University life resembles an exciting transition, both academically and socially. While the stereotypical image of university life often revolves around wild nights out and heavy drinking, this lifestyle can take a toll on your physical and mental health. But rest assured – London offers endless opportunities for fun without the need of alcohol. In this article, I will suggest 20 affordable, sober things to do in London – from well-known attractions to hidden gems for unique, alcohol-free days!
1.Get lost in museums and galleries
London is renowned for its incredible array of museums and galleries. From the iconic Tate Modern to the lesser-known treasures like the Horniman Museum and Gardens in South-East London, there really is something for everyone. I recently visited the Horniman’s butterfly house, which is definitely a must see!
2. Visit London’s famous markets
Girl math says that if money is not spent on drinks, it technically being made, so can be spent on delicious food instead. London’s numerous markets offer a variety of different food options – my favourite is Camden Market for delicious arepas, while Borough Market is perfect for fresh, gourmet food. If vintage finds are more your style, Portobello Road Market is the best in the business. Don’t forget to stop via Columbia Road Flower Market on the way home for a bunch of gorgeous flowers!
3.Stroll through London’s parks
Some fond memories of mine are afternoons spent sunbathing in Regents park or taking a pedal boat out on the Hyde Park pond. Hampstead Heath is also another option if you fancy open water swimming. Rumour has it Harry Styles often frequents this area of outstanding natural beauty – making it an even more attractive option!
4.Enjoy a theatre show in the West End
The razzle-dazzle of the West End theatre district should not be overlooked. Whilst theatre tickets can be on the pricey side there are lots of companies who offer last minute theatre tickets to some of the best shows!
5. Get lost in a bookstore
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For the bookworms out there, this one is so for you. Dotted around central London are hidden bookstores such as Foyles and Daunt books where you can grab a coffee and curl up to read a book.
6. Experience live music
Keep an eye out for live music events hosted in the city as they are a fun way to have a party without it being supported by alcohol. If you enjoy nights out that aren’t supported by alcohol there are so many more to explore in our article: ’10 fun sober nights out in London’.
7. Do an exercise class
The app Classpass is an excellent way to locate exercise classes within the city that range from Barry’s bootcamp to reformer pilates. Maybe even think about puppy yoga which is becoming a popular choice amongst animal lovers!
8.Visit the Sky Garden
With panoramic views from London’s skyscraper, The Shard, the Sky Garden is an excellent place to admire everything that London has to offer. Better still, the journey up is free – with a fancy restaurant at the summit.
9. Take a day trip outside of London
London is so amazingly connected via rail networks – 1 hour on the train can whisk you right to the beautiful British coastline. Especially in summer months places like Brighton, Hastings and Eastbourne are appealing for a relaxing picnic by the sea.
10. Go cycling
The ‘Tour de London’ is the perfect opportunity to combine healthy exercise and sightseeing. Bikes such as Lime bikes and the famous Boris bikes are readily available and cheap to rent. Just be wary of the rush hour traffic!
11. Do a river cruise
The Uber boat is a great way to move through London the traditional way and with the boat stopping at 24 piers along the Thames, it is an easy way to hop on and off at your discretion. Also, you can take your bike on board at no extra cost.
12. Watch a show at the Globe Theatre
The Globe theatre is one of London’s oldest landmarks, built in 1599 on the banks on the river Thames, in Southwark. Spend a sober afternoon watching a spot of Shakespeare or just touring around this wonderful masterpiece of a theatre.
13. Enter an escape room
Escape rooms are an excellent way to spend an afternoon and build rapport among team members. If there is a large group up for a sober afternoon – this is the perfect way to spend it.
14. Explore Little Venice
Quite literally what it says on the tin, London’s Little Venice is the ideal place to stroll around and be the main character. Thats amore!
15. Wander around God’s own junkyard
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God’s own junkyard is a museum based in Walthamstow and is the ideal place if you like all things shiny and bright. With thousands of neon signs it is so Instagrammable and there is a café where coffee can be enjoyed.
16. Immerse yourself in a silent disco
Continuing with the neon theme, Battersea power station is a prime location which offers both nights and afternoons of silent discos. A slightly strange experience but definitely worthwhile, and one of the best sober things to do in London – just remember not to take your headphones off!
17. Visit Eel Pie island
A hidden gem on the River Thames, Eel Pie island is a quirky artist community with a rich history in London’s dance hall scene. Accessible by boat or on foot, explore the art galleries that it has to offer for a unique day out.
18. Check out an alternative cinema
If youre bored of paying extortionate prices for mediocre cinema experiences, The Electric Cinema in Portobello road is sophisticated and quirky, giving the real feel of classical cinema. Alternatively, explore Peckham’s cinematic scene at the open air cinema next door at the Bussey building.
19. Try a VR experience
Engage with the future by exploring London’s cutting-edge virtual reality experiences. Escape to a different world and enjoy this 21st century experience. You don’t need alcohol with this amazing sober thing to do in London.
20. Do pottery painting
For a quieter, more grounded day you could unleash your creative side by visiting one of the many pottery painting studios that London has to offer. Social Pottery in Kentish Town is a personal favourite but there are many others to explore. It is a mindful and therapeutic way to spend a day in the city.
London is a city that has so much more than just its bustling nightlife, offering countless ways to enjoy it without alcohol. So, don’t let a social focus on alcohol put you off exploring the city because there reality is something for everyone here. Also, as the university term approaches; visit the article ’15 fun sober things to do during freshers’. for some tried and tested ideas!
I am a final year student at University College London (UCL) studying BA French and Spanish. I have just returned from an amazing Year abroad in Paris and Madrid. However, there really is no place like home and I am excited to return home to London and explore more exciting opportunities!
