Sober things to do in London

Whether you're embarking on a dry January or just sober-curious, London might seem like a daunting city to navigate alcohol-free. However, there are plenty of sober alternatives to boozy nights out and ways to experience London sans booze. Here are the best sober things to do in London.

Best London bars for mocktails

If you're just beginning your no or low-alcohol journey, you don't need to avoid bars and nightlife. Club Soda in Covent Garden is a "mindful drinking" shop and tasting room with every alcohol alternative you can imagine and tasting workshops so you can find what you like. They also offer great resources, like articles and podcasts about creating a healthy relationship with alcohol, to help you figure out what works for you.

When you've refined your non-alcoholic palate, The Dandy Bar at The Mayfair Townhouse has an extensive menu of mocktails with inventive recipes crafted by TV personality, Olly Smith. From the refreshing Cherry Blossom inspired by springtime in Edinburgh to the nostalgic Raspberry Mini Egg Cream Soda, the unique flavour combinations will make you forget there actually isn’t any alcohol in them.

Some other favourite bars for non-drinkers include: Soho's Basement Sate for mocktails paired with desserts, Ronnie Scott's for mocktails and world-famous live jazz, blues, and more, and Marylebone's The Lucky Saint pub that prioritises no and low-alcohol beer and mocktails.

No and low-alcohol nights out in London

Live music

We often take for granted that almost any artist will include London on their tour, making live music in the city one of the best sober things to do in London. And whilst many people choose to drink at concerts, when you don’t have to prioritise multiple trips to the bar, you’re able to fully focus and experience the music. Plus, if you don't get a drink you don't have to do that awkward shuffle back through the crowd with your cup over your head trying not to spill on anyone around you.

Lafayette London in King's Cross showcases incredible artists in an intimate setting. They host a variety of performers so you might luck out and see one of your favourites up close and personal or discover an amazing unknown artist. Seeing Maggie Rogers perform here as a warm-up for her tour was definitely a highlight of all the gigs I've seen.

There are great indie music venues all over London. Check out who’s playing and don’t sacrifice your nightlife just because you’re sober.

Dining

No matter the reason you're interested in limiting your alcohol intake, a universal benefit is saving the money that otherwise might have ended up on a bar tab. With this extra cash, treat yourself to a meal at that restaurant you've been meaning to try. And this is London, there are so many restaurants to tuck into across East, West, North, and South – take your pick.

Curious about a veggie or vegan January as well? If you've not yet been to Bubala, this is your sign to make a booking. Serving the most delicious Middle Eastern veggie small plates, try a variety of new dishes with a date or friends and enjoy the experience of stepping out of your comfort zone.

Sweet treats

Instead of going for a drink after dinner, you can indulge in a little sweet treat to take the edge off. London's trendy bakeries and sweet shops can satisfy any sweet tooth. Crème is my go-to and is genuinely worthy of every Instagram Story that's been shared about these decadent cookies.

Things to do in London during Dry Jan

Take advantage of weekend mornings without a hangover.

Sport & fitness

When you're not drinking, you have some extra time on weekend mornings. While no one will judge you if you use these mornings to have a lie in, if you're looking to make the most of your time to become more active, London has many options to get your body moving.

You might be hesitant about becoming the kind of person who wakes up early to work out on the weekends, but London's community fitness groups make exercise less intimidating and keep you motivated. You can join one of London's many walking or running clubs, like Girls Who Walk or London City Runners. For something more adventurous, sign up for one of London Social Hiking's expeditions to some of the UK's most picturesque hiking trails.

If spending that much time outside or going to a traditional gym isn't your thing, now’s the time to let loose at a dance class or find your calm with yoga. Speaking of yoga – for the ultimate dopamine fix, book a class at Puppy Yoga. After a gentle class, you'll meet a litter of adorable puppies looking to snuggle and play. They also host puppy therapy to give you extra time with the pups without any downward-facing dogs.

Rest & relaxation

Making plans may take some extra brainstorming if your idea of relaxing and socialising typically revolves around alcohol. However, indulging in luxurious experiences or transforming your go-to activities into special occasions are some of the best sober things to do in London and makes it easier not to end up at the pub (but again, there’s nothing wrong with spending time in the pub sober).

One of London's most serene experiences is the spa treatment at Aire Ancient Baths. Trade the gloom of January for Mediterranean-style baths where you can lounge and rejuvenate. Book a massage or a DIY self-care package while enjoying the tranquil natural pools.

Tapping into your creative side is also a great alternative to social occasions that usually involve alcohol. Pottery making or painting can be therapeutic or a hilarious evening with friends discovering you have zero artistic talent. Social Pottery offers beginner-friendly classes at its Kentish Town studio throughout the week.

Instead of a heavy pub session, instead indulge in brunch (check out these HeadBox recommendations for brunch in Soho, East London, and South London) and sweet and savoury goodies at one of London's many bakeries – you still need some vices after all.

Support your local indie cinema

Get off your sofa and reacquaint yourself with the cinema. Hold off on going to your local chain and support independent cinema (while treating yourself to a cosy evening) at the Electric Cinema in Notting Hill, Genesis in Whitechapel, Rio in Dalston, ArtHouse in Crouch End, or Peckhamplex in Peckham (tickets are £4.99!). Don’t fancy any current films? The Prince Charles Cinema in Leicester Square screens beloved classics across multiple decades.

Experience London arts & culture

Take advantage of the many free museums and art galleries the city has to offer or stop by an art café for an afternoon catch-up with a mate. Spend that extra cash you have to experience an exhibition, and since you’re embracing London culture with all that extra time, cash, and energy check out London’s world-class theatre as well.

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