My Guide to London as a Solo Traveler
I took the train ride from Scotland to get to London and spent my 5 days there eating, exploring bookstores, and walking gawking at the spring gardens in bloom. Each day I would simply wander, pop into a cafe, shop, or restaurant, and continue walking about. I stayed in Notting Hill, because why not?! Also, the highlight of the trip was connecting with Clare for lunch on my last day in London. She took the train into the city to meet me at The George, one of the oldest active pubs and her dad's favorite. She had me laughing as she stomped in wearing her new cowboy boots. She wanted to make sure they were appropriate for our upcoming retreat in Montana.
Here's what I planned for my solo time in London and how it turned out.
Where I Stayed
Airbnb in Notting Hill
For the first part of my trip, I embraced the bohemian charm of Notting Hill. The pastel-colored houses and vibrant market atmosphere made it the perfect base for my London adventure.
Ember Locke Kensington
For the last few nights, I moved to Ember Locke Kensington. This place is well-located, with great common spaces including a private garden and an excellent cafe. I was quite happy with my stay here.
Getting Around
I chose to explore the city mostly on foot, averaging 18,000 steps a day! Walking allowed me to soak in the city's atmosphere and discover hidden gems. For longer distances, I used Uber to stay above ground and enjoy the views.
Sightseeing and Shopping
Portobello Road Market
Saturday is the perfect day to visit this iconic market, known for its European vintage items. It’s an absolute treasure trove!
Churchill War Rooms
A surprising highlight! You don’t need to be a history buff to appreciate this underground bunker where Winston Churchill strategized during WWII. The self-guided tour is fascinating and immersive.
Holland Park
Located close to my Airbnb, Holland Park was a delightful escape from the city. On one warm day, I brought along a picnic and enjoyed people-watching amidst the beautiful greenery.
Jermyn Street
Just over from Piccadilly, this street is famous for its gentlemen’s tailors, shoemakers, and haberdasheries. It’s a charming walk through classic British style.
Fortnum & Mason
Known for its exquisite teas and biscuits, I couldn’t resist bringing back enough to last until my next London visit! I found out too late about their cooking class and wine pairings—next time for sure!
Hatchards
The oldest bookstore in London is perfect for sheltering from the rain. I lost myself in the aisles for nearly three hours and loved every moment.
SageBrown Mayfair
A recommendation from friends led me to SageBrown. I bought my son a new wallet for his college graduation, and they even embossed it with his initials at no extra charge. It was a lovely touch!
St. James’s Park
After touring the Churchill War Rooms, I grabbed an ice cream and strolled through St. James’s Park. It was a peaceful way to process everything I had just learned.
Food & Drink
Afternoon Tea at The Goring
Sharing tea at The Goring with Taylor was a royal experience. Rumor has it that Queen Elizabeth herself would visit this elegant hotel. The dining experience was exquisite, and each guest leaves with a jar of their signature raspberry jam. It’s a short walk from Buckingham Palace, making it a convenient for a visit.
Granger & Co. Notting Hill
The best breakfast I had in London. The engaging host kept us entertained while we waited. Totally worth the wait!
Borough Market
This market is a feast for the senses. Known for its grilled cheese and strawberries with melted chocolate, I indulged in fresh strawberries and one of the best cappuccinos I’ve ever had outside of Italy.
Golborne Deli & Wine
Perfect for picking up wine and picnic essentials. The helpful staff guided my selections, and I enjoyed a relaxing time at one of their outdoor cafe tables.
Cadet
Located in a rapidly gentrifying area of London, Cadet was worth the Uber ride. I sampled nearly the entire menu while sipping on delectable wines. The attentive and knowledgeable woman behind the bar made my dining experience memorable. I’ll definitely be back.
Café Society
Tucked away on an obscure side street, Café Society offers excellent coffee and a delicious breakfast and lunch menu. It’s quiet and bright, a perfect retreat.
The George
Meeting Clare at The George, one of London’s oldest pubs, was a fitting end to my trip. Clare’s excitement for our upcoming retreat in Montana was infectious, especially as she stomped in wearing her new cowboy boots! The George, near Borough Market, is steeped in history and a must-visit.
Paxton & Whitfield
This cheese shop is a haven for cheese lovers. You can thank me later!
Dishoom Kensington
I celebrated my last night in London at this modern Indian restaurant and was not disappointed. Dining solo, I let the waiter choose my dishes, and I was thrilled with the unique flavors. The chai was the perfect ending to the meal, leaving me with fond memories of my London culinary adventure.
Fish & Chips
London's street food scene is bustling, and you can't leave without trying the classic fish and chips from any local vendor. It's quick, satisfying, and quintessentially British.
Missed but Recommended
Although I didn’t get to experience everything on my list, here are some spots that come highly recommended and I plan to visit on my next trip:
Ottolenghi: Shared communal seating creates a great environment to enjoy their famed menu.
Timberyard Cafe: A great hub for freelance workers with comfortable seating and a focused atmosphere.
Double-Decker Bus Tour: Embrace the cheesy tourist experience and enjoy a beer as you see the sights.
RHS Chelsea Flower Show: Sadly, I couldn’t get tickets this time, but the gardens throughout London made up for it.
Liberty London: Renowned for their floral prints and vintage shopping.
Word on the Water: A quirky bookstore on a canal barge with both indoor and outdoor shelves—a must-visit for book lovers.
The city’s blend of history, vibrant markets, serene parks, and culinary delights was a perfect backdrop for a solo adventure. London’s charm lies in its ability to offer something for everyone, whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone who loves to wander and discover new places.
Traveling solo allowed me to explore at my own pace, indulge in my interests, and chat with people along the way. It was empowering and incredibly enriching. Solo or not, London is one of my favorite cities and has endless offerings that promise a fulfilling experience every time.
