily take about half a day to see everything in the Natural History Museum. Especially if you want to read all the information, attend the shows, and explore all the interactive exhibits. But, this as it’s one of the best free things to do in London – and you can’t beat a freebie, right?

Admire the views from Sky Garden

Speaking of freebies, Sky Garden is another incredible London attraction that won’t cost you a penny. Located just a 15-minute walk from Tower Bridge, this gorgeous spot has grown in fame in recent years. But it’s not hard to see why!

It’s London’s highest public garden and, with a range of flowers, trees, and tropical plants, it’s literally a tropical paradise in the sky. You may also find a queue to get in here, even if you have booked a ticket (which I highly recommend), but it’s worth it for the stunning views over the Thames and Tower Bridge. You could even grab a bite to eat or a cocktail with a view as well!

Walk along the Thames

The most famous river in England, the Thames is pretty hard to miss since many of the city’s top attractions are perched along its banks. Going for a stroll along the riverbank is one of the easiest ways to see a lot of London. 

If you don’t mind long walks, start from Tower Bridge and walk all the way down to the London Eye. It’ll take about 40 minutes, but you’ll pass some iconic landmarks along the way such as Millenium Bridge (a great one for Harry Potter fans), Shakespeare’s Globe, and the HMS Belfast.

Eat street food in Camden Market

Camden Market is one of my favourite spots in the city to grab lunch. I always remember coming here with my mum when I was growing up. We’d wander around the stalls but always end up buying a big bowl of Chinese noodles. It was delicious!

But, there’s lots more than Chinese food here. You’ll be tempted by pizza, hot dogs, tacos, smoothies, deep-fried chicken burgers, Sri Lankan curries, Katsu chicken, and much more. Then, don’t even get me started on the sweets! If you love street food, you will fall in love with Camden Market.

Visit Notting Hill

From the vibrant, grungy Camden to the pretty, pastel Notting Hill, this area of London has much more of an upscale vibe. This is where you’ll find the famous Portobello Market, historic gems like Alice’s Antique Store, and film scene favourites like the pink house from Love Actually. 

One of the best things to do here is to simply have a wander. Explore colourful streets like Lancaster Road and Farm Place and visit the gorgeous Holland Park where you’ll find the Japanese-inspired Kyoto Garden.

How to Get Around London

One of the things I love most about travelling solo in London is how easy it is to get around. The London Underground can get you anywhere within the city centre and the overground can get you to the outskirts and other places in the UK. 

Unfortunately, train strikes are pretty common in London, but the buses (although slower) can get you anywhere the trains can.

For the Underground and London buses, you can buy an Oyster Card or your debit card to pay. An Oyster Card is a prepaid card that you can buy at the larger stations. The card itself costs £7, but you can then top it up every time you travel to London and then swipe it at every station. You can also just swipe your debit card (or credit card, Apple Pay etc) on the ticket barriers. 

There are also zone caps for transport in London. These caps mean you’ll never pay more than a certain amount per day for your travel. As a tourist in London, you’ll typically be in Zones 1-3, meaning your daily spend will cap out at £9.60, no matter how often you use the underground, buses, the DLR, trams, and light trains.

Top Tip: Remember to always use the same method to pay for your public transport in London. If you use different methods, for example, Apple Pay for one payment and then your contactless debit card for another, they won’t count towards the cap and you may be charged more.

How to Meet Others while Travelling Alone in London

First Name:

In such a busy city, it can be tricky to meet new people, especially when everyone always seems to be in a hurry. But, here are my favourite ways to make friends when travelling alone in London.

Group tours

There are so many tours available in London , from free walking tours to double-decker bus tours with afternoon tea. If you’re looking to meet new people, I suggest walking tours as you’re much more likely to be speaking to others during these.

Hostels are a great way to meet people from all over the world. Most solo travelers will stay in hostels either for the affordability or to make new friends. There are lots of great hostels in London (such as Wombats or St Christopher’s Inns ) and many of them have evening activities, games rooms, or bars which are great ways to be sociable. You can also simply strike up a conversation with someone in your dorm room.

This may seem like an unusual way to meet people when travelling, but the British love their pub culture. People will often head down to the pub after work and it’s often easy enough to start a conversation with someone at the bar. 

How to Stay Safe in London

It’s so important to stay safe in London , especially if you’re traveling alone. The city is generally a very safe place to visit and you’re not likely to encounter any violent crime. Follow these simple rules to ensure your safety in London:

Don’t flash your valuables

Like many cities in Europe , the most common problem in London is pickpocketing. I’ve personally never been pickpocketed in London and I’ve visited the city countless times. However, a girl in my dorm room on my last trip had her phone stolen. So, unfortunately, it does happen. 

The only thing you can really do is to be careful with your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Ensure anything valuable is hidden or secure. For instance, if you have a camera, put it away when you’re not using it and ensure the strap is securely around your wrist when you are. 

Likewise, invest in a secure bag . Many backpacks have lockable compartments and, if you’re putting things in our pockets, ensure those pockets have zips.

Stick to touristy areas after dark – avoid alleys and back streets 

London is a touristy city, but if you head slightly off the beaten track, you’ll find a lot of alleyways, and back streets that might be less secure. Try to avoid these at night if possible and stick to the busier, well-lit areas.

Be wise to scams

The amount of times I’ve walked past crowds of tourists watching “magic tricks” on Westminster Bridge that are actually people scamming you for money is unbelievable. Steer clear of anyone trying to offer you a free flower or a free bracelet, only use registered taxis, and always use a VPN when connecting to free wifi.

Stay in regular contact with friends and family

This is so important when you travel solo, but keeping in contact with loved ones back home can help ensure you stay safe. Always tell someone where you are going and if you’ve arrived safely and that way, if something were to happen to you, they’d be able to report it quicker.

Where to Find the Best Food in London

London is amazing for food. It has incredible restaurants with cuisines from all around the world, from traditional British fare to intriguing fusion dishes. Here are a few of the top places to eat in London.

Street markets

One of the best places to eat if you’re solo travelling in London is the street markets. I’ve already mentioned my deep love for Camden Market – honestly, if you don’t visit here, you’re missing out – but there are many other markets in London.

I recommend visiting Borough Market (my second favourite spot after Camden), Pop in Brixton, Old Spitalfields Market, KERB, and Seven Dials Market in Neals Yard. But, don’t limit yourself to this. There are lots of street markets in London and it’s always worth having a look around if you find one.

Food Courts

Another great way to find a huge variety of cuisines under one roof is to explore London’s food court scene. 

Food courts are a little like street markets except it’s much less of a grab-and-go and more of a school-canteen-style scenario. Nonetheless, you still have a lot of choices and these are usually pretty budget-friendly too. 

Some of my favourite food courts include Kingly Court, Mercato Mayfair, and Eataly. 

For authentic Asian cuisine in London, go to Chinatown. There is a range of great food, great prices, and such a vibrant atmosphere. 

The people who own restaurants here tend to be immigrants who have moved to London. You’ll find Chinese, Malaysian, Indian, Vietnamese and many more nationalities here, along with authentic and delicious food.

Traditional pubs

Lastly, you can’t go wrong with a pub in London. Many of these establishments date back years and serve a delightful array of British classics. Fish and chips, steak and ale pie, sausage and mash, and a traditional roast dinner are usually on the menu, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for a hearty English dinner.

The Best Time to Visit London

You can visit London all year round, so the best time to visit depends on what you want to see. 

November to December is the Christmas season in London. The city comes alive with festive lights, decorations, markets, and events. Plus, it’s home to one of the best New Year’s Eve fireworks displays in Europe. So, if you’re feeling festive, this is a great time to visit. 

Spring can be a bit rainy, but prices will be lower than in summer and crowds will also be smaller (excluding Easter and the Bank Holidays in May). For the best chances of good spring weather, visit between late April to May. 

Summer in London is always busy and expensive. But you’ll also find lots going on such as festivals, outdoor cinemas, and events. If you can deal with the prices and the crowds, you’ll also find the best weather in summer. 

However, my personal favourite time to visit London is in the Autumn. Late September to October is perfect with lower prices and smaller crowds compared to the summer months, and still sunny weather. Plus, the autumn foliage in some of the parks and gardens is beautiful.

If you love exploring big cities, you can’t go wrong with a solo trip to London. There’s always something going on and such a range of things to do. From huge museums to boat cruises to historical landmarks, skyline viewpoints, and beautiful parks and gardens, you can stay in London for a month and still not see everything. It’s also a fairly safe city with plenty of budget options and free things to do for solo travellers. Overall, you can’t go wrong with a solo trip to London and I hope this guide convinces you to book the flights!

About the author: Alice is the UK travel blogger behind  Adventures of Alice . Through her blog and social media, she shares stories, itineraries, photography, and practical tips for exploring big cities and the great outdoors. Alice took her first trip abroad in 2016 and has since then been on a non-stop adventure! She created Adventures of Alice to inspire people to explore the unexplored and to show that budget-friendly travel can still be luxurious.

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Caroline says

04/10/2024 at 11:13 am

Wow, this article completely resonates with my solo travel journey! London’s vibe is indeed magnetic, and your tips are spot on for any adventurous soul ready to explore. As a solo female traveler, it’s empowering to see such practical advice. Thanks for sharing your insights

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10 best places for a solo UK holiday according to the travel insiders

By Dominic Oliver

Lover of literature and all things travel. Probably happiest sitting on a tiny plastic stool on the side of a bustling Vietnamese street. Head of Creative Communications for Contiki. 7 years in the travel industry. Currently based in London.

Published on Nov 23, 2023 | 7 min

Sure, planning a trip with your friends/partner/family is fun. But sometimes, the best tonic for the soul is a solo adventure. Maybe that’s why over 70% of Contiki travellers join trips solo …

And sometimes you needn’t look further than your own backyard. For a small country, the UK seriously packs a punch. Sweeping valleys. Sparkling lakes. Charming seaside towns. Quaint villages dotted with thatched cottages and ancient pubs. For all our complaints about the weather, we’ve gotta say – we kinda love it here!

And the best bit? The UK is easy-breezy to travel around, and a great starting point if you’re looking to get stuck into somewhere solo for the first time. That’s why we asked the Contiki Marketing team for their insider tips on the best places to take a solo UK holiday. They didn’t disappoint…

England and Scotland

1. Brighton – Dom, Head of Creative Communications

Once budget airlines started to pop-up British seaside towns became a bit wistful and nostalgic. You know: dilapidated buildings, empty arcades, amusement piers that once teemed with Victorian day-trippers populated by a lone seagull scowling and eating cold chips. But not Brighton.

With its riotous nightlife, thrumming live music scene and winding lanes with quirky shops selling all sorts of curiosities, it’s a bit of a rarity: a truly future-facing coastal town. Plus, the locals are so friendly, the culture so vibrant, that you’re bound to make some new pals when you’re exploring solo.

Getting there: 2-hour drive / 1-hour train ride from London. Why not pop into Brighton for the day before your Contiki departure?

Image source: Ben Guerin / unsplash

2. The Cotswolds – Lottie, Chief Marketing Officer

Picturesque pubs, amazing delis and epic dog walks (a trip with your pooch counts as a solo holiday, okay) – this cluster of villages is the English countryside at its best. From Burford to Bourton on Water, you can basically eat your way around the villages, drinking in the traditional honey-coloured stone houses along the way. There are so many local foods to try – from cheeses to pastries – and with plenty of cafes instead of posh restaurants, you might feel less intimidated when it comes to eating out. Don’t miss Daylesford’s organic farm shop.

Getting there: 2-hour drive / 2.5 hour train ride from London.

12 best places to visit in England if you love all things quintessentially British

3. The Lake District – Charlie, Editorial & Content Executive

If you’re a lover of thick forests, long walks or hikes, and, of course, lakes that span for miles and miles and miles, then you’ll be a big fan of the Lake District. On the North West side of England, tucked just under Scotland, is the Lake District and it’s one of the most picturesque places I’ve been with vibrant green hills and open skies.

My favourite place within the Lakes is Windermere – this little town is dotted with so many cosy shops and cafés to duck into on a particularly windy day. It’s on a hill, and as you walk down the slope you start to see the lakes in all their glittery glory. The weather isn’t always the best, but a little rain never hurt nobody, and it makes it all the more dramatic in my opinion!

Getting there: 6-hour drive / 3.5-hour train ride from London, OR you can visit on Contiki’s England and Scotland trip.

Image source: Contiki

4. Bristol – Liv, Email & CRM Manager

You just can’t get bored in Bristol. I’d recommend doing a fun street art walking tour where you can join and meet new people (and spot a few original Banksy works!). I love walking around Clifton as it’s such a cute area with beautiful houses, book shops and cafes. A great way to finish the day is by watching the sunset from the Clifton Suspension Bridge (if you’re lucky with the weather). If you’re there for a while, you could book a day trip to Bath, which is just 15 minutes away by train.

Getting there: 2.5-hour drive / 1.5-hour train ride from London. Bristol will make the perfect day trip before your Contiki if you’ve got time to kill.

11 best things to do in the UK when you’re in your 20’s

5. Bath – Jimmy, Creative Content Lead

And conveniently, Bath is the next favourite on the list! Bath is a really popular solo getaway in the UK because of the beautiful architecture and the iconic, you guessed it, baths. This town has been featured in many film and TV filming locations including Bridgerton and the soon-to-be-released Wonka , so you’re sure to recognise a few spots in this pretty and idyllic area. The Christmas Markets here aren’t too shabby either, a stop by is well-worth it!

Getting there: 2.5-hour drive / 1.5-hour train ride from London. Nothing to get a Contiki started off right with a quick day trip to Bath!

Image source: James Shaw / unsplash

6. Brownsea Island – Nick, Senior Content Marketing Manager

For an underrated but cute day trip to the South of England, head to Brownsea Island! This island is only a 1 and a half miles long and three quarters of a mile wide so you can walk the whole thing on a bright and sunny day for a wholesome activity. 

To get here you have to head to Poole and then catch a boat to the island. What’s great about this island is that it’s nearly entirely owned by the National Trust so all the beautiful nature and most of the buildings are owned and protected by them. What I especially love about Brownsea Island is that it’s home to lots of red squirrels, which are very rare in the UK, as well as peacocks, so that makes it extra special.

7. Rye – Rachel, Brand Director

Rye in Sussex is perfect for a solo getaway in the UK. This quaint English town is all cobbled streets and antique shops. I also love browsing the local charity shops. There’s a great independent local cinema plus heaps of good places to eat – from modern health food cafes to seafood and pub grub. And the bonus is you’re only 10 minutes from the stunning Camber Sands beaches which stretch for miles and miles.

Getting there: 2-hour drive / 1-hour train ride from London. If you’ve got some spare time before your Contiki departure, pop into Rye!

Image source: Zoltan Tasi / unsplash

8. York – Nico, Data Analyst

York has retained so much of its ancient and storied architecture: from medieval cathedrals, pubs dating back to the 1600s, and the Roman structures. The city is well preserved and holds so much history – the walk along the Roman walls is peaceful and a great way to see the city.

Getting there: 4.5-hour drive / 2-hour train ride from London, OR you can visit on Contiki’s England and Scotland trip.

A Shoestring Guide to the UK’s Scenic South

9. Edinburgh – Tammy, Social Media Executive

I love Edinburgh for lots of reasons, but a big one is because I’m a big Harry Potter nerd and Edinburgh is full of Harry Potter references. The cute and colourful Victoria street inspired Diagon Alley! The other reasons are that it’s really easy to navigate, and the old architecture is really nice and gives Edinburgh a great classic atmosphere.

There’s Edinburgh Castle, which is beautiful, right in the middle of the town, and you can also hike up to Arthur’s Seat which is a really chilled hike to do, especially on a sunny day (yes, they do happen)!

Getting there: 7.5-hour drive / 5.5-hour train ride from London, OR you can visit on Contiki’s England and Scotland trip.

10. Cornwall – Manasi, Product Copywriter

Sunny and serene, Cornwall is a gem amongst British regions. Boasting bright coasts and dramatic cliffs, it’s the perfect solo getaway in the UK for those that love long walks by the sea and getting cosy in that cottage-life. Fresh fish and chips, Cornish pasties filled with stewy goodness, sweet cream teas, and local ice cream – it’s a bit of a foodie haven to be honest!

It’s beautiful in Spring and what’s more is that you can spot dolphins leaping out of the ocean on a lucky day! St. Ives is the most popular town and for good reason as it’s filled with adorable shops and lots and lots and lots of art galleries where you can buy your very own painting of the regional cliffs, beaches, and coves.

Getting there: 5-hour drive / 4.5-hour train ride from London.

8 best places to visit in the UK

Ready to go on your very own solo holiday in the UK? Check out our England trips here !

How to travel alone: top tips for solo travellers

This is the best way to explore great britain and ireland, stop dreaming and make sh*t happen.

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Solo female travel in England

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Is England good for solo travel?

Safety: Very safe

Transport: Easy

Things to do: Fascinating

Food: Above average

Budget: Moderate

Is england worth visiting, solo travel experience.

Travel plan: 4 days in London Safety: I felt completely safe in London. Recommendations: London is incredibly beautiful and it's worth spending time there.

Travel itinerary: 3 days: London 2 days: Oxford 3 days: Cotswolds 2 days: Liverpool Safety: I felt safe even walking at night. Recommendations: London is a very pedestrian-friendly city, and most of the iconic landmarks are located right next to each other.

Travel Plan: 2 days: London 1 day: Seven Sisters Cliffs 1 day: Windsor Castle and Stonehenge 3 days: Cotswolds villages and Bath Safety: I felt very safe. Recommendations: Stonehenge is definitely worth seeing at least once, but I probably wouldn't go back there again.

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Hey!, My name is Rosie and I'm interested in books, culture, events & social, animals, architecture, art, games, health, hiking, nature, photography, rafting, running, sightseeing, trekking and writing

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Can host for:, upcoming visitors to england.

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How to Make the Most of Solo Travel in the UK

Tips and Pointers if You're On Your Own in the United Kingdom

More and more people are choosing to travel on their own these days. If you're thinking of going it alone for the first time, the United Kingdom is an excellent solo travel choice. Read on to find out why.

According to the MMGYGlobal , an international network of travel, tourism and hospitality companies, an international survey in 2018 found that one in four travelers planning trips in the coming year plan to travel solo. TrekSoft , an online booking and software provider for the tour and activites market reports that searches for female solo travel grew by 52% between 2016 and 2017. And VISA's Travel Intentions Study for 2018 found that 23% of travelers site "treating myself" as their reason for travel - a solo motivation if ever there was one.

Don't confuse solo travel with singles travel. Today's solo travelers are not all singles looking to hook up on a sun, sex and sangria holiday - or super fit adventurous young men and women out exploring the lesser known corners of the world. Travel guru Marybeth Bond, who blogs at The Gutsy Traveler , points out that the average adventure traveler these days is a 47-year-old woman who wears a size 12 (also pretty average). She also reported that between 2010 and 2016, the number of women-only travel companies increased by 230% as more and more women traveled solo.

So Who Travels Solo?

Once you get past the obvious - the aforementioned young singles - there's a remarkably wide spectrum of people vacationing and traveling on their own. Sometimes it's because of life circumstances - divorce, separation, job relocations disrupting friendships. Sometimes it's just a practical choice - it may not be possible to link up with friends who can travel when you can, want to see what you want to see and can afford the same vacations that you can. And more and more these days it's a matter of choice with happily coupled-up people choosing to take their own solo trips. 

In the past, unattached adults would pass up an opportunity to travel or compromise on destinations while waiting for a traveling companion to become available. Today, they are more likely to go it alone than ever before. And with a little advanced planning , it is possible to travel completely independently without spending a fortune on single-supplements or feeling out of place in the midst of families and couples.

Why the UK is a Great Solo Travel Destination

Lots of factors make the UK a good choice for first time solo travelers - especially women traveling on their own.

• It's comparatively safe - No place in the world is absolutely, completely safe anymore. But as international destinations go, the UK is among the safest because of its rule of law
• decent police and public safety services
• good fire and safety inspections and practices for hotels, train, roads and public buildings.
• Like most cities, London now as Uber and Lyft drivers as well as lots of mini-cab companies. But as a stranger in town, if you are on your own it's probably best to rely on traditional licensed London black cabs or have your hotel suggest a mini-cab company. 

      And if you get in trouble, emergency medical care is free (but only emergency care).

• There's plenty to do without a partner - On a singles cruise, or in a resort you can find yourself the odd one out among loved-up couples or families. Whether you choose to explore castles and museums, go to the theater, enjoy some shopping or take in amazing scenery, once you start planning your UK vacation, you'll find a lot to do on your own.
• You don't have to worry about single-supplements - In the UK, rooms are charged on a per room per night (prpn) basis rather than by per person per night (pppn). In many situations, if a room is offered as bed & breakfast accommodations, you may actually save a little money since, if there's only one for breakfast, room rates can be reduced.
• The British are very cosmopolitan - People come to the UK from all over the world, for business and for pleasure. Local people are accustomed to visitors, proud of their communities and usually willing to be helpful if approached politely. (Of course, there are always exceptions, so use some common sense when approaching strangers.)

Some Tips About Traveling on Your Own in the UK

• Small is friendlier - Choose small hotels and b&bs with just a few rooms. The owners of such places often enjoy meeting their guests and chatting with them. If you are on your own, they'll want to ensure you feel comfortable. They'll also be good sources of local information - best things to see, best places to visit in the area - and can usually give you accurate up-to-date information on restaurant food and prices. When I stayed at the Avalon in Brighton the owners even invited me to join them at a local pub for a drink. Do be cautious about Airbnb arrangements if you are female and traveling alone. Use your common sense and aim for accommodations offered by women, by couples or by families.
• Don't believe everything you've heard about pubs - Despite the best efforts of the British tourism authorities, lots of pubs are not the friendly welcoming places you might imagine. They don't call them "locals" for nothing. If you want a drink or an inexpensive meal on your own, a pub can be a great place for for a quick, cheap bite to eat. But if you are hoping to meet and talk with local people, you'll probably be disappointed unless the landlord is feeling talkative. Read more about how to cope in a British Pub.
• Be open to encounters - Just because you are traveling on your own, doesn't mean you need to be alone all the time. If people make friendly overtures to you and your common sense tells you it's safe to respond (and you are in the mood) by all means do so. Once, while reviewing a very smart restaurant outside Edinburgh, I struck up a conversation with a group of businessmen from California while enjoying a drink in the restaurant's living room-style bar. A few minutes after we were seated at our separate tables in the dining room, the men sent word inviting me to join them for dinner. I did, had a really nice evening and they even paid the bill! I've met an Aussie backpacker in a B&B who shared her world tour adventures with me; a National Park Warden in a small town cafe who went home and then returned laden with helpful brochures. Once, when I was the only American who had visited a small Welsh town in years, one of the hotel owner's friends (who had worked in the USA) took me home to have tea with his Mum in a cottage by the River Usk.
• In restaurants:
• Don't accept a table hidden away in a dark corner, too close to the kitchen and the toilets. If they can't seat you comfortably, go somewhere else.
• Don't bury your nose in a book, a tablet or a laptop. Bring a notebook or journal and make the occasional note. It makes you look interesting and mysterious rather than lonely and pathetic.
• If you want to try a famous restaurant or Michelin-starred establishment but you're nervous about being on your own, either go early when there will be fewer romantic couples around, or try lunch there instead. Lunch is likely to be a bargain compared to dinner prices as well.
• If you're hungry for some company , join a group activity. Take a city walking tour - Try Joanna Moncrief at Westminster Walks . Her London walking tour groups are small, friendly and full of information. They usually end at a historic or particularly interesting pub. Wherever you are in the UK, the local tourist information office usually runs walking tours - often free - or can introduce you to local guides. Another group tour I recently discovered, Eat London , offers excellent daytime and evening tours exploring some of the capital's best foodie neighborhoods in small, friendly groups. 
• Sign up for a one day course in cookery or some kind of craft. There's nothing like a bit of messy group work to get the cameraderie going. The National Trust often runs workshops and courses at its properties around the country. Just look under the events listing on the specific property website. In London, you can take cooking classes at Books for Cooks , Atelier des Chefs and The Billingsgate Seafood School at Billingsgate Market. In Birmingham, you can learn Michelin level skills at Saturday classes at Simpsons . You could also sign up for a short break with cookery classes at a luxury country house hotel, or check out Nick Wyke's website Looking to Cook for loads more cooking classes.
• Know when it's safe to be alone and when it's not . A daytime walk around historic sites in a city center is fine to do alone. A pub crawl to historic and unusual pubs at night is best done with a group (Check out Westminster Walks, link above, for occasional pub walks). Out in the countryside, walking or cycling on level routes and marked paths between villages and towns is usually safe enough. But if you're thinking of going off piste in the Highlands, the Peak District, the Lake District or Snowdonia, go with someone who knows the territory and the weather conditions.

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The Solo Female Traveler’s Guide To London

Published: October 16, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Gael Swisher

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Introduction

Welcome to the bustling metropolis of London, a city steeped in history, culture, and endless opportunities for exploration. As a solo female traveler, you may have some concerns about navigating this vast city on your own. However, fear not! London is a remarkably safe and welcoming destination for women traveling alone. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your solo adventure in the heart of England.

London is a melting pot of diverse cultures, offering something for every traveler. From iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace to vibrant neighborhoods like Camden Town and Shoreditch, there is no shortage of sights to see and experiences to enjoy. You’ll also have the opportunity to indulge in traditional British cuisine, explore world-class museums and galleries, and shop ’til you drop in eclectic markets and high-end boutiques.

While it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions, London is generally a safe city for solo female travelers. The key is to plan ahead, stay informed, and trust your instincts. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will provide you with the essential tips, recommendations, and insights to ensure a memorable and worry-free experience.

So, get ready to immerse yourself in the charm and vibrancy of London. Grab a cup of tea, put on your walking shoes, and let’s embark on an unforgettable journey through the city that never fails to captivate the hearts of travelers from around the world.

Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers

While London is generally a safe city for solo female travelers, it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind:

• Research Before You Go: Familiarize yourself with the areas you plan to visit and pay attention to any safety advisories or warnings. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with local customs, laws, and emergency contact numbers.
• Stay Connected: Make sure you have a reliable means of communication, such as a working mobile phone or access to Wi-Fi. This will allow you to stay connected with friends or family and easily access maps or travel apps.
• Choose Reputable Accommodations: Opt for accommodations in safe and well-reviewed areas. Look for hotels or guesthouses that have security measures in place, such as 24-hour reception or CCTV.
• Keep Valuables Secure: Use a money belt or a secure bag to keep your valuables, such as passport, money, and electronics, safe and close to your body. Avoid displaying expensive items or large amounts of cash in public.
• Be Mindful of Your Belongings: Watch your belongings in crowded places, such as public transport or tourist attractions. Keep an eye on your bags and be cautious of pickpockets.
• Stay in Well-Lit Areas: When walking alone at night, stick to well-lit and populated areas. If you feel uncomfortable, consider taking a licensed taxi or using a reputable ride-sharing service to get to your destination safely.
• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or you don’t feel comfortable in a situation, trust your instincts and remove yourself from it. It’s better to be cautious than to take unnecessary risks.
• Blend In: While it’s great to express your personal style, dressing modestly and blending in with the locals can help you avoid unwanted attention and make you feel more comfortable.
• Don’t Share Too Much Information: Be cautious about sharing personal information with strangers, especially online or in public places. Use discretion when divulging details about your accommodation or travel plans.
• Meet in Public Places: If you plan to meet locals or fellow travelers, choose public places for the meeting. It’s always better to meet in a well-lit and populated area for safety reasons.
• Learn Basic Self-Defense Techniques: It’s advisable to learn some basic self-defense techniques to make yourself feel more empowered and prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.

Remember, these safety tips are meant to empower and guide you, not discourage you from exploring and enjoying your solo adventure. By following these precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience as you navigate the vibrant streets of London.

Accommodation Options for Solo Female Travelers

When it comes to finding accommodation in London as a solo female traveler, you have a wide range of options to choose from. Here are some recommendations to help you find the perfect place to stay:

• Hotels: London boasts a plethora of hotels ranging from luxurious five-star establishments to budget-friendly options. Staying in a hotel offers convenience, amenities, and a sense of security. Look for hotels with positive reviews and those located in safe and well-connected areas.
• Hostels: If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly and social accommodation option, consider staying in a hostel. London has numerous hostels that cater to solo travelers, offering dormitory-style rooms or private rooms at affordable rates. Additionally, many hostels organize social events and provide opportunities to meet fellow travelers.
• Airbnb: Renting an apartment or a room through Airbnb can be a great way to experience London like a local. You can choose from a wide range of options in different neighborhoods, giving you a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture. Make sure to read reviews and communicate with the host to ensure a safe and comfortable stay.
• Serviced Apartments: For a more home-like experience, consider booking a serviced apartment. These apartments offer more space, a kitchenette, and often come with additional amenities such as laundry facilities. They provide a sense of independence and privacy for solo travelers.
• Women-Only Accommodations: If you prefer to stay in a women-only environment, London has a few options for you. Some hotels and hostels cater exclusively to female travelers, offering additional safety measures and a supportive atmosphere.

When choosing your accommodation, it’s important to consider factors such as location, proximity to public transportation, safety measures, and reviews from previous guests. Read up on the different neighborhoods in London to find the area that aligns with your preferences and interests.

Remember to book your accommodation well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred choice. Whether you prefer the comfort of a hotel, the social atmosphere of a hostel, or the home-like feel of an apartment, London has options to suit every budget and style.

Transportation in London

Getting around London as a solo female traveler is a breeze, thanks to its efficient and extensive transportation network. Here are the various transportation options you can utilize during your stay:

• London Underground: Known as the “Tube,” the London Underground is the city’s subway system. It is fast, reliable, and covers most areas of London. With 11 different lines and numerous stations, you can easily navigate the city using the Underground. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the Tube map and buy an Oyster card for discounted fares.
• Buses: London’s iconic red double-decker buses are a convenient and scenic way to travel. They operate throughout the city, providing access to areas not covered by the Underground. You can use your Oyster card or contactless payment to pay for your bus fare.
• Taxis: Black cabs are a common sight in London and can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi ranks. These licensed taxis are safe and metered, ensuring a reliable and regulated mode of transportation. Alternatively, you can also use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt for convenient and affordable travel.
• Trains: In addition to the Underground, London has an extensive suburban train network called National Rail. This network connects different parts of the city and also provides transportation to destinations outside of London. Check the train schedules and ticket prices for your desired destination.
• Walking: London is a pedestrian-friendly city, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking not only allows you to soak in the city’s atmosphere but also helps you discover hidden gems and appreciate the rich history all around you.
• Cycling: London offers a bike-sharing scheme called Santander Cycles, also known as “Boris Bikes.” You can rent a bike from one of the many docking stations throughout the city and explore London’s streets on two wheels. Just make sure to familiarize yourself with cycling rules and wear a helmet for safety.

As a solo female traveler, it’s important to prioritize your safety when using public transportation. Avoid traveling alone late at night, stick to well-lit areas, and be aware of your surroundings. If you ever feel uncomfortable, opt for licensed taxis or ride-sharing services for a more secure mode of transportation.

One more thing to note is that London’s public transportation system is accessible for individuals with mobility challenges, with many stations equipped with elevators and ramps for easy accessibility.

With the various transportation options available in London, you can navigate the city with ease, making it convenient for you to explore all that this magnificent city has to offer.

Must-Visit Attractions in London

London is a treasure trove of iconic landmarks, historical sites, and cultural wonders. As a solo female traveler, you’ll have a plethora of attractions to explore. Here are just a few must-visit places in the city:

• British Museum: Immerse yourself in thousands of years of history at the British Museum. Home to vast collections from around the world, including the iconic Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles, this museum will take you on a journey through ancient civilizations.
• Tower of London: Discover the rich history of the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the infamous Crown Jewels, walk along the ancient city walls, and learn about the Tower’s role in British history through captivating exhibitions and guided tours.
• Buckingham Palace: No visit to London is complete without a glimpse of Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Watch the Changing the Guard ceremony and marvel at the grandeur of this architectural masterpiece.
• Westminster Abbey: Step into a place of royal coronations, weddings, and burials at Westminster Abbey. This stunning Gothic masterpiece is the final resting place of notable figures such as Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and numerous British monarchs.
• The British Library: Bibliophiles will be in awe at the vast collection housed in the British Library. From ancient manuscripts to literary treasures like Shakespeare’s First Folio, this institution showcases the written heritage of humanity.
• The Tate Modern: Art enthusiasts will delight in the contemporary art collection at the Tate Modern. Located in a former power station on the banks of the River Thames, this museum features masterpieces by artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney.
• The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben: Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the Houses of Parliament, where the UK’s decision-making happens. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture a photo with Big Ben, the iconic clock tower.
• The Coca-Cola London Eye: Take in spectacular panoramic views of the city from the London Eye, the giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank. This popular attraction offers a bird’s eye view of landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard, and the Thames River.
• Camden Town: Dive into the vibrant and eclectic atmosphere of Camden Town. Explore the famous Camden Market, filled with unique shops, food stalls, and live music venues. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in London’s alternative culture.
• The Shard: For a breathtaking view of the city, head to the Shard, London’s tallest building. Take a high-speed elevator to the viewing platform on the 72nd floor and marvel at the panoramic views that stretch for miles.

These are just a few highlights of the many incredible attractions that await you in London. Plan your itinerary based on your interests and be sure to allocate ample time to enjoy the history, culture, and beauty that this remarkable city has to offer.

Exploring London’s Food and Drink Scene

London is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse culinary landscape that caters to every palate. As a solo female traveler, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in a wide array of flavors and cuisines. Here’s a taste of what London’s food and drink scene has to offer:

• Traditional British Cuisine: Don’t miss the chance to savor classic British dishes during your visit. Indulge in hearty comfort foods like fish and chips, bangers and mash, and traditional Sunday roasts.
• Ethnic Cuisine: London is a melting pot of cultures, reflected in its varied culinary offerings. Explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, such as Chinatown, Little India, and Borough Market, to sample cuisines from around the world.
• Afternoon Tea: Indulge in a quintessentially British tradition by enjoying afternoon tea. Treat yourself to a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of exquisite teas at one of London’s charming tea rooms or upscale hotels.
• Street Food: London’s street food scene is thriving, with numerous markets and food stalls offering a wide range of delicious and affordable eats. Head to places like Camden Market, Borough Market, or Brick Lane for a mouthwatering culinary adventure.
• Michelin-Starred Dining: For a truly memorable dining experience, consider treating yourself to a meal at one of London’s Michelin-starred restaurants. With options ranging from innovative fusion cuisine to classic French gastronomy, the city has something to satisfy even the most discerning food enthusiasts.
• Craft Beer and Cocktail Bars: London has a vibrant bar scene, offering a wide selection of craft beers, innovative cocktails, and speakeasy-style establishments. Explore areas like Shoreditch, Soho, and Covent Garden for a taste of the city’s buzzing nightlife.

When exploring the food and drink scene, don’t forget to engage with the locals and ask for their recommendations. Londoners are passionate about their city and are often eager to share their favorite hidden gems.

Additionally, be mindful of your budget and plan accordingly. While some restaurants may be on the pricier side, London also offers plenty of affordable dining options, including charming neighborhood cafes and budget-friendly food markets.

Whether you’re craving traditional British fare, seeking international culinary delights, or looking to immerse yourself in the trendy bar scene, London’s food and drink offerings will leave you satisfied and eager for more.

Shopping and Souvenir Ideas in London

London is a paradise for shoppers, offering an eclectic mix of high-end boutiques, bustling markets, and quirky independent stores. As a solo female traveler, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to indulge in some retail therapy and find unique souvenirs to commemorate your visit. Here are some shopping and souvenir ideas to consider:

• Oxford Street: As one of the world’s most famous shopping destinations, Oxford Street is a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts. This bustling street is lined with flagship stores of renowned brands and department stores like Selfridges and John Lewis.
• Covent Garden: Located in the heart of the city, Covent Garden is a vibrant shopping district known for its boutique shops, stylish fashion boutiques, and bustling market stalls. Explore the quirky stores in the Apple Market and pick up handmade crafts, jewelry, and artisanal products.
• Camden Market: For a unique and alternative shopping experience, head to Camden Market. Filled with indie stores, vintage shops, and street food stalls, this market is perfect for finding one-of-a-kind clothing, accessories, and funky souvenirs.
• Portobello Road Market: Explore the world-famous Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill. With its colorful array of antique shops, vintage boutiques, and street vendors, you’ll discover an eclectic mix of clothing, antiques, and collectibles.
• Regent Street and Carnaby Street: Regent Street and nearby Carnaby Street are renowned for their stylish shops and cutting-edge fashion. Browse through flagship stores of international brands and uncover unique British designers.
• Souvenir Shops: London is dotted with souvenir shops, especially in tourist areas like Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square. These shops offer a wide range of London-themed souvenirs, including postcards, keychains, t-shirts, and miniature replicas of iconic landmarks.
• British Food and Drink: Stock up on quintessential British food and drink to bring a taste of London back home with you. Visit stores like Fortnum & Mason or Harrods to find a selection of traditional teas, biscuits, jams, and other delectable treats.
• Vintage and Thrift Stores: London has a thriving vintage and thrift store scene, offering a treasure trove of unique clothing, accessories, and homeware. Explore popular vintage markets like Brick Lane, the Vintage Emporium in Shoreditch, and Rokit in Covent Garden.

When shopping in London, be sure to keep an eye out for VAT (Value Added Tax) refunds for eligible purchases. Many stores offer tax-free shopping for visitors, allowing you to save some money on your purchases.

Remember, shopping is not just about acquiring material possessions but also about exploring the local culture and finding pieces that hold memories of your London adventure. So, embrace the exciting shopping scene and discover hidden gems as you immerse yourself in the vibrant streets of London.

Cultural Etiquette and Customs in London

London is a diverse and multicultural city, where people from different backgrounds and cultures coexist harmoniously. As a solo female traveler visiting this vibrant city, it is helpful to be aware of the cultural etiquette and customs to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Greetings: When meeting someone new, a simple handshake is the common form of greeting in London. However, it is becoming increasingly common for friends and acquaintances to greet each other with a hug or a kiss on the cheek. Pay attention to the other person’s cues to determine the appropriate form of greeting.
• Punctuality: Londoners value punctuality, so it is considered polite to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, or social gatherings. If you anticipate being late, it is courteous to inform the other party in advance.
• Polite Language: Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in London. Saying “please” and “thank you” is expected and appreciated in all interactions, whether it be ordering food, asking for directions, or engaging in everyday conversations.
• Respect Personal Space: Londoners value personal space and privacy. It is important to respect people’s boundaries and avoid standing too close or touching someone without their consent.
• Queuing: Queuing (forming a line) is a key aspect of British culture. Whether waiting for public transport, entering a museum, or purchasing items in a shop, it is customary to wait patiently in line and take turns in an orderly manner.
• Tipping: Tipping is customary in London, particularly in restaurants, bars, and taxis. It is common to leave a gratuity of around 10-15% of the total bill if you receive good service. However, always check the bill as some establishments may include a service charge.
• Socializing: Londoners are generally friendly and open to conversation, but they also value their personal space. It is customary to respect people’s privacy and not engage in overly intrusive or personal conversations with strangers, unless given permission.
• Respecting Cultural Diversity: London is a melting pot of cultures and religions. It is important to respect and be mindful of different customs, beliefs, and practices. Avoid making derogatory or insensitive remarks about cultures, religions, or ethnicities.
• Dress Code: London is a cosmopolitan city with a diverse range of fashion styles. It is generally acceptable to dress casually in most situations, but some upscale restaurants, theaters, or events may have a dress code. Dress appropriately for the occasion, and when visiting places of worship, dress modestly and respectfully.
• Photography: When taking photographs of people or landmarks, be respectful of others’ privacy and rights. Always ask for permission before taking someone’s photo, and be mindful of any restrictions on photography at certain locations or events.

By observing these cultural etiquette and customs, you will show respect to the local culture and enhance your interactions with the people of London. Remember, embracing diversity and being considerate of others’ customs will contribute to a positive and enriching experience in the capital city of England.

Solo Female Traveler-Friendly Activities in London

London is a city that offers a multitude of activities and experiences for solo female travelers. Whether you are seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or relaxation, there are plenty of options to cater to your interests. Here are some solo female traveler-friendly activities to consider during your time in London:

• Take a Guided Walking Tour: Joining a guided walking tour is a fantastic way to explore the city, learn about its history, and meet fellow travelers. There are numerous walking tours available, covering various themes like history, street art, food, and more.
• Visit Museums and Galleries: London is home to world-class museums and galleries, many of which offer free admission. Explore the British Museum, Tate Modern, National Gallery, and Victoria and Albert Museum to immerse yourself in art, culture, and history.
• Relax in the Royal Parks: London is famous for its beautiful parks, such as Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and St. James’s Park. Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a picnic, or simply find a peaceful spot to unwind and people-watch.
• Experience West End Theatre: Catch a show in London’s iconic West End, known for its world-class theater productions. From musicals to dramas, there is something for every theatrical taste.
• Indulge in Shopping: Treat yourself to a shopping spree in London’s renowned shopping districts like Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Carnaby Street. Explore quirky boutiques, luxury brands, and unique markets to find the perfect souvenirs or add to your wardrobe.
• Discover Harry Potter Magic: If you’re a Harry Potter fan, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. Explore the sets, props, and costumes from the beloved movie series and immerse yourself in the wizarding world.
• Explore Borough Market: Food enthusiasts will delight in the vibrant atmosphere of Borough Market. Sample delicious street food, pick up fresh produce, and browse through specialty stalls offering gourmet delights.
• Take a Thames River Cruise: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the iconic River Thames. Choose from various options, such as a sightseeing cruise or a dinner cruise, to enjoy panoramic views of London’s landmarks.
• Join a Food Tour: Embark on a culinary adventure by joining a food tour, where you can taste your way through London’s diverse food scene. Learn about the city’s history and culture as you savor delicious treats from different neighborhoods.
• Immerse Yourself in the Music Scene: London has a thriving music scene, with venues ranging from intimate jazz clubs to large concert arenas. Catch a live performance of your favorite artist or discover new music in one of the city’s many music venues.

These activities provide solo female travelers with the chance to delve into London’s culture, history, entertainment, and gastronomy while enjoying the freedom and flexibility of exploring at your own pace.

Remember to prioritize your safety, plan your activities in advance, and trust your instincts. London offers a wealth of solo traveler-friendly experiences that will ensure you have the time of your life in this captivating city.

Networking and Connecting with Locals in London

One of the joys of solo travel is the opportunity to meet new people and forge connections with locals. London is a lively and multicultural city, making it easy to network and interact with people from various backgrounds. Here are some tips to help you connect with locals during your time in London:

• Join Meetup Groups: Meetup is a popular platform that facilitates gatherings around shared interests. Join London-based Meetup groups based on your hobbies, such as hiking, photography, or language exchange. You’ll have the chance to meet like-minded individuals and participate in activities together.
• Take Part in Workshops and Classes: London offers a wide range of workshops and classes that cater to different interests. Consider enrolling in a cooking class, art workshop, or yoga session. These activities not only allow you to learn something new but also provide a great opportunity to connect with locals who share your passions.
• Attend Local Events: Keep an eye out for local events happening in London, such as festivals, art exhibitions, or live performances. Attending these events not only allows you to experience the city’s vibrant culture but also provides an opportunity to meet and engage with locals who share your interests.
• Explore Co-working Spaces and Cafes: If you are a digital nomad or someone who needs to work remotely, consider working from co-working spaces or cafes. These spaces often have a friendly and sociable atmosphere, making it easier to strike up conversations with other professionals or locals.
• Volunteer: Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community while making meaningful connections. Numerous organizations in London welcome volunteers and offer opportunities to get involved in a variety of causes. Not only will you meet locals who are passionate about making a difference, but you’ll also gain a deeper understanding of the city and its people.
• Engage in Local Sports and Activities: If you enjoy sports or outdoor activities, take part in local teams, clubs, or group activities. Whether it’s joining a running club, trying your hand at cricket, or participating in a fitness class, these activities provide an opportunity to connect with locals who share your interests.
• Utilize Social Media: Engage with London-based social media groups and platforms to connect with locals. Follow local accounts on Instagram, join Facebook groups focused on London, or use platforms like Twitter or Reddit to ask for recommendations or seek advice from locals.
• Strike Up Conversations: Londoners are generally friendly and approachable. Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with locals whether it’s in a coffee shop, at a park, or while enjoying the city’s attractions. A simple smile and friendly greeting can often lead to interesting and unexpected connections.

Remember, building connections takes time and effort. Be open, curious, and respectful while engaging with locals. Embrace the opportunity to learn from their perspective and share your own experiences.

London is a city that embraces diversity and welcomes travelers from all walks of life. By networking and connecting with locals, you can truly enhance your experience and gain a deeper understanding of this vibrant city and its people.

London, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for exploration, is the perfect destination for solo female travelers. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this bustling metropolis offers a plethora of experiences that cater to everyone’s interests and preferences.

In this comprehensive guide, we have covered various aspects of traveling to London as a solo female traveler. From safety tips to accommodation options, transportation, must-visit attractions, food and drink scene, shopping, cultural etiquette, and connecting with locals, we have provided you with valuable insights and recommendations to make the most of your adventure.

Remember to prioritize your safety, stay informed about your surroundings, and trust your instincts. London is generally a safe city, but it’s always important to take necessary precautions as you would when traveling to any destination.

Immerse yourself in the city’s history and culture as you visit iconic landmarks, explore world-class museums, indulge in diverse cuisine, and discover hidden gems tucked away in lively neighborhoods.

But beyond the sights and attractions, don’t forget to embrace the spirit of adventure and connect with the locals. Engage in conversations, participate in activities, and forge meaningful connections that will enhance your experience and offer a deeper understanding of London and its people.

As a solo female traveler, you have the freedom to create your own itinerary, explore at your own pace, and savor the joys of independence. London welcomes you with open arms, ready to enchant you with its charm and provide you with unforgettable memories.

So, pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and set off on your solo journey through the captivating streets of London. Get lost in its fascinating history, indulge in its diverse culinary delights, and connect with its vibrant community. London awaits you with endless possibilities and a warm embrace.

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A Guide to Travelling the UK Solo

UK solo travel can be the starting point for many to dip their toes into the waters of adventure. While the climate is cooler, the landscapes are to be admired and the locals are on hand to direct the way when you lose your bearings. But where do you start? With four countries making up Great Britain, it can be a lot of ground to cover for a solo traveller. Our guide to solo travelling the British Isles dives into what you need to know before booking your place on the plane. Coming up in this guide:

Why Travel Solo in the UK?

• UK Destinations to Visit When Travelling Alone
• Top Tips for Solo Travelling to the UK

How to Travel Solo Around the UK

The UK, with its diverse cultural landscapes, serves as the perfect canvas for touring as solo adventurers . Here, you can wander at your own pace, set your itinerary, and delve into the depths of your curiosity, all the while enjoying an array of experiences. Whether it's diving into the landscape's history, savouring the local cuisine, or engaging with the locals. Solo travel in the UK is more than just a journey, it's a chance to reconnect with yourself while discovering the world outside. But we understand that the idea of travelling alone for the first time can sometimes feel overwhelming. Which is why, once you take the plunge, you realise it’s a beautiful symphony of freedom and self-discovery. We like to think you’re never truly alone. There are so many people following the same path that you walk, which can be reassuring in small moments of doubt. Sharing our experiences through our solo travel guides can be the perfect starting point to helping you figure out your first steps. From booking your first trip, to combining a holiday with a small-group tour , we can help navigate the way.

Which UK Destinations are Best for Solo Travellers?

Knowing the best solo travel destinations to visit while in the UK can make planning your holiday a lot easier.

Touring around Scotland on your UK solo travels feels like stepping into an enchanting storybook. It's where the misty highlands meet the majestic castles, and the city's heartbeat synchronises with folk tales. Whether you let the wild and untouched Isle of Skye unfold its beauty before your eyes, or you delve into the age-old mysteries of Loch Ness , Scotland's sheer natural beauty, blended with its rich history, makes it a paradise for solo travellers when visiting the UK. Be sure to check out our Scottish solo travel guide for a more in-depth view into the locations you can visit.

• To experience the wild and mystical mountain location of Scotland, book a tour of the Scottish Highlands
• Love Outlander ? Pretend to be your favourite character on one of our Outlander tours
• Tempted to try the finest whisky in the world? We may be biassed, but you’ll only know if you book onto one of our whisky tours  

When travelling solo in the UK, an England tour is a must. A location where past meets present, cities hum with vibrant energy, and tranquillity finds a home in the countryside. From the pulsating heart of the capital, London, to the serene idyll of The Lake District , England showcases a delightful contrast no matter where your internal compass directs you. Explore the birthplace of William Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon , wander through the architecturally stunning lanes of Oxford and Cambridge, or immerse yourself in the timeless charm of York. Travelling the UK solo, you can take a step back in time as you stroll through the cobblestone streets of Bath on a tour , where an age-old charm has been beautifully preserved in the face of modernity. Here in England, each winding alley, every bustling town square and quiet hamlet unfold like pages from a riveting novel, captivating the solo traveller's heart and feeding their curiosity.

• For nature photography lovers, booking a trip to The Lake District will leave you stunned by the quantity of gorgeous views
• If you like to incorporate the golden sand and rocky coves on your holidays, look to book a tour of Devon and Cornwall
• For charming hamlets and country pubs, you’d enjoy a tour of The Cotswolds  

Northern Ireland

Be captivated by tours of Northern Ireland . Where culture springs from every corner, natural beauty abounds, and the urban landscapes echo stories of resilience. Explore the hallowed walls of Derry, feel the myths come alive at the Giant's Causeway, or tour Belfast’s dynamic cityscape . This corner of the world is a journey through time, a place where stories are written into the land, welcoming the UK solo traveller with a pint of Guinness and a tale to tell. If you have time, why not explore more of what Ireland can offer when travelling the UK solo? Our tours from Dublin and Belfast allow you access to the history soaked streets, the pub-ridden alleys, and all the beauty of the authentic emerald isle. Ready to go?

• If you’re looking to explore the West Coast of Ireland, our Wild Atlantic Way tours can be the perfect experience
• For Irish trips including heritage, beautiful beaches, and local stories, look no further than our Dingle Peninsula tours
• If you want to experience a must-see Irish landmark, with the addition of seabirds and spectacular views, book one of our Cliffs of Moher tours  

Tour Wales when you take part in a British solo travel adventure. A land where legends are born, heroes are long remembered, and the landscapes sing of centuries past. Roam the electric streets of Cardiff with its perfect blend of history and modernity, witness the all encompassing view of Snowdonia National Park, or fade into the history of ruined castles on a castle tour . Unfold Wales like a storybook on your UK solo travels, each page more captivating than the last. Ready to write your own story?

• To experience nature's natural beauty in all its glory, you’ll not want to miss our tours of Snowdonia
• If you're travelling out of peak, in the cooler months, and want to experience the beauty of the UK, discover our winter tours available to book for 2023/2024
• Been on a Rabbie’s small-group tour before and want to try something new? Explore our new tours and departure points to find a holiday to remember

5 Top Tips for Solo Travelling to the UK

Embarking on a solo adventure in the British Isles can be an exhilarating experience, offering a sense of freedom that is rarely matched. But it also invites its own unique set of challenges. To help you navigate this exciting journey, here are some solo travel tips designed to enhance your UK adventure, keeping it as smooth as it is memorable.

• Bring a jacket no matter the season - Solo travellers visiting the UK for the first time should understand from the offset that the weather can be… unpredictable. Whether you tour in autumn , the summer, or in time for the Spring equinox , a jacket can help to brave off the rain or provide light protection from the warming sun.
• Connect with locals - You’ll discover that travelling solo in Great Britain doesn't mean travelling alone. Quite the contrary. This land thrives on a sense of community, enveloping even the lone traveller in its warm embrace. While in the country, connect with cheery locals who love to share tales and laughter over a pint at the local pub. And remember, an open ear is the key to this companionship.
• Prioritise safety - Safety can be one of the most important aspects of UK solo travel, especially true for solo female travellers. Stay in well-trafficked and well-lit areas, especially at night. Share your itinerary with someone you trust, and keep emergency contacts handy. It’s not about painting a picture of fear, it’s about smart and safe travels.
• UK currency - The UK uses great British pounds with the addition of Euros in Ireland (GBP / EURO). You can exchange money before arriving, if flying from overseas, and be sure to look around for the best exchange rate. Currency converter tools can be helpful to shop around for the best deal before your holiday.
• Best time to visit - The best time to visit Great Britain on a solo trip can be in the summer season. The weather is warm and inviting and many outdoor attractions can stay open for longer due to natural lighting. However, Spring (late March to early June) or Autumn (September to November) can also be an ideal time to visit if you want a more peaceful experience. The weather can be dry and as it's out of peak season it may not be as crowded at tourist hotspots.

Remember, travelling solo in the UK is all about pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and embracing new perspectives. You have the power to script your own journey and the thrill lies in finding your own path. So why wait?

Travelling around the British Isles as a solo traveller can be relatively easy. With the vast array of public transport connections across the countries, or booking on a small-group tour, you can cover multiple destinations over a short period of time.

Feel Companionship on Small-Group Tours

At Rabbie's, we believe that solo travel doesn't mean travelling alone. Our small-group tours offer the safety and camaraderie of a group while retaining the freedom of solo travel. And it’s not just the UK you can explore. Our teams tour Europe , providing the beautiful landscapes of Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Switzerland. Experience our warmth as we guide you through the offbeat paths, challenge your perspectives with our stories, and ignite your curiosity with our unique itineraries. What are you waiting for?

Follow Independence on Public Transport

​​The UK boasts an extensive and efficient public transport system. Be it the iconic London Underground, the vast railway network, or the numerous bus services, getting around is easy. Learn about the train stations in England and the train stations in Scotland to help plan your route effectively.

Expand Your Horizons with Rabbie’s

If you're feeling that anticipatory thrill of embarking on a UK solo travel journey, you're on the right track. It's normal to feel a flutter of nerves, but let’s help transform that into sheer excitement. With our team, planning isn't a chore, it's the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. So, to all our solo explorers out there, it's time to go beyond the conventional, uncover the hidden, and live like the locals. Stay updated with our latest tours and departure points by signing up for our newsletter . We make sure that your solo UK travels becomes not just a trip, but an enchanting story worth sharing.

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in London

London is a fantastic city for solos. This British capital has history, sightseeing, tours for all different types of interests and plenty of rooftop bars. Having previously lived here for two years, I've put together a solo guide for London.

Find out where to eat and drink as a solo, activities for all types of solos and recommended places to stay. Click on the relevant section or read the whole article to find out more about what to see and do in England's capital. I hope you love your time in London as much as I did!

• About London 

The London Pass

• Sightseeing For Solos

Things To Do in London

London markets.

• Activities For Every Solo

Don't Have Much Time?

• What To Do in The Evenings

Accommodation in London

Getting around london.

• Where To Eat and Drink
• Free Things To Do in London in 24 hours  

About London

The capital of England is a must for any traveller. With the obvious landmarks to be seen, hidden gems to be discovered, history to learn and trips to the outskirts to be taken, there is much more to London than meets the eye. I find that no matter how often I go to London I always find something new. Whether it be a new fact, a new bar or just a new street.

The actual City of London is only about a square mile, and was founded by the Romans. This historic district contains St Paul's Cathedral, Temple Church and the Tower of London and is one of the world’s great financial centres. The city grew from this small section and now has 33 boroughs and is more than 30 miles from east to west.

The London attractions are on the north of the River Thames, such as Westminster, where you’ll find the royal and political power base. Here you will find the palace, Tower Bridge, and Big Ben. The West End needs no introduction and is home to great musicals and shows. South of the river does have attractions too and is worth exploring. Southwark, Tate Modern and the Globe can all be found on the South Bank. Further afield Greenwich and Windsor are worth a visit. From London you’ll also find day tours to the famous Universities of Oxford and Cambridge.

*  Click here for all tours and activities to do in London  

Don’t be put off by the hustle and bustle of this great city, it always takes me a few hours to adjust to the pace of life here. Once you get into it you’ll learn to love it. And if you do need a break from it all there are plenty of quiet spots to be found in parks, museums and along the river.

London is extremely diverse. In this amazing city you will find culture and cuisine from around the world. The people are actually friendlier than the media makes out. Just give them a bit of time and they’ll come round, they tend to just be cautious or in a hurry, and not unfriendly. Here are the travel tips in London solo. 

Solo’s Tip – “Go on a free tour of the city, there are plenty to choose from. It’s a great way to get your bearings, some advice and even make some friends.”

Local’s Tip – “For a cheap show go to the Globe. You can see a Shakespeare for £5, as long as you don’t mind standing.”

Types of Girls about the Globe (GatG) – Arty & Museums GatG,  Cultural GatG, Sightseeing GatG

Stay for – At least 3 nights for an overview, longer if you want to fully explore the city.

Safety Tips – London is a capital city so be vigilant. Don’t keep anything in your back pocket, keeps bags close and don’t go down any secluded streets at night.

Did you know? Big Ben is not actually the name of the famous clock tower, it is the name of the bell inside. So when you “see Big Ben” you actually just see the clock tower and not Big Ben itself, though you may hear it!

If you're planning to stay at least 24 hours in London and sightsee, and are wondering what things to see in London, it may be more cost effective to look into getting a London Pass. The London Pass offers access to 80+ top London attractions. Save money on attractions when you visit London and enjoy fast-track entry at selected attractions. A one day hop-on hop-off London bus is also included. Choose a pass for the number of days that you'll be in London. You can choose from 1, 2, 3, 6 or 10 days. 

There is also a travel option which includes access to London transport during your stay. The pass can be downloaded instantly or you can collect it when you arrive in London. Prices start from £69 for a one day pass. Check all London Passes and prices here  

Sightseeing For Solos  

1. tower of london.

At the eastern boundary of the old city walls, this is one of London’s most popular tourist attractions. With gory tales of imprisonment and death, the building has much more to its history and is currently where the Crown Jewels are held. Included in the admission are free guided tours by the Tower’s Beefeaters, which are great for an overview. There is lots to see here and plenty of history to get your teeth into. Cost = £27.50. Time = Full Day.

* Click here for prices and tickets for: Tower of London

2. Shakespeare’s Globe

See a Shakespeare play for just £5.00. You can’t get better than that! This reconstruction takes you back to Shakespeare’s time and as you watch the play standing you really feel like one of the ‘rabble’ from by-gone eras. Although it can be difficult to fully understand the old language, it’s easy to comprehend what is going on.

Cost = From £5 for a standing ticket. Time = 3-4 hours

3. Borough Market

Walk around this busy market and be seduced by the sights and smells. This is London’s oldest food market, being about 1000 years old. It is located beneath the railway arches between Borough High Street and Southwark Cathedral. The market is one of the few that is still trading under its original Victoria shed. The building and railway arches are must sees, and the atmosphere of the market must be experienced. It is highly recommended for day trips. 

Cost = Free (Unless you are tempted by some of the produce). Time = 1 hour

4. The Changing of the Guard 

Something that every visitor to London must see at least once! Taking place every day at specifc times (check on the Buckingham Palace website ) in front of Buckingham Palace. This military ceremony is when the Old Guard hand over the responsibility of protecting Buckingham Palace to the New Guard. The Guards that protect Buckingham Palace are called the Queen's Guard and are recognisable from their red tunics and bearskin hats.

Cost = Free. Time = 1 hour

5. Trafalgar Square

Arguably one of London’s greatest architectural pieces, this square also has plenty of history and quirks. An obvious tourist spot, it does attract large crowds (but less pigeons now that you are not allowed to feed them). The central focus point is Nelson’s Column, with the famous admiral on top. The pillar is surrounded by four bronze lions. There are also fountains – which is quite a rarity in London – and a plinth at each corner of the square, one of which is the “Empty Plinth.” This famous square is often the site for events and demonstrations.

* Click here for all tours and activities in London  

Escape the crowds

Surprisingly there are a few places where you can escape the crowds in London. Holland Park is a small, relaxed park in the Kensington district. With a calming Japanese garden here you can find some quiet time to yourself.

Lose yourself

Take a walk along the Thames and see where you end up. Switch banks and just generally head for anything that looks interesting. Just make sure you have a map handy so you can find the nearest tube station when you’ve had enough of walking and need to get back to your accommodation. You'll find your best London things to do by planning the journey casually. 

Get a great view

Greenwich Park. One of the best places to visit in London for the best view is Greenwich Park. The trip out to Greenwich is well worth it once you reach the top of the hill in this park. Here you get the best view of London and the Thames. It is the only place to get a full view of London’s skyline, as when you are in the iconic viewpoints such as the Shard, you cannot see the iconic building that you are in. From the hill in Greenwich park you can see it all.

The Shard . Although you can’t see it because you’re actually in it, another spot for a good view is The Shard. Inside you can see 360 degree views of London, and if you’re feeling adventurous you can go outside to experience the highest viewing platform in Western Europe. You could treat yourself to a drink from the bar too! Check here for prices and tickets for The Shard.  

London Eye. The London Eye is another great opportunity to see the city’s skyline. It is one of the tallest observation wheels in the world at 135 metres high. A ride in one of the capsules takes 40 minutes to rotate around the wheel with stunning views of Big Ben and other London sights. Check here for prices and tickets for the London Eye . 

Interact with the locals at – Borough Market. Get there early when the locals are doing their shopping, before all the tourists arrive. Look for small local cafes away from the main tourist sites to experience a more local London.

Places to enjoy the sun

• Any of the parks are a great place to enjoy the sun and there are plenty to choose from. Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, St James Park are all popular places to enjoy the sun. But there are also lesser known parks, such as Holland Garden and Chelsea Physic Garden.
• One of my favourite spots is actually the London Eye. Here on the banks of the Thames, is a lovely grassy verge where on sunny days you will find ice cream vendors. It’s a nice place to relax.
• There are plenty of markets around London. Camden Market is a firm favourite and is various markets all rolled into one. It is one of the best things to do in London. From fashion to crafts, art to food, you can find pretty much everything within the thousand plus stalls.
• Brick Lane Market has become a favourite on the hipster circuit. Here you can find a bargain with secondhand goods as street performers give the market a positive vibe. The best thing about this market is you never know what you might find.

Activities in London For Every Solo 

Active GatG

Take a guided kayak tour down the Thames for a different and active way to see the sights. Glide past legendary landmarks and paddle under famous bridges, all without the crowds.

Adventure GatG

For those with a sense of adventure, abseil down the UK’s tallest sculpture – the Orbit. The centre piece of the Olympic Park offers the country’s highest freefall abseil (not for the faint hearted). Before descending the 80m drop you enjoy a stunning bird's eye view. You completely control the descent, so go slow for plenty of pictures, or drop down for an adrenaline rush!

Arty & Museum GatG

Where to start? Tate Modern, the British Museum, Churchill War Rooms, the National Gallery, the Natural History Museum? Whether you prefer art, science or history you are literally spoilt for choice for museums in London. There are also some quirky museums that you may not have heard of, such as the Sherlock Holmes Museum, located at 221b Baker Street.

Budget GatG

Many London tourist attractions are completely free. Trafalgar Square, the Changing of the Guard, Tower Bridge, all can be seen for free. See them, don’t go in Tower Bridge, don’t go up the Shard (you get better views elsewhere anyway), if you’re on a budget, time and money, simply see the sights.

Cultural GatG

See a Shakespeare play at the Globe theatre. You are literally transported back in time in this reconstruction of the Globe. With standing areas where peasants would once watch the show, and seated areas. Go for standing to get a true cultural (and cheap) experience. The plays are actually easier to follow than you realise and you really get into it. Cost = from £5

Harry Potter GatG 

For Harry Potter fans you can take a guided walk across London to see the Platform 9 3/4 trolley and stroll through Diagon Alley. The tour takes you to sites such as Shakespeare’s Globe that inspired J.K. Rowling magical wizards. You can also take a Harry Potter studio tour London too. Click here for prices and dates: Harry Potter Tour London

History GatG

• The Tower of London is great for history geeks. The tower has been used as a jail, royal residence, a mint and more. Take a tour by one of the Beefeaters to get an overview then explore on your own. Here was where Anne Boleyn was beheaded and the two Princes imprisoned. With lots of gory tales and legends plus the Crown Jewels, no history fan should miss the Tower. Click here for prices and tickets
• The Churchill War Rooms are also great for more recent history. In this WW2 bunker you can learn about Churchill’s life and legacy. It was in this room that the secret government headquarters were based during WW2. Click here for prices and tickets

Nature GatG

Between the stations of St Pancras and King's Cross a wildlife haven can be found. Camley Street Natural Park is managed by London’s Wildlife Trust. The reserve was once a wasteland, but is now a great place to see wildlife in the city. With woodlands, grasslands and wetlands, there’s a variety of birds, plants, butterflies and even bats to be discovered.

Spooky GatG

For spooky GatGs, take a Jack the Ripper tour and explore the historic East End of London, visiting the paths trodden by the infamous Jack the Ripper in one of the biggest crimes in the late 19th century. Click here for tickets and prices

Touristy GatG

Take a free walking tour to see the main sites. Sandemans New Europe offer free guided walking tours of London (the guides work for tips so give what you can afford). Personally I love this tour company. The guides are always well informed and happy to help you after the tour too. They also offer several other tours that you pay for such as London day trips to Oxford or the Grim Reaper tour. The free tour starts at Covent Garden. They even provide customized private tours for you Click here for walking tours

If you prefer not to walk to see all the sights, the London hop-on hop-off bus is a good option. Hop off at Westminster, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and many more capital's top attractions. Choose from a 24, 48 or 72 hour pass. Click here for prices and tickets for London hop-on hop-off bus

What To Do in the Evenings

• See a West End show. From Les Miserables to Avenue Q, from Cats to Matilda there’s a show for every type of Girl about the Globe. An excellent choice for night activities in London.
• Walk around the city (in populated areas). Along the Thames you get some great views at night.

London has a variety of accommodation options from luxury and boutique hotels to hostels. Accommodation here isn't cheap so if you can't find something within your budget look at Airbnb, a platform where you can stay with locals. * Read: Where To Stay in London First Time

If you are travelling on a budget, staying in a London hostel is a great way of meeting others. Below is a list of our recommended hostels for solo female travellers as recommended by our solo community.

* To book, check prices or availability for all accommodation in London

Kings Cross – Clink261 Hostel

Tavistock Place – Generator Hostel

Situated in Tavistock Place, Generator Hostel is just a short walk from Covent Gardens. Part of a chain of hostels, they are known for their friendly atmosphere and funky interior, this hostel is no exception. Built in an old police station, it has a great vibe and a bar for cheap drinks. With private twins, and dormitories from 4 to 10 beds, prices start from £10 a night.

Elephant and Castle – Safestay Hostel

London is really easy to get around. You can take public transports like the Tube (underground/metro), buses, the DLR, river ferries or even cable cars to get from place to place. You no longer need an Oyster card as you can use your debit card to touch in and out of the Tube. If you are travelling to London first time, and the Tube stations confuse you, you should see the  Transport For London website (TFL). It is helpful for planning your journeys using all forms of transport around the city. You can get the easiest way to get around London.

If you prefer the freedom of the open road consider hiring a motorhome and driving yourself around the UK stopping in London on the way. As a solo traveller, you’ll have plenty of space for your accommodation as well as cooking gear and a fridge/freezer to prepare your meals. Spaceship Rentals offers a Voyager campervan from £50 per day. * Book a campervan with Spaceship Rentals

Where to Eat & Drink in London

Typical Food and Drink

You'll find all types of traditional food in London, whether battered fish ‘n' chips, roast dinners with Yorkshire puddings, pie and mash, or Cornish pasties. Treat yourself to a cream tea at one of the famous hotels such as the Ritz or just find a cafe for a more budget afternoon tea. Typical drinks are cider and ales so pop into a traditional English pub for a pint. There are plenty of Instagrammable restaurants in London too. We searched for some good places to eat in London and you'll find your favourite dishes there. 

Restaurants

£ – The Breakfast Club. There are a few of these about London and they’re great for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They serve typical breakfasts with a twist. Book a table or get there early as it gets busy! Find the locations around London here.  

£ – A taste of Spain in London. Famous for paella, there are also great tapas and sharing boards. It is a bit far out but it's worth the journey.  Find at Forest Drive East in Leytonstone.

 Restaurants for typical cuisine

£ – The Anchor Bankside . Serving “Pub grub” and the very English Fish and Chips, this is more of an English pub than a restaurant. Located right next to the Thames, the interior is traditionally British and the food is reasonably priced too. Find at 34 Park Street, London SE1 9EF.

££ – Swan, Shakespeare's Globe. Overlooking the Thames, this restaurant has swish decor and the food is nicely presented. For afternoon tea this is a great choice and generally the menu has a Shakespeare theme, making it unique to visit. Find at 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, SE1 9DT.

Vegetarian Restaurants

Young Vegans Pie and Mash Shop – If you like pie and mash this vegan restaurant is perfect. Serving vegan pie and mash such as curry pie, sweet potato pie, and even desserts. Located in Camden Market there are other eateries nearby too. Opt for a meal deal which includes a drink. Find at: 60 Camden Lock Place.

Coffee & Cake

Shakes & Co – If you love waffles, you'll be in waffle heaven here. In a futuristic interior you can choose all kinds of amazing desserts which are simply to die for. The service is both quick and fantastic. Try the red velvet waffle if you can. Find at  182 High Road, Willesden.

Street Food

Borough Market is a great place to get some street food. Although the food isn’t the cheapest of street food, you can find some interesting and very different choices.

Where to Drink

• For something a little different, go to Bounce . There are a couple in the city, and here you can play ping-pong as you drink, or just watch others play.
• The Founders Arms on the South bank of the Thames is a great place to sit and drink. With brilliant views over the river, it can get crowded on hot, sunny days.

About the Author

Nat is a part time backpacker who first got ‘bitten’ by the travel bug on a round the world gap year. Since coming home she has been trying to explore more of the world closer to home and hopes to make travel a full time lifestyle. Follow her adventures on https://natpacker.com or on her social media channels at Facebook , Instagram, or Twitter . 

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England Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

157 england tours for singles / solo travelers with 1,248 reviews.

Highlights of South-West England

• Coach / Bus

Heart of England

This tour was excellent. Derek was a very entertaining tour guide & our driver had a great sense of humour. I highly recommend travelling with Tour Rad.

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• In-depth Cultural

Best of Devon and Cornwall (6 Days)

Really enjoyed the tour and all the history of the areas we visited. Helen’s knowledge was wonderful, seeing it was first trip to these areas I would have liked a few more areas and buildings pointed out especially as we travelled in built up areas. As a visitor from Australia there is so much to learn about other than the sites we were visiting on tour.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

London Explorer (8 Days)

LONDON EXCURSION: definitely a 5 star tour! Everything worked seamlessly. Our guide, Tony Perry, was friendly and accommodating. Our hotel was on the corner of Hyde Park, the tube station, and great shopping. We were busy every day, and had plenty of time for our own individual excursions of shopping,restaurants, museums,religious worship,and fine theater. All of the sights were interesting and varied,and we had no need to drive. Unqualified recommendation!

• Christmas & New Year

2-Day Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath & Oxford Small-Group Tour from London

Thank you Rabbie's Tour and to our wonderful Scottish guide, who made my journey so lovely!

• Hiking & Trekking

Walk Hadrian's Wall Highlights

London & Country

Hoped that the extra excursions would be available at a better price through Globus than we could get on our own, or that transportation would be provided to most of them. I found better deals online and had to use the tube to get around...a lot! The 2 days we went outside of London with the group were ok.

Corners of Cornwall

Cornwall tour starting in London

Tour was a good length. Location visited were well chosen and we had excellent weather! Accommodation was very good.

5-Day Devon & Cornwall Small Group from London

I recently joined the travel tour led by the amazing guide Nick, and it exceeded all my expectations. Nick's knowledge, attitude, and organization were outstanding. He shared fascinating historical insights and made the trip both educational and captivating. His friendly and approachable nature created a welcoming atmosphere for all travelers. The fellow tour members were kind-hearted and punctual, making the journey enjoyable. The itinerary included both popular and lesser-known destinations, surprising us with hidden historical gems. I'm thrilled to have been part of this tour and highly recommend it for an unforgettable travel experience. Thank you for an incredible adventure

3-Day Isle of Wight and the Southern Coast Small-Group Tour from London

My recent 3-Day Isle of Wight and Southern Coast Small-Group Tour from London was a peaceful and enjoyable experience. The people in our group were friendly and made the trip even better. Our guide, Mark, was fantastic. He knew a lot about the area, cracked jokes, and helped us a lot. His stories and knowledge made the trip interesting and fun. Plus, the breathtaking sights of the lush green landscapes and the mesmerizing sea views were truly amazing. If you want a relaxing getaway with great company, a fantastic guide, and stunning natural beauty, I highly recommend this tour.

Kent: The Garden of England

3-Day Stonehenge, Glastonbury, Bath & the South West Coast Small-Group Tour from London

This tour was fantastic because of our tour guide, John. He was enthusiastic, knowledgeable and adaptable. We can't wait to book our next tour with Rabbie's!

Walk the Lake District

Thanks for a great holiday. Will use Explore again and again

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Stonehenge, Devon & Cornwall (Hotel) - 5 days

What people love about england solo tours.

This tour was excellent. Derek was a very entertaining tour guide & our driver had a great sense of humour. I highly recommend travelling with Tour Rad.

It was a great adventure and experience, especially due to our excellent director Helen, an extremely cultured and warmhearted woman with a lot of historical and literary knowledge, not to forget her humour. Very intense six days with a full but balanced programme, including nature, culture and good food and fellowship. Thank you!

Overall, it was a fantastic experience. There were a couple of small hiccups, nothing is perfect, but our guide and our driver did a fantastic job of making the experience fun and meaningful. The only thing I would flag is that the group size is a bit large - we were 46 - which can sometimes make for slower travel. Otherwise, absolutely wonderful!

More Tours in England for Singles and Solo Travellers

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• UK Lake District tours (10)
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• England Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

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SOLO TRAVEL , DESTINATIONS , ENGLAND , EUROPE , SOLO LOCATION GUIDES

35 epic things to do alone in london: solo travel guide by a local.

Are you wondering what to do in London alone? Then you’ve come to the right place.

I am not only a Londoner, born and bred, but I have also been a passionate solo traveller for many years . As I know my hometown like the back of my hand and have first-hand experience of the challenges faced by solo travellers, I can steer you towards the very best things to do alone in London.

Whether you are a culture vulture, a fervent foodie or a seasoned shutterbug, there is something for every traveller. Many of London’s famous attractions make the cut but I have also thrown in less obvious solo activities.

At the end of the article, you’ll also find London solo travel tips, including advice on choosing accommodation and safety tips for female solo travellers.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

Dreaming of your first solo trip? Click here to download your FREE solo travel toolkit . 

It’s just what you need to kickstart your plans!

IN THIS ARTICLE

My Top 10 Things to Do Alone in London

In a hurry? Let’s cut to the chase.

In no particular order of preference, here are my favourite things to do in London solo.

1. Enrich your mind at one of London’s major museums

Visiting a museum is an ideal thing to do in London by yourself. Better still, entry to the permanent exhibitions in most of London’s museums is free.

Lovers of fashion and design will adore the  Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) , and history buffs will flock to the British Museum . If you are itching to learn more about our natural world, check out the Natural History Museum .

Perhaps I’m biased because I work there as a volunteer, but I love South Kensington’s  Science Museum .

Even if you are not a museum person, the buildings that these collections are housed in are works of art and  London landmarks  in their own right.

2. Visit one of London’s free art galleries

Is art more of your thing? If so, you’ll be spoilt for choice in London. Again, permanent exhibitions are usually free.

For artistic immersion, head to  The National Gallery  on Trafalgar Square.

Or pop into one of London’s Tate Museums .

Visit Tate Britain for a walk through British art history. Or if you love modern art, there’s  Tate Modern  housed in the husk of a disused power station on London’s South Bank.

More intimate galleries that I love are the Wallace Collection, the Queen’s Gallery and the Dulwich Picture Gallery .

3. Be dazzled by the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London

The Tower of London is a very popular attraction for very good reasons.

Over its colourful 1,000-year history it has been a fortress and a palace. It was used to store records of government and was the site of a royal menagerie, the Royal Mint and armouries.

READ THIS NEXT: 15 Insider Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

Today’s visitors arrive in their droves to gaze at the Crown Jewels, the gold and gem-encrusted ceremonial items worn by British kings and queens, and to revel in its sometimes gory history. It was from here that Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes were incarcerated and were led to their grisly fate.

Their stories and more are brought to life during the free 45-minute walking tour led by the famous Yeoman Warders, also known as ‘Beefeaters.’ Delivered with style and humour, this is one of the highlights of the Tower of London that can’t be missed.

>>> BUY YOUR TICKET FOR THE TOWER OF LONDON HERE . ENTRY TO THE TOWER OF LONDON IS INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS AND LONDON EXPLORER PASS .

4. Embrace your inner classic music aficionado at St Martin in the Fields

If classical music is more to your taste,  St Martin in the Fields   holds regular free 30-minute concerts. I love the church’s inexpensive  café  in its crypt and its terrace cafe, both of which are inexpensive lunch options if you are in the Trafalgar Square area.

Another good option for free lunchtime concerts is the historic church of St. James in Picadilly .

5. See London’s highlights on a self-guided tour

Forget about those hop-on-hop-off tourist buses clogging London’s streets. The very best way to see the capital is on foot.

One of my favourite things to do in London is to seek out its familiar, and less familiar, sights by doing a walking tour. And the beauty of doing a self-guided tour is that you can go at your own pace (and skip the less interesting bits).

Insider Tip! Best London Walking Tour Books

• Time Out London Walks: 30 Walks by Writers, Comedians and Historians
• Walking London: Thirty Original Walks in and Around London (Andrew Duncan)
• London’s Hidden Walks (Andrew Duncan)

6. Or join a guided walking tour

If you don’t fancy going it alone, there is a good choice of  guided London walking tours  available to accommodate all interests. This can also be a good way to  meet people as a solo traveller .

From a food walking tour of Borough Market to immersion in Harry Potter’s Muggle land , there’s something for everyone.

Friends have highly recommended the street art tours in East London. However, armed with a little information, you can do this by yourself.

READ THIS NEXT: Street Art in Brick Lane, London: A Self-guided Walking Tour

7. Visit the Sky Garden

For the best free view in town, head to 20 Fenchurch Street, also known as the Walkie Talkie building, home to London’s Garden in the Clouds.

The  Sky Garden  offers a 360-degree panorama of London’s iconic skyline. On a clear day, the views are sensational, from the Tower of London and Canary Wharf to the east, and St. Paul’s Cathedral and the London Eye to the west.

Advance booking  is essential.

READ THIS NEXT: Visiting The Sky Garden, London

8. Or take in the view from The Shard

If your budget can stretch that far, buy a ticket for The View from The Shard.

Soaring to a height of over 310 meters above the River Thames, The Shard is the tallest building in the United Kingdom and the highest viewing platform in London. The panorama from its viewing platforms is hard to beat.

For the best prices, buy your ticket from The Shard’s ticket office .

>>> ENTRY IS INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS AND LONDON EXPLORER PASS (RESERVATION REQUIRED)

But did you know that you can visit The Shard for free ?

Aqua Shard, one of the building’s six restaurants, offers some of the best views in the building. Although you won’t reach the dizzy heights of level 68 and beyond, its double-height glass walls on floor 31 envelop you in London’s skyline.

Advance reservations are advised.

READ THIS NEXT : How to Visit The Shard for Free: A Local’s Guide

9. Take a riverboat along the Thames

Take a riverboat along the Thames for a leisurely day out and a chance to see many of London’s most famous bridges from a different perspective.

A one-day  River Roamer ticket  gives you unlimited travel on the  Thames Clippers’ service .

This will allow you to hop on and hop off between 23 piers along the river and explore some of the city’s attractions. These include Battersea Power Station to the west, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, Tate Modern, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and historic Greenwich to the east.

Alternatively, why not take a traditional Thames River cruise with live commentary? Book your Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise here or your Westminster to Tower Bridge trip here .

10. Lose yourself in Kew Gardens

Strolling around the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew is one of my favourite solo travel London activities.

Home to the world’s largest and most diverse collection of plants – over 50,000 plant species at the last count – Kew Gardens is one of the capital’s treasures.

The Temperate House  and the  Palm House  offer a warm winter refuge for plants and visitors alike and are jewels of Victorian engineering.

Embrace your inner child by walking across the  Treetop Walkway , suspended 18 metres above ground and offering a bird’s eye view of the forest. Or check out Kew Gardens’ art installation,  The Hive , an immersive sight and sound experience.

Although there’s something to see in Kew Gardens all year round, I prefer the explosion of colour in springtime and the spectacular foliage of the arboretum in autumn.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK A TICKET FOR THE KEW GARDENS. ENTRY IS INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS AND LONDON EXPLORER PASS (RESERVATION REQUIRED)

Best Things to Do in London Alone During the Day

11. explore london’s smaller museums.

By ticking off the major museums on our travel bucket lists, there’s the risk that the smaller museums are omitted. If you are in a city for a limited time, this is inevitable as priority is given to the big hitters.

London is home to some wonderful, smaller museums which are perfect for mooching around alone if time permits.

Local’s Tip! My Pick of London’s Best Small Museums

London Cinema Museum – for a journey into cinema’s past

Horniman Museum – a quirky natural history museum in a beautiful setting, famous for its giant stuffed walrus

Museum of Brands – for a surprisingly fascinating insight into marketing and brands.

12. Join a tour or talk at The British Museum

The  British Museum  is one of my favourite hangouts and it has a stimulating programme of events year-round. These range from excellent  free gallery tours , that are led by volunteers, to more in-depth explorations of cultural and historic subjects.

You can just turn up on the day for most of the free gallery tours. However, book online for the paid-for talks as these are very popular.

But if you miss out on the talks, don’t miss out on the museum. It truly has a world-beating collection, from imposing African statues to the glorious Lindisfarne Gospel from Northumbria’s  Holy Island.

13. Dive into WW2 history at the Churchill War Rooms

Step back into the dark days of the Second World War by visiting the fascinating Churchill War Rooms .

This painstakingly preserved subterranean warren was home to Churchill and other top-ranking British officials during World War II. From here, the British government directed the Second World War.

The sense of history is almost tangible.

14. Plan your next solo trip in an old-fashioned bookshop

A bookshop is a perfect refuge for the solo traveller. Sadly, in these days of Amazon – other online retailers are available –  bookshops are becoming rarer, and those with character rarer still.

Luckily for us locals, London has managed to cling onto many of its bookshops.

King amongst these is  Daunt Books  in Marylebone. Solo travellers will be bowled over by its extensive collection of travel publications, perfect for an hour’s browsing.

15. Bag a good spot for the Changing of the Guard

There are few things that Britain does better than pomp and ceremony, and the Changing of the Guard is an excellent place to experience this.

The Changing the Guard is when the King’s Guard transfers responsibility to the New Guard and spans three locations: Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace and Wellington Barracks.

This 45-minute ceremony takes place on select days (typically Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays) and starts at 11 a.m. Times and days do change and you should check the schedule here .

This spectacle is completely free to watch. That said, to understand what is going on and to bag the best spots, it’s worth looking at this inexpensive walking tour with a local guide.

16. Take a stroll along the Victoria Embankment

There are so many London walks from which to choose but this one takes in many of London’s top sights.

The 2km Victoria Embankment river walk from the Palace of Westminster to Blackfriars Bridge is a perfect way to spend an afternoon by yourself.

If the weather is kind to you, take a break in the  Victoria Embankment Gardens  near Charing Cross Station. A café is open in the warmer months, and there are summer concerts on the garden’s bandstand.

Alternatively, if you are seeking open spaces, walk the Pymmes Brook Trail in North London.

17. Smell the flowers in Columbia Road Market

Visiting at least one market is a good use of time during your solo trip to London. There are so many to choose from:  Portobello Market, Brick Lane Market ,  Old Spitalfields  and  Borough Market  to name but a few.

But my favourite has to be the  Columbia Road Flower Market , which is one of the best things to do in London by yourself on a Sunday.

On one day of the week, this East End road is transformed into a blooming wonderland, the air perfumed with the scent of flowers. Arrive early to get your pick of the blooms (the market opens at 8 am).

Or if you are after a bargain, arrive around 2 pm when the stallholders start to reduce their prices. The market closes at 3 pm.

This area between Shoreditch and Brick Lane is also packed with vintage shops, and fantastic cafes and delis. Perfect for Sunday brunch.

18. Borrow a four-legged friend for the day

If you are missing companionship, why not borrow a dog for the day? The innovative  Borrow My Doggy  pairs dog owners with dog sitters.

What could be better than having a canine companion to explore London with? And you get to help out dog owners.

19. Explore Maritime Greenwich

There are few better solo days out in London than taking the riverboat to Greenwich and exploring its collection of UNESCO-listed buildings. It helps that it has welcoming riverside pubs and restaurants.

Although it is most famous as the place of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the Prime Meridian of the world, its buildings and historic landmarks showcase English artistic and scientific endeavours in the 17th and 18th centuries.

• The  Queen’s House  – first Palladian building in England.
• The  Royal Naval Hospital  – originally designed by Christopher Wren and further embellished by other architects, including Nicholas Hawksmoor.
• The  Royal Park  – expansive views over London and home to the  Royal Observatory, Maritime Museum  and Meridian Line.
• The  Royal Observatory  – the baseline for the world’s time zone system and for the measurement of longitude around the globe

20. Take a day trip from London

Thanks to extensive rail connections, it’s super easy to  take a day trip from London .

With its broad shingle beach and cool bohemian air,  Brighton  is a very popular day trip from London. The university cities of  Oxford  and  Cambridge  are also great choices for a day out.

Even Liverpool , home of The Fab Four, is reachable as a day trip from London.

For something a little different, but no less historic, try  Rochester  in Kent , which was once the home of Charles Dickens. Visit one of the  seaside towns in Kent  or walk along the dunes of  Camber Sands  and explore the neighbouring town of  Rye , West Sussex .

Finally, if you’re in the mood for a walk through ancient woodlands, I highly recommend heading to  Epping Forest   in the northeast corner of London, which is spectacular in autumn.

READ THIS NEXT: 31 Easy Day Trips from London by Train

But perhaps you want someone else to take care of all of the arrangements for you or want to benefit from the knowledge of a guide? There are some day trips from London where it makes sense to join an organised tour with a guide.

Here is my pick of the best

Stonehenge Half-Day Tour

Stonehenge is one of the most popular day trips from London but is not the easiest place to reach by public transport, requiring a train and bus/taxi journey. This half-day tour includes a return transfer and an audio guide.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Windsor, Stonehenge and Oxford Tour

Three top destinations are bundled into one neat package here. You can choose to visit the interior of Windsor Castle and will benefit from a live guide.

Full-Day Cotswolds Tour 

Like Stonehenge, exploring the Cotswolds’ chocolate box villages can be tricky if you don’t have a car. This excursion visits four of its loveliest villages – Burford, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold – and is led by a live guide.

21. Learn a new skill

Learning a new skill as a solo traveller works well on so many levels. Apart from the potential enrichment resulting from the activity, it is a fun way to spend time in a strange city and a fantastic way to meet new people.

Check out  obby  to find classes that are available around London. There really is something for everyone, from calligraphy and cocktails (assume that the writing comes first!) to eco pouch making with sustainable designers.

22. Take a class at the School of Life.

London’s School of Life  has an extensive programme of classes and workshops, focussing on helping attendees find fulfilment in key areas of their lives.

Speakers discuss a range of subjects from how to find love, to developing your emotional intelligence.

23. Start your weekend with a Park Run

If you are in London by yourself on a Saturday and have your running gear with you, why not take part in a  Park Run ?

These organised 5K runs are great fun as well as good places to meet new people as a solo traveller. Sign up for free on their website.

24. Unleash your inner Ginger Rogers at a dance class

If running isn’t for you, consider dropping into the famous  Pineapple Studios  in Covent Garden for a dance class.

From tap to hip hop, there are classes for all levels, throughout the day and well into the evening. Prices are from £10 for an hour’s session; advance booking is required.

25. Rent a bike to enjoy London’s parks

For something a little more leisurely, rent a bike to explore one or more of London’s wonderful parks. The  Hyde Park loop  is particularly good.

You can rent one of the distinctive  Santander Cycles . Download the Santander Cycles app or go to any docking station with your bank card and touch the screen to get started.

For a fun way to explore London and to meet other solo travellers, join a guided bike tour of London that takes in the city’s highlights such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, as well as some hidden spots.

26. Treat yourself to afternoon tea

There are few more quintessentially English culinary experiences than afternoon tea.

High tea, as it is also called, is usually served between 2 pm and 4 pm and typically includes crustless finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, sweets and pastries. These are arranged on a tiered platter and are served with your choice of tea (or coffee).

Put aside a few hours for this experience. To make it truly special, why not add a glass of champagne?

Afternoon tea is served in a large number of venues across London (start by checking here ). But you can also combine eating and sightseeing on an afternoon tea bus or having high tea sailing along the Thames .

27. Pack a picnic for one of London’s parks

London is home to more than 3,000 parks, covering almost 18 per cent of the capital. The best known of these are its eight Royal Parks, which include Hyde Park, St. James’s Park and Regent’s Park.

These are the perfect spots for a DIY lunch or supper. Do as the locals do. Grab yourself a “meal deal” from a mini-supermarket (typically a sandwich, drink and fruit/bag of crisps for under a fiver) and pick the perfect spot in the park of your choice.

No dining companions are required.

28. Read a book over a flat white

Let’s be honest. Rain is not an impossibility in London.

Cosying up in a  café  is a good wet weather standby if you are alone in London. Order your coffee – and something decadent to go with it – open up your book or laptop or just people watch.

Solo Travel in London: What to Do at Night

29. lose yourself in a good movie.

Solo cinema-going should be the norm, not the exception.

Let’s face it; why do you need to go with someone else to watch a movie? Whilst a shared post-movie critique can be fun, it’s not as if you’re going to chat with one another during the film. Or I sincerely hope not.

I’m a total cinephile and go to the cinema on a weekly basis at the very least, often on my own. To my mind, hunkering down in a cosy cinema on a winter afternoon takes a lot of beating.

In central London, my go-to place for a dose of movie magic is  Picturehouse Central . Big screens, comfortable seats, good café and thoughtful programming.  Plus its Members’ Bar is one of the best spots in London to grab a drink!

For a boutique cinema experience, try the theatres in the  Everyman Cinema  chain.

As their screens tend to be smaller, this is not the best option for those big blockbuster movies. However, what the Everyman lacks in screen size, it gains in comfy sofas and armchairs, some with footstools, and waiter service to your seat.

For a journey into cinematic past, pick Prince Charles Cinema (off Leicester Square). This retro-styled cinema has a wonderfully eclectic programme at bargain prices for its central location, especially if you take up their cheap membership.

>>> Get inspiration to book your first solo visit to London with these dreamy quotes about singles travel or through these books by female solo travellers

30. Browse the BFI’s Archives in the Mediatheque

Another favourite place to watch a movie is the  British Film Institute (BFI)  on the South Bank, which is also home to the uber-cool Mediatheque.

The Mediatheque comprises booths with comfortable seats where you can settle down with a film or TV programme from the BFI’s extensive and diverse archive collection.

And best of all, it’s absolutely free and open until 9 p.m.

31. Attend evensong at St Paul’s Cathedral

Welcome to another of my favourite places in London, the majestic St. Paul’s Cathedral.

If you are not pushed about scaling the cathedral’s dome, why not attend one of the choral evensong services? You can check the schedule here .

Not only is this completely free, but you also have the opportunity to hear the choir in this acoustically sublime setting.

>>> BUY YOUR TICKET FOR ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL HERE . ENTRY IS INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS AND LONDON EXPLORER PASS .

32. Catch a play or musical

Another great thing to do in London by yourself is to go to the theatre.

London has so much going on theatrically, suiting all tastes and budgets. And as a single, it is easier to score a single ticket.

33 Experience Elizabethan London at The Globe Theatre

See Elizabethan theatre brought vividly to life in one of London’s most famous buildings,  Shakespeare’s Globe , built a few hundred meters from the original Globe, where many of Shakespeare’s plays were first performed.

I’ve seen a few productions here and it is an unforgettable experience. In an attempt to reproduce the bawdy atmosphere of 16th-century theatre-going, “groundlings” stand in the central space in front of the stage. Applauding and jeering are actively encouraged.

As much of Shakespeare’s Globe is open to the elements, the theatre operates a summer programme only. Groundling tickets sell for as little as £5.

34. Dine at a supper club

The prospect of  eating out alone  is enough to bring even the most experienced solo traveller out in a cold sweat.

If you are visiting London alone and don’t fancy a table for one, why not try one of the city’s  supper clubs ?

These imitate spaces are where aspiring chefs test their offerings before committing to the rent of a permanent home. As such, you can eat very well for a fraction of the usual price.

Plump for one that offers long sharing tables, which are good places to strike up conversations with new people.

READ THIS NEXT: Solo Dining with Style: 21 Tips To Make Eating Out Alone Fun

35. Sip a G&T in a  London pub

I’ve saved one of the best things to do alone in London until last.

Few things are as quintessentially British as a pub, and just because you are travelling alone doesn’t mean that you have to miss out on this experience.

One of my favourite central London pubs is the  Fitzroy Tavern  on Charlotte Street in Fitzrovia. This Victorian boozer oozes history and has been the haunt of many a London luminary over the years, including Dylan Thomas.

Head upstairs to bag one of the pub’s comfy armchairs. Write your journal, read a good book and order a glass or two of your favourite nectar. And you never know, you may soon make new friends.

Where to Stay as a Solo Traveller in London

Choosing the right place to stay as a solo traveller is an essential part of your travel planning.

London is a pricey city in which to stay, especially if you are travelling alone. You’ll pay a premium for staying within the central (transport) Zone 1; prices usually start to drop the further you venture.

Base yourself in one of these zone 1 neighbourhoods: buzzy Soho or Covent Garden , trendy Hoxton , elegant Mayfair , or Islington with its abundance of excellent bars and restaurants. All of these areas have good transport links.

Here are a few options to consider:

Wilde Aparthotels by Staycity Covent Garden

Centrally located on The Strand, one of London’s most historic streets , this aparthotel offers a range of rooms, including those with a kitchenette. I have used Staycity in France and was very impressed.

>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES & BOOK

Citadines, Islington

These modern studio apartments in the heart of Islington have all you need for a successful solo trip to London, including a fully equipped kitchenette.

Covent Garden Hotel

This wonderfully located hotel in the charming Seven Dials area of London is one of the boutique Firmdale Group properties in London. It’s not cheap but it is one of the best places to treat yourself (it also has a great bar and restaurant).

9 Hertford Street

This one-bedroom apartment is a more affordable luxury choice, a stone’s throw from Green Park. Extremely elegant but also functional.

>>> None of these places takes your fancy? Check out other great accommodation choices in London here .

London Solo Travel Tips

Getting around london.

London is a surprisingly walkable city. The key is to pick a neighbourhood and stick with it.

That said, it’s very unlikely that you’ll avoid the need to use public transport in the capital .

The London Underground, or “Tube,” network is extensive and covers most areas, at least north of the river. But it’s hard to beat bagging the front seat at the top of one of the city’s red double-decker buses, which serve some of the areas the Tube doesn’t reach.

Contactless payment or pre-paid Oystercards make it easy to use the capital’s buses and trains

The London River Bus is a tourist activity in itself, providing a more leisurely way of getting from A to B. Additionally, iconic London black cabs, Uber and Bolt are readily available.

Cycling is increasingly popular, thanks to London’s growing network of bike lanes.

Solo Travel London: Safety Advice

London is one of the safest and best destinations for solo travellers in Europe , even for those who are taking their first solo trip . For English speakers, the locals talk your language. This is one of the most diverse cities on the planet and one that is tolerant of all types of people. Save the occasional wobble, London’s transport system is extensive and user-friendly. This is a very busy city at all times of the year, and this activity helps to keep things safe. As in many cities, petty crime is not unusual. I have friends who have had their bags swiped on the Tube and valuables lifted by nimble-fingered pickpockets in pubs.

Remain vigilant. Keep your belongings close to you, stash your valuables at your accommodation and use an anti-theft backpack when you are out and about. I have  this PacSafe backpack  which has anti-RFID technology and a hidden pocket.

Take steps to keep safe as a female solo traveller . A little bit of common sense goes a long way. If a street or an area doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and don’t go wandering alone. Avoid walking through London’s parks after sunset.

READ THIS NEXT : 17 Essential Safety Tips for Travelling Alone

How to meet people in London

My Italian friends love London but cannot understand why people don’t make eye contact on the Tube, let alone talk to one another. And here’s the thing; striking up random conversations with strangers on public transport or on London’s streets is a no-no.

It’s not that the natives are inherently unfriendly or rude; it’s just not the cultural norm. But the good news is that there are a number of better ways to meet people as a solo traveller in London.

Although my days of sleeping in a dorm are behind me , I’ll be the first to admit that hostels are great places to meet other travellers.

As I’ve mentioned, joining a day tour or activity, learning a new skill or taking part in a Park Run are all ways to meet people.

Perhaps you are an avid photographer or a keen walker? Then why not indulge your passion and meet other people using Meetup . This online tool lists events that cater to a vast range of interests.

You can also make use of apps like Tourlina or Backpackr to find travel companions and locals.

The great British pub is always a good bet, especially if you prop up the bar.

READ THIS NEXT : 21 Easy Ways to Meet People While Travelling Alone

Saving money as a solo traveller in London

London has a not undeserved reputation as an expensive city. However, there are ways that you can save money when visiting London alone.

There are tons of free activities , from London’s first-class museums and galleries to its acres of parkland.

Eating out doesn’t need to cost a packet. Buy food supplies from small supermarkets dotted across London (e.g. Tesco Express) and stick to cheap and mid-range eateries.

London has two excellent sightseeing passes .

Use the London Pass for unlimited sightseeing across 90+ attractions over a set number of days. Alternatively, a London Explorer Pass allows you to decide how many attractions you would like to visit in a 60-day period.

Buy your London Pass here , and your London Explorer Pass here . To find out more, check out my London Pass review or this lowdown on the London Explorer Pass .

Thank you for reading my solo travel London guide

I hope that these ideas and tips help you have the best London solo trip. If you are looking for more information about what to do in London, take a look at some of my other articles below.

ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE? THEN READ THESE NEXT!

• 30 Famous London Landmarks
• 30 Famous Streets in London You Must Visit
• 23 Famous Bridges in London
• 32 Easy Day Trips from London by Train
• Virtual London Tours: The 10 Best Armchair Travel Experiences
• 10 Tasty Foods in London That You Must Try

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman is a Londoner who has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

UK Solo Female Travel Safety Tips and Advice

This post may contain affiliate links. For full information, please see our  disclaimer here and our Privacy Policy here .

Welcome to the Solo Female Travel Safety Tips and Advice page for United Kingdom !

This page is brought to you by Solo Female Travelers Tours , our curated small group trips for women, by women.

On this page you will find first-hand, unbiased, and real  safety tips, advice and reviews  from women traveling solo, submitted directly from their personal experiences in the country.

Their opinions are unfiltered and submitted independently as part of the Solo Female Travel Safety Index , a ranking of 210 countries and regions based on how safe they are for women traveling solo.

The safety scores range from 1 to 4 with 1 being the safest and 4 being the most dangerous for solo female travelers.

You don’t need to login to read the below reviews. But do sign up or login to share your solo travel experiences, country safety rating and comments.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE – LEAVE YOUR SAFETY REVIEWS! We can make the world a safer place for women traveling solo together. Sign up to our portal and leave your reviews NOW. Share your experience with other solo female travelers and help us empower more women through travel.

United Kingdom Country data

We have compiled a few data points below that can help you better understand United Kingdom and have more context when thinking about travel safety.

Official country name: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Etymology: Self-descriptive country name. The designation "Great Britain," in the sense of "Larger Britain," dates back to medieval times and was used to distinguish the island from "Little Britain," or Brittany in modern France. The name Ireland derives from the Gaelic "Eriu," the matron goddess of Ireland (goddess of the land).

Country map

Locator map

Capital: London.

Independence / foundation: The UK has no official date of independence. These are relevant dates throughout history: In 927, the minor English kingdoms unite. On the 3rd of March 1284, the enactment of the Statute of Rhuddlan united England and Wales. In 1536, the Act of Union formally incorporated England and Wales. On the 1st of May 1707, the Acts of Union formally united England, Scotland, and Wales as Great Britain. On the 1st of January 1801, the Acts of Union formally united Great Britain and Ireland as the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. On the 6th of December 1921, the Anglo-Irish Treaty formalized partition of Ireland, six counties remained part of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland. On the 12th of April 1927, the Royal and Parliamentary Titles Act established the current name of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Population: 68 million.

Currency: British Pound (GBP) 1 USD = 0.79 GBP 1 EUR = 0.86 GBP

Time zone: UTC 0

Languages spoken: English. Note - the following are recognized regional languages: Scots (about 30% of the population of Scotland), Scottish Gaelic (about 60,000 speakers in Scotland), Welsh (about 20% of the population of Wales), Irish (about 10% of the population of Northern Ireland), Cornish (some 2,000 to 3,000 people in Cornwall).

Religions: Christian (includes Anglican, Roman Catholic, Presbyterian, Methodist) 60%, Muslim 4%, Hindu 1%, other 2%, unspecified 7%, none 26%.

Climate: Temperate climate moderated by prevailing southwest winds over the North Atlantic Current. More than half of the days are overcast.

Real GDP (ppp – purchasing power parity): $3.18 trillion.

Real GDP per capita (ppp): $47,600.

Main airports: London Heathrow Airport, Manchester Airport, London Gatwick Airport.

World heritage sites in United Kingdom

There are over 1,100 world heritage sites spread across more than 165 countries. New ones are added every year, and some may be removed from the list for various reasons.

Number of UNESCO listed sites : 34.

Top world heritage sites :

Interesting facts about United Kingdom

Further reading : N/A.

United Kingdom Travel tips

Socket type: G / D / M. Guide to socket types .

Weekend days: Saturday and Sunday.

Driving: Cars drive on the Left.

Local taxi apps: Uber , Gett , Bolt .

Travel Guides: Lonely Planet .

Languages spoken : English. Note - the following are recognized regional languages: Scots (about 30% of the population of Scotland), Scottish Gaelic (about 60,000 speakers in Scotland), Welsh (about 20% of the population of Wales), Irish (about 10% of the population of Northern Ireland), Cornish (some 2,000 to 3,000 people in Cornwall).

Basic words and phrases in the main language:

Find a hotel in United Kingdom

Book tours and activities :

More about United Kingdom on Solo Female Travelers

Did you spot any errors? We do our best to keep this information updated and accurate, but things change. If you saw anything that is not right, let us know so we can fix it: [email protected] .

About the Solo Female Travel Safety Index

Safety matters to solo female travelers, you told us so in our annual  Solo Female Travel Survey , where year after year, women prove that this is their most important concern when traveling solo.

We wanted to do something about it, so we built these country-specific pages where you can find reviews and scores for 7 key variables affecting the safety of women traveling solo.

• Risk of scam
• Risk of theft
• Risk of harassment
• Attitudes towards women
• UK Travel Advisory
• US Travel advisory
• Global Peace Index (GPI)

Informing OSAC

The Solo Female Travel Safety Score is used by the Overseas Security Advisory Council for including safety concerns for women travelers in their country security reports; OSAC is a partnership between the U.S. Department of State and private-sector security community.

How to use the Safety Index

On this page, you will find the country score and the personal opinions on safety of other women traveling solo.

You can sort the comments by:

• The  level of experience traveling solo  of the reviewer (beginner = <5 trips solo, Intermediate = 5 to 10 trips solo, Experienced = >10 trips solo).
• The  age  of the traveler.
• Whether they are a  visitor or local .
• The  date  they were posted.

The safety scores range from 1 to 4 with 1 being the safest and 4 being the most dangerous for solo female travelers. 

Thus, the lower the score, the safer the country.

Looking for more safety resources?

This entire website is devoted to helping women travel solo. Check out the links below to learn more:

Solo Female Travel Stats : Results from the the largest, most comprehensive and only global research study on solo female travel trends, preferences and behaviors published.

Thanks to Jacobo Vilella for creating the Solo Female Travelers Safety Index ❤️

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Solo female travel guide

What are the best places to travel as a solo female?

How to stay safe as a solo female traveller

• Protect your belongings – keep jewellery, cameras, phones and laptops safe and hidden from view.
• Keep your bag safe – make sure it is securely fastened not slung loosely over your shoulder.
• Never carry your travel documents unless needed – keep your passport and flight tickets with your valuables in the hotel safety box.
• Be clear you are travelling in a group.
• Don’t share your accommodation details – keep the details of where you are staying private.
• Stay in control – watch how much alcohol you drink and never leave your drink unattended.
• Walk away – if at any point you feel uncomfortable, walk away.
• Consider your dress code – with a bit of research you can ensure you respect the local culture.

Cultural differences to be aware of

Who will i be travelling with.

What can I do in any downtime?

What should I pack for my solo trip?

Ready for your solo adventure?

Related solo blogs

Best solo trips for women

First solo trip with Explore? Top 7 questions answered

Where to go? Our recommendations by month

7 questions answered for your first small-group adventure holiday

Your Ultimate Guide To Solo Female Travel: How To Do It Safely And Smartly

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Have you ever been told that traveling alone as a female is “not a good idea?” The concept of women traveling the world solo can evoke a stunning array of negative reactions from people.

For some people, they would just look at you, blink slowly, and say, “Why?” Where’s the fun in traveling alone? (Not everything in life has to be fun , Karen). Besides, solo travel is fun.

Many other people are simply uncomfortable with the idea of being alone in a foreign place. They get Naked and Afraid vibes, intimidated by the autonomy, solitude, or the potential of dealing with a negative situation on their own. What if something bad happens? What if I don’t know what to do in an international or tricky situation?

If you are a woman feeling held back from solo travel out of the fear of feeling lonely, overwhelmed by logistics, unprepared for a foreign and unknown environment, or being physically unsafe–these feelings are all justified and valid. But, solo travel is not as intimidating as it appears. Traveling alone is an adventure in itself, and if you approach it safely and smartly, the world will open itself up to you.

Image credit: Maura Bielinski

Solo Female Travel Is Gaining Popularity

Solo travel is on the rise in recent years , and its trendiness has grown for several reasons.

First, the stigma around the safety and practicality of solo travel has gradually broken down, especially for females. As awareness grows that traveling alone is a feasible and safe option, there have been jumps in numbers across the board, and the travel industry is transitioning to accommodate this influx of solo travelers. The massive increase in remote workers also promotes the possibility of solo travel and the digital nomad lifestyle . 

Ever since 2020, when social distancing discouraged group-oriented experiences, all things solo soared in popularity. As travel slowly opened back up and still continues to, Google trend data reports that interest in solo travel has risen a stunning 761%. Prior to 2021, 14% of travelers were considering a solo trip; it has doubled since then to 23% this year. 

For women travelers specifically, solo female travel has expanded across the map. 72% of American women are now choosing to try solo travel over group travel, and Google data reports massive increases in searches for “solo female travel”. Some people may be surprised to hear that women are more likely to travel solo than men.

There will inevitably be learning curves along the way, but traveling alone becomes very natural: something to look forward to rather than be intimidated by. You can road trip, camp, hike, backpack, travel internationally, and feel very comfortable doing it on your own.

If you’ve never traveled alone before, you do not want to miss out on a travel experience you will surely fall in love with!

7 Reasons Why You Will Love Solo Travel

Traveling alone gets you out of your comfort zone.

If there were to be only one incentive or benefit to solo travel, this would top the list. Travel educates, pushes and challenges you in the most unexpected ways. There is nothing else like experiencing a foreign culture on your own. Solo travel inevitably triggers a process of confronting and overcoming your barriers, fears, and insecurities. Buckle up for a wild ride as you learn to be comfortable being uncomfortable. Travel changes and widens your perspective and understanding of yourself, the world, and your place in it. You will be different afterwards–as it should be.

Solo travel builds your confidence and self-understanding

Traveling alone is a self-administered test of your capabilities, aptitude, and independence. It builds confidence in your ability to strike out in the world on your own, and that confidence transfers to many other aspects of life. You grow, you learn, and you have the satisfaction of knowing that you are one hella strong woman. You learn to catch yourself when you fall, not rely on others. 

If you choose solo travel, you choose to get to know yourself a little better. Think about it: you are putting yourself in foreign, new circumstances. You are forced out in the open in a way, where you choose your reactions and get to know your natural strengths and limitations. You have time to process, think, and feel with no outsider’s opinion or projection. You will take the lead in exploring what naturally attracts you; you tap into previously-undiscovered sides of yourself. 

Solo travel is freedom: You can do you .

In many ways, one of the most exhausting aspects of travel is actually just the company of your travel buddies. Remove fellow travelers from the equation, and suddenly, you have a wide open itinerary that you get to design and cater to your every whim. Cue a sigh of relaxation . You don’t have to ask anyone what they want to do or eat or sleep or talk about. It’s your opportunity to flex your freedom and celebrate what you–and you alone–love.

Check out our article on focusing on yourself without the stigma of feeling selfish .

Solo travel offers an opportunity to flex your wings. It is a liberating feeling to make decisions on the fly about how you want to spend the day. You can be driving in your car and turn it south or north or west or east or through a dirt field, all without consulting a soul. Solo travel is about indulging those whims that you can’t indulge in everyday life.

You are your own friend, too. It can be quite refreshing and eye-opening to realize that not all life experiences have to be shared with another human being to make them valuable. Getting back in touch with your own individuality, humor, and passions will ground and empower you.

Check out our article on why you should take yourself out on a solo date .

Solo travel offers the space and perspective you seek

Traveling alone can serve as much-needed personal time and space. Life can be full of stress, complexities, and taxing personal situations at home. However, do not reduce travel to being an escape from your problems; it is an opportunity to gain more perspective on your problems. Sometimes a little space and time to yourself is all you need. The rest of the world can fade away for a time, while you switch lenses from a magnifying glass to a telescope to see what life just is right now. Solo travel offers silence and time for contemplation and self-assessment of your mental and emotional well-being .

Solo travel will change your perception of travel itself

You may be well-traveled, but traveling solo is a whole other ball-game. Solo travel will not be “fun” in the same traditional sense as it is when you are with family and friends, but you are able to find so many more unexpected benefits and meaningful aspects of a travel experience if you look beyond. Travel can make you a better, stronger, more adjusted and well-rounded human being; it is not just about having fun.

You will meet more new people if you travel alone

You are more likely to make new friendships if you travel alone. Instead of staying comfortable within the same traveling group, you are more likely to be open to initiate connections with other people along the way, especially with other solo travelers! You won’t easily forget friends you make while traveling . They tend to stick in memory and fondness, even if you don’t stay in regular contact. 

Solo travel could make travel more budget-friendly for you

If finance is a significant factor, then solo travel can easily respect your bank account. With only one person’s schedule, wishes, and budget in consideration, you can get a great travel deal if you’re willing to be flexible with your destination and timeline.

Check out our article on keeping travel budget-friendly

How to Prepare for Solo Travel

Start small for your first solo trip . Stay closer to home , see how it goes, and get to know your level of comfortability with traveling alone, as opposed to jetting off to Asia for your first solo experience.

Have ways to comfort and stabilize you . How are you going to work through a low moment without having a co-traveller? Your people won’t be around you to ground and assist you when you are having any type of negative moment, so know your best go-to self-soothing methods, whether it's yoga, your Kindle, journal , tea, your favorite blanket, your self-care or skincare routine. You know best what will work!

Read our article on feeling at home while traveling .

Be prepared to be fully self-sufficient and embrace that challenge with excitement . Solo travel challenges you and forces you to adapt to unexpected situations. Keep your wits about you, because good judgment is crucial when traveling alone!

Redefine the word “mistake.” Sometimes you have to learn the hard way. Don’t beat yourself up, and don’t let mishaps or mistakes discourage you. Instead of using the word “disaster,” try “misadventure” or “lesson,” and try to view it as such.

Put yourself in communal, friendly environments, such as hostels. Making friends along the way can greatly add to your travel experience. Sit at the bar for dinner instead of your own private table. Check out group tours in state parks, walking city tours, bar crawls, or look into group trips where a travel company organizes your outings, lodging, meals, and transportations for you.

Join the “Outdoorsy Gals” Facebook group. It is an immensely supportive all-women group that celebrates female travel, and inspires you to get off your computer screen and out into the real world. You can meet hiking buddies in your area or locals of the destination you are heading to, and get advice/tips for specific areas of the U.S.

Safety Tips for Solo Women Travelers

The best mantra of solo female travel is: Do not get into situations you cannot get yourself out of . 

Before you go and jet off around the world to your heart’s desire, here are some guidelines on how to have a safe trip.

Set Yourself Up For Success

It is easy to tell yourself that you are just going to “wing it.” While that can work out in the end, in some situations, that attitude often boils down to pride, ignorance, or laziness. If you are traveling alone, you have less room for error and less to fall back on. Self-reliance is tested and part of that is being smart and planning smartly . So first, set yourself up for success by gathering the knowledge and tools necessary for safety and well-being, and then wing it.

Have a Backup Plan

Yes, not only have a plan, but have an escape route. If A doesn’t work, what is Plan B? If Plan A is “Send it!!” (aka no plan), then Plan B should be stored in the back part of your brain—just in case sleeping in the train station in Amsterdam turns out to be way sketchier than expected.

Do Not Get Into Situations You Cannot Get Yourself Out Of

Sometimes s—t hits the fan and it’s not your fault, but nine times out of ten, you can avoid unsafe situations while traveling if you are intentional and have foresight. You will have to constantly exercise your self-reliance muscle, one that requires a lot of trial and error. 

You are definitely going to have some major “oops” moments, like realizing you shouldn’t have rolled your eyes when your dad offered to teach you how to change a tire, except you’re realizing it god-knows-where-in-Arkansas when you’re peering at the black rubber puddle that used to be a tire, without a car or house in sight. Oops. Not all “oops” moments are comical, like not bringing enough water when hiking the Utah backcountry under the sweltering sun in August. That goes from “oops” to a life-threatening situation in a heartbeat.

Have The Necessary Equipment

See below for a few personal items you should have when traveling alone. Keeping a form of self-defense weapon on your person is a smart choice. There are many small, portable, and quick options, such as pepper spray , a pocket knife , stun gun whistle, or alarm keychain .

Be Aware and Informed

Stay informed on current weather conditions, local customs and culture, and the news of the area you are visiting. When in a foreign city, keep your head on a swivel, be aware of your surroundings, avoid going out at night or walking back to your lodging in the dark, and stay in populated areas/streets.

Keep Your Personal Identification On You

…and don’t give out personal information! It is not wise to broadcast in certain circumstances that you are traveling alone. Your solo status does not have to be shared information with everyone you come across in your travels. 

Sleep With Your Valuables Within Reach

If you are car camping, have your keys in an accessible place that you can grab at a moment's notice. If you are staying in a hostel , have your passport, wallet, and any other valuables in your bed with you.

Someone Should Know Your Whereabouts At All Times

If something happens to you, when would someone realize you are missing, who would that be, and where is the last place you would be able to be traced? If you go off the grid, you delay a potential rescue. Make a habit of signing your name at the record book many hiking trails keep at their access point.

Talk To Locals

Get their advice and perspective about the safest and best places to stay, the favorite local restaurants to try, neighborhoods to avoid, and customs and general knowledge you may not have heard.

Listen To Your Gut

If your gut says don’t walk down that street, if your gut says that stranger looks creepy, if your gut says this seems like a bad idea, if your gut says that backroad looks super gnarly and might pop a tire, if your gut says it is time to stop hiking and turn around before the sun sets, listen to it. Our brains sometimes malfunction and push us in directions we should not attempt. Learning to trust yourself and your gut judgment in solo travel is a process of ups and downs, one where you just keep swimming . You are discovering your weaknesses and strengths, and it can take time.

Travel Essentials As a Solo Female Traveler

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Hidden Travel Belt

Carry on backpack, portable charger, pepper spray, lipstick-sized stun gun, swiss army knife, she's birdie -- personal alarm, combination locks, first aid kit, universal travel adaptor.

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Safety of abbeys and monasteries is attracting solo female travellers

For centuries, abbeys and monasteries provided weary travellers and pilgrims with succour and refuge on often dangerous and fraught journeys. Now, according to a new survey from Monastaries.com , a specialist accommodation provider, travelling women are rediscovering these ancient refuges in a still dangerous modern world.

Their recent research found that 88% of women feel somewhat unsafe when travelling solo across the UK and Europe. Despite this, the number of solo female travellers outnumbers male travellers 67% to 37%.

"Women are increasingly setting off on their own adventures, with 27% of British women saying they are considering a holiday alone. Eighty-one per cent of solo female travellers are over 45 years old," Lily Smith, a travel expert from Monasteries.com, said.

"There are many factors that may have influenced this statistic - a newfound confidence as you get older, children leaving home, divorce, or just a desire to experience new things."

However, for many women, their safety is an important consideration, despite traditional accommodation falling short of their expectations. Only a minority of those surveyed felt safe staying alone in a holiday property rental or a large hotel, at 37% and 35% respectively.

"For that reason, many women are surprised but delighted to discover they are able to stay in monasteries and convents both here in the UK and in many countries across Europe," Ms Smith said.

"That might be a surprise to some people but, remember, monasteries have offered sanctuary to pilgrims and travellers for centuries, with a vow of 'hospitality' a feature for many religious orders."

Ms Smith said that despite what people might expect, accommodation at sites such as abbeys or monasteries comes with only a few more restrictions than standard providers, yet can offer a far more welcoming and unique experience—nor are they limited to people from a religious background.

"Often, the only major restriction might be a curfew, which is typically between 10pm and midnight. For many solo female travellers, however, the safety this offers may actually prove an attraction," Ms Smith said.

"Perhaps contrary to expectation, there is no requirement for visitors to be of a religious background. Properties are available to any guest, female or male, who is respectful of the surroundings, the lifestyle and the monks or nuns."

Even better, many of them are situated in breathtaking locations and are pleasingly affordable.

"The good news is that abbeys and convents are likely to be centrally located, often close to historical churches or religious landmarks and in cities such as Rome with a clear religious connection," she said.

"Furthermore, the abbeys, convents and monasteries at Monasteries.com, for example, start from as little as €40 a night and provide low-cost city centre stays in some of Europe's most-visited cities...for an increasing number of women travellers, explaining the security and ease of monasteries, convents and abbeys is like preaching to the choir."

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