From Solo to Social: Where Newcomers in London Make Friends Fast
London's thrilling, but let's be honest—it can feel huge and anonymous, especially if you're new or wandering solo. But good news: across the city, there are places and systems ripe for making real connections—no swiping required. Here are the top ways locals build communities, spark friendships, and find their social squad.
1. Meetup Magic: Groups That Welcome You In
Meetup.com is a goldmine when it comes to making friends. Whether it’s themed brunches, board game nights, or museum tours, there's something for every interest—and many of these events are free or low-cost.
One of the most popular groups, Friends in London, runs movie nights, gallery walks, live music hangouts, and picnics with over 27,000 members and 95% of events free. A smaller option, Like-Minded People in London, offers 4 socials monthly with a cozy 15–20 person vibe.
2. Shared Passion = Instant Connection
Joining interest-based groups gives you something to talk about from the start.
Meetup categories range across: photography, writing, anime, film, culture, and more.
Creative classes like painting, songwriting, or life drawing are great for connection.
Physical groups include hiking, ping-pong, yoga, and casual sports.
These regular meetups build familiarity—which is the foundation of meaningful friendships. (Redditors echo this: staying consistent with your hobby group is the key to connection.)
3. Creative Social Nights: Supper Clubs & Painting
More of a creative soul than a clubber? Step into supper clubs or "sip-and-paint" nights.
Gen Z Londoners are reviving supper clubs as cozy social hubs for chatting over food—not just meeting dates.
PopUp Painting hosts laid-back art nights in bars where you paint, sip, and socialize—all supplies included and no skill required.
4. Move Together, Connect Together
Getting active is a fantastic way to meet people without awkward small talk.
Run Dem Crew is an award-winning urban running group led by DJ Charlie Dark—more hip-hop community than race team.
Redditors also suggest climbing gyms, dodgeball leagues, and dance socials as great for friendship-building.
5. Walk & Talk: Friendship on Foot
Sometimes connection starts with a simple walk.
Organized city walking groups and psychogeography tours help you chat fluently and see London differently.
You meet people while moving along city paths, sharing stories organically—not over overpriced coffee.
6. Cultural Meetups & Community Hubs
London LGBTQ+ Community Centre supports meetups, workshops, and social nights in a welcoming environment.
Fun Palaces (early October annually) invite you to volunteer or host pop-up arts and science events in your neighborhood.
These are safe, inclusive, and grounded in connection through shared experiences.
7. Don’t Just Join—Show Up Regularly
A theme you’ll hear again and again: show up consistently. Attend weekly games, classes, or coworking events. It’s repeated visibility that shifts a stranger to companion.
8. Quick Action Plan to Turn Solo into Social
Pick one interest and find a Meetup group or local class.
Join the Friends in London or a local “Like-Minded” Meetup.
Try a free supper club, paint night, or community arts event.
Join Run Dem Crew or a casual fitness group.
Try walking meetups to explore the city and spark conversations.
Consistency over intensity: attend regularly.
Be open—even a simple compliment or a “hello” can start a friendship.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're new to London or finding yourself without a crew, the key is showing up. From paint nights to running groups, supper clubs to cultural hubs—any one of these spaces can transform your solo routine into real friendships.
Ready to make London feel smaller—and friendlier? Save this guide, pick one meetup tonight, and tag a friend (or future friend) at your first one. For more insider social maps to the city, follow @Londonyaar—your link to real London living.