Solo travel from the UK isn’t just a passing trend—it’s become a defining feature of the modern holiday landscape. Over the last year, the solo travel scene has evolved rapidly, shaped by shifting priorities, a hunger for freedom, and a desire for personal experiences that go far beyond the ordinary.
The numbers tell a compelling story. In 2024, solo travellers accounted for nearly one in five global tourism bookings, and the UK was right at the heart of this shift. The solo travel market here generated an impressive £35.3 million last year, with projections suggesting this figure could double within the next five years. What’s even more striking is the sheer appetite for adventure among UK soloists: nearly a quarter of Brits now say they plan to travel alone in 2025, and more than half are considering not just one, but several solo trips in the coming year.
So what kinds of holidays are these intrepid travellers choosing? The city break is having a major moment. Over the past twelve months, more than three in ten solo trips from the UK were to cities, both at home and across Europe. From the culture and culinary buzz of London and Edinburgh to the timeless romance of Paris and the vibrant streets of Barcelona, solo travellers are drawn to places where they can lose themselves in museums, markets, and neighbourhood cafés—often with nothing but a good book and a sense of curiosity for company.
But the pull of Europe goes further. Short-haul escapes to sun-drenched coastlines and historic towns remain as popular as ever. Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Greece are top picks for solo Brits looking for a blend of relaxation, adventure, and solo-friendly accommodation. These destinations offer the kind of easy travel and welcoming atmosphere that make going it alone feel not just safe, but truly special.
What’s particularly interesting is how far solo travellers are now willing to roam. The latest travel data shows that UK residents took over 25 million trips overseas in 2024—a jump of nearly two million from the year before. More and more, solo explorers are venturing beyond Europe, seeking out the temples of Thailand, the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, or the national parks of the USA. For many, the motivation is a mix of personal growth, a desire to experience the world on their own terms, and the simple thrill of stepping outside their comfort zone.
Who are these solo travellers? While the community is more diverse than ever, there are some clear patterns emerging. The majority are under forty, with a significant cluster in their twenties and thirties, but there’s also a noticeable rise in solo travel among those over fifty—especially women, who now represent a growing share of the market. Urban hubs like London, Manchester, and Glasgow are leading the way, but the solo spirit is spreading, with more people from smaller towns and rural areas packing their bags for solo adventures.
Why now? The reasons vary, but the common thread is a craving for flexibility and self-discovery. Many solo travellers say they love the freedom to set their own schedule, to linger in a gallery or café as long as they like, or to join a group tour one day and explore independently the next. The travel industry has responded in kind, with more solo-friendly hotels, wellness retreats, and group experiences designed to make independent travellers feel both welcome and secure.
Looking ahead, the solo travel wave shows no signs of slowing. With more than a third of solo travellers planning multiple trips in 2025, it’s clear that travelling alone is no longer a bold exception—it’s becoming the new normal for a growing number of Brits. Whether it’s a quick city break, a European escape, or a once-in-a-lifetime journey to the other side of the world, solo travel is set to remain at the heart of the UK holiday story for years to come.
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