Borough is steeped in history and is just a 5 minute walk from London Bridge Station. There are a number of relatively short, inexpensive things to do here. Why not combine a few of them and finish off with a relaxing meal in one of the many surrounding restaurants…
Borough Market
Revel in London’s bustling food market. Borough Market is the oldest food market in London and it welcomes you with smells from large pans of sizzling dishes from all over the world. Take the opportunity to taste the variety of cheeses, chutneys and fudge on offer. Purchase one of the pumpkins or squash you haven’t tried before from the colourful displays. Sample some of the exotic juices, steaming hot herbal teas or unusual alcohol, like chocolate wine. Make sure to save room to dine in one of the superb local restaurants later though. Two of my favourites are Arabica Bar & Kitchen, a wonderful Levantine restaurant and Lantana, a delightful Australian restaurant.
The Clink Prison Museum
The Clink Prison Museum is a stone’s throw away from Borough Market. Established in 1144, this prison was rife with disease and survived for around 600 years before being burnt to the ground. It is filled with fascinating historical facts, exhibits, models and hands on activities. The Clink Prison Museum is small and entry costs £7.50 per adult. Read my full review…
The Clink Prison Museum
Restaurants
As well as the eateries within Borough Market itself, there are other restaurants in the surrounding area to choose from. Two of my personal favourites are Arabica Bar & Kitchen and Lantana.
Arabica Bar and Kitchen
Arabica Bar & Kitchen is an Eastern Mediterranean Restaurant in the heart of Borough Market, serving a range of tempting dishes. Seating areas here are great for solo travellers, including an outdoor dining area with burners and indoor tables close to the window, or up at the counter. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable and the food is outstanding. The full review of my solo dining experience can be read here…
Arabica Bar & Kitchen
Lantana
Lantana is located in Southwark Street, a few minutes walk from Borough Market and is one of a chain of Australian cafes in London. It is a bright, airy restaurant with modern music playing. The large windows are ideal for the solo diner to sit and watch the world go by. The food is exquisite and includes several delicious vegan choices too. Read here for my full solo dining review…
Lantana
Tapas Brindisa
Tapas Brindisa is located in Southwark Street and offers some interesting and unique dishes. Particularly enjoyable was the beef with manchego cheese and dark chocolate…
Tapas Brindisa – the full solo dining review
The Golden Hinde
Take a self-guided tour of The Golden Hinde, a life-size replica of Sir Francis Drake’s sailing ship. It was the first English ship to circumnavigate the globe in the late 16th Century. Priced at only £5 per adult, it is a great short activity to combine with another, or something to eat in the area.
Suggested Further Reading:
Things to do in London – Solo activities I have enjoyed
Restaurants in London – restaurants I have enjoyed dining at solo
Hotels in London – places I have stayed on my own