A Solo Traveller’s Guide To London

Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge | © hans-jürgen2013/Flickr
Lisa Brooke

With such a rich history, London is a go-to place to take in the views, history, and, of course, some fun and excitement for both first timers and regular visitors. However, London can also take any visitor by storm with its bustling streets and winding roads; however, don’t let this stop you from the seemingly endless places to visit, different foods to try, things to see, and items to buy. Jump in and enjoy.

Grab a Delicious Meal

Some of the most delicious food in the world is served in London, including some authentic cuisines you can only get within this busy city. Many five-star restaurants take reservations, or drop-ins, if you’re strolling through the area and find yourself hungry. For those who want to enjoy an authentic fish and chips meal, the place that has become the undisputed top spot is Toff’s. It is known as one of London’s finest family-owned and run businesses, which many locals have tried to keep secret for quite some time. You’ve probably heard about the gastropubs as well, a few of the best being Anchor & Hope, Horseshoe, Railway Tavern, Hibiscus, and Cow. You will be sure to enjoy these classy eateries. If you are looking for the finest dining, London has several Michelin-star restaurants such as the three-starred Gordon Ramsey and Alain Ducasse at the Dorchester, the two-starred Sketch Lecture Room & Library and Le Gavroche, and the one-starred Galvin La Chappelle and The Goring Dining Room, just to name a few.
Hibiscus, 29 Maddox St, London, UK, +44 20 7629 2999
Gordon Ramsay Group, 539-547 Wandsworth Rd, London, UK, +44 20 7592 1360

Delicious Meal

Indulge In The History Of The Iconic Buildings

Tower of London from the River Thames

Go Cycling With Santander Cycles

One of the neatest things in London is the public bike hire. Best known by the name Boris Bikes (Boris Johnson), this scheme gives everyone the opportunity to ride around the gorgeous city. Cycling through such a beautiful city can provide you with a whole new way to experience the area. It’s easy to get lost in the scenery; biking affords you the opportunity to see things you wouldn’t otherwise notice via bus or car. While you slip on your cycling bib shorts, consider taking a ride through one of the great parks, like Richmond Park or Regent’s Park. Each provides its own set of challenges for bikers, but one is just as breath-taking as the other.
Richmond Park, Richmond, Greater London, UK
Regent’s Park, Chester Rd, London, UK

Cycling at Richmond Park London

Go to a Museum

With so much evidence of history throughout London, many museums are open to tell you the tales of the past. If you want to learn about the rich history of London, each museum has a unique story to share. With over two million years of human history exhibited, The British Museum provides every visitor with something new they can learn. Home to the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian Mummies, the museum receives thousands of visitors every year. The Natural History Museum welcomes one and all to take part in hundreds of interactive displays and exhibits. Some less-visited, and highly recommended, interactive displays and events include the After Hours Dino Snores (for grown-ups), Parasites Day, and Colour and Vision: Through the Eyes of Nature.
British Museum, Great Russell St, London, UK, +44 20 7323 8299
Natural History Museum, Cromwell Rd, London, UK, +44 20 7942 5000

London British Museum

Shop at All of the Favourites – Harrods and Hamleys

With numerous stores to check out, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Grab lunch and shop down many of the squares filled with high-end stores. Whether you are seeking out upmarket stores like Harrods or want to purchase something for your children (or yourself, we won’t judge) from Hamleys, there are plenty of luxury and designer shops to enjoy.
Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Rd, Knightsbridge, London, UK, +44 20 7730 1234
Hamleys, 188-196 Regent St, London, UK, +44 371 704 1977

Hamleys, Regent Street’s Shopping Guide

Check Out the Pubs for a Drink

The pubs in London are the most raved about in the country. With a wide selection of beer in bottles and on tap, you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy. Pubs are a great gathering place in London: you can sit back, relax, and unwind while enjoying some trivia, laugh, and just be a part of the London scene. Get a little history and settle in between antiques of all types at The Ship Tavern. Or head to the place known as Charles Dickens’ haunt, the Lamb & Flag, providing ice cold drinks in addition to traditional pub cooking.
Ship Tavern, 12 Gate St, London, UK, +44 20 7405 1992
Lamb and Flag, 33, Rose St, London, UK, +44 20 7497 9504

Pub in London

Soak In the Night Life

If you’ve come to London seeking an out-of-this-world club experience, you’ve come to the right place. The Roof Gardens will take you to the roof for an open sky all-night experience. The Old Queen’s Head makes for an edgier experience; music ranges from top DJs to bands on the rise. Either venue, and a score of others, will have you dancing, and partying, the night through, enjoying an after-hours experience that only London can provide. Enjoy, and then enjoy some more; then, get ready for your next night in London, England. Where will it take you?
The Roof Gardens, 99 Kensington High St, Kensington, London, UK, +44 20 7937 7994
The Old Queen’s Head, 44 Essex Rd, London, UK, +44 20 7354 9993

Kensington Roof Gardens

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