Whether it’s your first or hundredth trip, London is always a good idea! England in my opinion, is the perfect place for a solo trip. The culture is different enough to feel foreign, while having the comfort of English speakers keeps you at ease. Grab your passport, your umbrella, and practice your best “cheerio”- and head across the pond! These are my top tips for solo travel in London!
Don’t be afraid of the Tube
The Tube, The Underground… they both mean the same thing (but whatever you do, don’t call it “the subway.”)
If you’re familiar with public transportation systems in other cities, then you will find that London’s is a breeze to follow. If not, then you’ve picked a great city to start learning! The system is very easy and user-friendly, definitely more so than cities like NYC! Every station has clear signs that list the stations that each train will be stopping at. Meaning, it’s nearly impossible to get on a train going the wrong way!
Aside from it being incredibly easy to use, it’s also a very cost and time efficient way to get around the city. Tube stations are all over and are generally pretty close together. If you miss your stop, the next one is usually only a short walk away. Plus, riding it helps you feel more like a local!
Look Right
We all know that they drive on the left in England, right? Of course! But it’s so important to make a habit of looking both ways before you step into the street. While on two-way streets, cars will be coming from your right, London has tons of one-way streets as well where they may instead be coming from your left. It really does mess with your head!
In high-tourist areas, they typically have the phrase “Look Right” painted on the streets. You can see it in the photo above of Abbey Road, in the bottom left. While this has saved me many times, one time I was walking on my way to see Mamma Mia in London’s West End when I got to a street and stopped. Out of habit, I turned my head to the left and saw no cars coming. Instinctively, I took a step out into the street as I turn my head to the right to check for cars. Just like that, a car whizzes by and misses me only by a matter of inches. I was definitely pretty shaken up after that and am thankful I wasn’t hurt (or worse)!
Download the region in Google Maps
Even if you don’t spring for the international data plan and are essentially unplugged all day, that doesn’t mean you have to get lost! Whenever you have a WiFi connection, pull up an area on Google Maps and click the “…” in the upper right corner. From there, click “Download offline map”. Obviously the larger area you download, the longer it will take, but usually takes about 20-30 minutes. This will allow you to zoom in and see streets, landmarks, train and bus stops- all while being offline!
Take the train from the airport
Both main airports in London (Heathrow and Gatwick) have express trains that will take you directly into the center of London.
The Heathrow Express is a high-speed rail train that travels from Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5 straight to London’s Paddington Station. Purchasing day-of tickets will run you approximately £20, but doing a bit of planning ahead of time can save you a small fortune. By booking your ticket at least 90 days in advance, you can get a one-way ticket for only £5.50! From Paddington Station, you can easily connect to the Bakerloo, Central, and District tube lines for easy access to other areas of the city.
The Gatwick Express is – you guessed it – another express train from Gatwick Airport direct to London’s Victoria Station. Tickets can be purchased directly at the station and vary between peak and off-peak hours. On average, they will cost you about £20 each way. Purchasing tickets online in advance will save a few pounds, but nothing too substantial. From Victoria, you can easily connect to the Circle, District, and Victoria lines for access around London.
Walk on the left
Just like driving, people in England walk on the left of the sidewalk. Especially in high traffic and high tourist areas, you’ll want to keep the flow moving and not hold up foot traffic. In low-traffic areas, keep to the left side of the sidewalk when passing by others, and “overtake” on the right.
It really can mess with your head, but when in doubt- just follow everyone else!
Bonus Tip: Invest in a theft-proof bag
Keep your mind free from worry as you oh, I don’t know… straddle the Prime Meridian for example! 😉
Some of the best money I have ever spent for peace of mind. I have an anti-theft backpack from Travelon that I use on my travels. I make special note to pack this bag when I will be in big cities around lots of people. Anti-theft bags are slash proof, have locking zippers, and clasps so you can wrap the straps around anything (especially the back of your chair when you’re eating in a restaurant). These make me feel so secure that I will often travel during the day with my passport, credit cards, and cash inside rather than leaving them in my hotel room.
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