Hey! If you’re reading this it means you’ve reached the end of The Solo Travellers Guide to London. But of course, you’ve probably got some more questions.
If you’ve been following me on Instagram you’d know I’ve been taking you along the entire journey of making this guide, including asking what questions you’d like answered! Here’s a complied list of each along with a resource to help plan your trip even more. Enjoy!
Q: How can I find the safest neighbourhoods to stay in London?
The majority of London neighbourhoods are generally safe. But take a look at my London neighbourhood guide and the ‘solo travel accommodation’ section for neighbourhoods I’d personally recommend. You can check the crime rates in a certain area on the Met Police website.
Q: Do you have a map of London?
Here’s a neighbourhood map of the city! If you go on Visit London’s website they also have a tube, bus, accessibility and cycling route map for you to download, too.
Q: Is Central London walkable?
Extremely walkable! It’s also why I recommend using Citymapper during your trip to check the distance between your locations. Most of time it’ll end up being quicker to walk than take the tube or bus!
Q: Is it cheaper to take the tube or bus?
The bus is cheaper than the tube. Plus with the Hopper Fare you can take an unlimited amount of bus rides in an hour for just £1.55. Can’t beat it.
Q: Should I only explore Zone 1?
Definitely not! Although it’s inevitable this is where you’ll spend most of your time if you’re exploring London for the first time, I highly suggest venturing off to Zone 2, 3 and even 6! For example, visiting Hampstead, Greenwich, Richmond and Hampton Court.
Q: What are the best places to eat alone?
You may have noticed I didn’t include the best solo dining spots in this guide. For one, I myself don’t have a “top 10 places to eat” as it changes all the time. It also greatly depends on food preferences.
If you’re traveling solo I think the market scene is the best way to go, there’s also some amazing view-worthy restaurants like Duck & Waffle and Tavolino (the one on 2 More London Riverside) if you want to treat yourself. Also if you type in #londonfoodblogger on Instagram you’ll find loads of recommendations for every foodie type.
Q: Do places in London accept cash?
Since the pandemic the majority of places in London only accept card or contactless payment (although you still may use cash at some mom-and-pop spots).
Q: Can I use my card from my home country in London?
Most places in London accept major credit and debit cards (like Mastercard and Visa) but that doesn’t mean your home country won’t charge you a massive fee. I would get a Wise card before your trip so you can have all your international currencies in one place. I’ve used them for years!
Q: What if I feel unsafe in a bar/restaurant in London?
Ask for Angela. It’s a safety initiative from the MET designed to keep you safe when you’re out without making it obvious to the harasser. Read more about it here.
Q: What’s the safest way to travel across London?
I always travel by the tube or the bus — but if it’s really late and you don’t feel comfortable making the walk back to your accommodation at night, then go for an Uber (I personally walk, it all depends on your own comfort level).
Q: What ride-sharing apps are there in London?
Uber, Lyft, Bolt, Ola and Addison Lee are the big ones here. Make sure to use the discount codes they give you for first-time rides.
Q: How do you contact people abroad on your London trip?
I’d personally get a UK SIM a few weeks before your trip (here’s the one I got on Amazon). Pop it in before your flight and you’ll have data when you land. Just make sure your your phone is unlocked first.
Q: What apps should I use if I want to date during my trip?
I’ve personally used and recommend Bumble and Hinge (I actually met my partner on Bumble!), but I would only recommend Tinder if you’re looking for something short-term.
Q: How do I make friends during my solo trip?
All in all it comes down to being open to making new connections and consciously putting yourself out there. Read through this blog post for super practical tips on how that looks in action when it comes to making friends in London.
Q: Why didn’t you include coffee shop recommendations in the solo travel guide?
Because I’ve got hundreds! Have a look through my London coffee guides section on the blog to find the best ones near your area during your trip.
Q: Best afternoon teas in London?
Here’s the best affordable afternoon teas in London. I also love the afternoon tea at The Brown’s Hotel, Fortnum and Mason’s and Fait Maison Salon de Thé.
Q: Where can I charge my phone during my trip?
There’s a few charging stations in pubs and cafes like Chargebox or Chargepoint if you’re low on battery. But honestly I suggest bringing a big portable charger with you everyday of your trip (here’s the one I have).
Q: Black-owned business recommendations?
I’ve got you! Here’s 50+ Black-Owned Businesses in London to support.
Bonus Resources:
📸 101+ Instagrammable Spots in London
✨ 101+ Free Things to do in London
If there’s anything else you’re looking for I’ve got 100’s of recommendations on the blog. Just use the search function below, for example ‘Notting Hill cafes’ and something will pop up.
P.S – I’ll be updating this page with FAQs as they come. So if there’s any other questions you’d like answered here please shoot me a DM @candaceabroad.
Happy Londoning,
