OVER HALF OF BRITS DITCH PLANS WITH FRIENDS TO SPEND TIME ALONE AS SOLO TRAVEL RISES

The cultural phenomenon of plans never making it out of the group chat is a universal experience. Plans are made, destinations are shared, ideas build momentum – and then… cancelled. But why does it happen?

New insight[1] reveals that more than half of UK adults (55%) admit to cancelling plans with friends and family in favour of taking time for themselves. The trend is even more pronounced among younger generations, with 77% of Gen Z and 74% of Millennials saying they would opt out of plans altogether for some much needed ‘me time’.

So, with solo time becoming a growing priority, and plans consistently struggling to leave the group chat, London Northwestern Railway (LNR) is encouraging people to rethink how they spend their leisure time. Swapping stints at home for experiences out in the world, with or without company.

From cultural hotspots to hidden gems, London offers a range of options that are simple to enjoy solo. To inspire solo travellers, LNR has pulled together a selection of standout solo spots across the capital that are easy to reach by train.

Seven solo destinations worth stepping out for

From peaceful pockets to cultural hotspots, London is full of places that are even better on your own. Here are LNR’s favourites, all within easy reach of London Euston:

Sir John Soane’s Museum
If you love feeling like you’ve found a real hidden gem, this is the place. This former home of the world-renowned architect, Sir John Soane, is packed floor-to-ceiling with art, artefacts and hidden details, designed to be explored slowly. It’s perfect for solo visitors who want to wander without a plan and stumble across something unexpected – and as a bonus, entry is free!

Leadenhall Market
An architectural gem tucked away in the city, Leadenhall Market is (literally) made for aimless wandering. Visit outside the lunchtime rush and you’ll be welcomed to a calm space – ideal for a coffee, a slow stroll, and a bit of people-watching beneath its ornate glass roof. Plus, with regular craft fairs and flea markets in the calendar, you could even pick yourself up a piece of Leadenhall treasure as a souvenir.

Barbican Conservatory
A tropical escape in the middle of the city, this hidden garden is filled with lush greenery, koi carp, and tucked-away seating spots that scream cosy reading nook. Admission to this urban oasis is free, you’ll just need to grab a ticket online before heading in. It’s the kind of place where outside time slows down, making it ideal for switching off, recharging and enjoying a moment to yourself.

The Courtauld Gallery
Nicknamed a ‘treasure-house’ for post-impressionist art, The Courtauld offers world-class works, without the overwhelming crowds. Take your time, linger a little longer, and enjoy art from iconic artists like Manet and Van Gough at your own pace – no rushing, no pressure, just a genuinely absorbing solo experience.

The British Library
Right on Euston’s doorstep, bookworms can rejoice (for free) in the UK’s most iconic library. Home to everything from handwritten Beatles lyrics to centuries-old manuscripts, the library is an ideal place to slow down and switch off from the noise of the city. Dip into an exhibition, find a quiet corner, or simply enjoy the calm of one of London’s most quietly inspiring spaces.

Primrose Hill
When the weather is good, head up Primrose Hill. The sweeping views across the London skyline make it a go-to for a moment of perspective. Grab a coffee from the café, find a bench, and take it all in. For the ultimate experience, head to the peak just before sunset and take in stunning sundown views of the skyline.

Marylebone High Street
Everyone loves a mooch around the shops, and Marylebone high street is an ideal place to window-shop to your heart’s content. With a perfect mix of high street favourites, boutiques, and independent shops like the famous Daunt Books bookshop, the instagrammable Balamory-style streets are perfect for a midday wander.

Laura Donnelly, a spokesperson for London Northwestern Railway, said:

“Group chats are great for making plans, but they’re just as good at delaying them. It’s easy for ideas to stay in the chat rather than making it into the diary.

“We know more people are choosing to prioritise ‘me time’, often cancelling plans altogether in favour of staying in. But, taking that time out for yourself doesn’t have to mean missing out – it can be an opportunity to do something you’ve been meaning to do, with or without the group chat.

“Whether it’s exploring somewhere new, revisiting a favourite spot, or simply enjoying your own company for a few hours, solo travel gives people the freedom to do exactly what they want, when they want. So next time your group chat cancels, you can simply say: sorry, I’ve got plans”

In a bid to help Brits say yes to plans, with or without the group chat, LNR has something exciting coming on 27th April, sign up to find out more.