nicolev

Hi everyone,
I'm traveling alone for the first time - planning a trip to London, staying in Notting Hill. Any recommendations on places to go at night - safe, fun and wouldn't make me feel lonely? I can come up with plenty of things to do during the day but not sure about at night but don't want to miss out on fun places.

Thanks!
Nicole

david_west

Notting Hill is an up-market area popular with media and other bohemian types. It’s always had a raffish image. It’s safe enough. However it is surrounded by areas (specifically Ladbroke Grove) that are as rough as ten bears. So stick to the Notting Hill end of Portobello Rd, as well as the main streets

Notting Hill is full of trendy bars, pubs clubs and restaurants. You’ll be OK in any of them. If you have any specific questions I’d be happy to help (and you should post your query on the Europe forum – you’ll get loads of replies)

SusieQQ

Make sure you schedule some shows while you are there. It is perfectly safe to take the tube back and forth from the West End.

MHS

Also, using the tube, do a walking tour -- Jack the Ripper is a very popular one. Asking or searching about them on the Europe board will give you lots of suggestions & opinions. The one we did in '03 was on Westminister (political not religious) and we ended up with being able to go into an evening session of Parliment -- really a once in a lifetime experience.

Enjoy your trip.

LEANNA

I 2nd the Jack the Ripper walking tour. Really fun. And its amazing how dark and scary that area still feels!!But you are very very safe w/ the tour group and well protected. I was alone and just loved the entire experience. London is fabulous....and just ask ?s whenever you feel unsure.....I think its the kindest city in the world to strangers. I've had people walk me out of their way to make sure I got on the right tubes etc. Great place.

Carrybean

I'll 3rd the Jack the Ripper tour. Great fun.

JPfan

I went to London this past July and I second the person who said it's one of the nicest cities in the world! I'm a single woman and I went solo. I never had to worry about being lost. People always stopped to help me find my way. I've never been treated so well in my life! And I never felt unsafe. Ever. Go and have a wonderful time.

letaredo

Hi,

I planned a solo trip to London that lasted 6 months. (I finally stayed there working in a coffe shop). I'm a woman, I went when I was about 23 and I did'nt feel scary in that city...I really enjoyed my trips in and around the city... The only thing I avoided was pubs in isolated areas in its closing time!!
I truly recommend the city!