Coined the Monday of all the seasons, January doesn’t exactly have the best reputation. However, with the new year comes a chance to reinvent yourself and pick up healthier habits. For this reason, many people decide to participate in Dry January: an entire month without alcohol.
But Dry January doesn’t have to be boring; there are many ways to socialise with friends, family and colleagues besides drinking. With plenty of fun things to do in January, London is the best place to spend an alcohol-free day.
What is Dry January?
Dry January is a personal challenge not to drink alcohol for an entire month. After the Christmas festivities, you may want a break from alcohol. Or perhaps you’re not a big drinker, and you’re curious to see what it feels like to cut it out completely.
Some people do dry January as part of a fundraiser, while others keep it to themselves. Whatever your motive, there are plenty of alcohol-free attractions in London to try out this January!
Ready to get inspired? Here are the best non-drinking activities to do in London this Dry January, which are easy reach using public transport.
Railway Arch 198 rear of 85, Bellenden Rd, London SE15 4QJ
Fire up your creativity and try your hand at ceramics at The Kiln Rooms in Peckham. Consisting of three spacious studios, this crafting area offers state-of-the-art equipment for members of any ability, allowing you to hone your skills. You’ll be taught everything from throwing on the wheel and hand building to mould work and decorating. From evening and weekend courses to drop-in sessions, there’s plenty to keep you busy this January.
How to get there: From Clapham Junction, take the overground to Peckham Rye, then walk for four minutes.
If woodwork, upholstery and DIY are your things, then you’ll love the classes at The Goodlife Centre. There are plenty of workshops to join in January: from woodwork, to furniture restoration classes, or get stuck into making your own soap and shampoo.
How to get there: The Goodlife Centre is a 20-minute walk from London Waterloo, or you can get there using the eastbound Jubilee tube. Get off at Southwark station and then walk for around 10 minutes.
If you can’t commit to a membership or weekly classes, then Battersea Pottery Café is a great option. Snack on delicious cakes and cookies in the café as you paint your pottery, which the staff will then glaze and fire for you. Kids and adults are welcome here, so why not make it a family day out?
How to get there: Catch the train to Clapham Junction and enjoy a 15-minute stroll through Battersea to reach the café.
Pizza making classes at Pizza Pilgrims, West India Quay
The best thing about the pizza-making classes at Pizza Pilgrims is that you get to eat the finished product! Perfect for parties or large families, this event is private hire only, so you’ll get the full attention of the pizzaioli as you cook up a storm. Learn everything from pizza-throwing to seasoning, then enjoy the taste of your creation.
How to get there: From London Waterloo, Pizza Pilgrims is just a tube ride away. Take the eastbound Jubilee line, get off at Canary Wharf and then walk for 12 minutes.
Paddington Academy, 50 Marylands Rd, London W9 2DR
If you’ve always admired the rhythm of Latin dancing and want to give it a go, then head to Caramelo Latin Dance Academy. The fun is guaranteed as you try your hand at Salsa, Bachata and the Cha Cha Cha. Classes are available for all abilities; choose between 4-week structured courses, intensive weekend workshops, monthly Saturday socials and more.
How to get there: Caramelo Latin Dance Academy is a quick tube journey away from London Waterloo. Catch the Bakerloo line to Warwick Avenue, then walk for 11minutes.
Inspired by traditional Nepalese practices, the Sound Healing Workshop at Tantra Sound Club is a truly blissful experience. There’s a community feel to this workshop taking place in a small, intimate theatre. Every Thursday evening, participants gather to meditate and immerse themselves in sound to achieve the ultimate Zen feeling.
How to get there: From London Waterloo, catch the northbound Northern tube to Warren Street.
Round up your friends and family and pay a visit to Sixes Cricket, an indoor cricket ground in Fitzrovia. Welcoming all ages and abilities, it’s traditional cricket re-imagined with top-of-the-range sports technology. When the final whistle is blown, head to the on-site restaurant and tuck into a delicious sharing platter.
How to get there: Hop on the northbound Bakerloo tube from London Waterloo and get off at Regent’s Park. It’s then just a seven-minute walk to Sixes Cricket.
The best way to beat the January blues is by getting out in nature – and Regent’s Park has over 395 acres of lush greenery for you to explore. Enjoy the variety of activities on offer, from the Open-Air Theatre to London Zoo, or simply stroll through the gardens and take it all in.
How to get there: From London Waterloo, catch the northbound Bakerloo tube and get off at Regent’s Park.
Take a free walking tour of London
London’s walking tours run all year round, and many are free – perfect for a tighter January budget. If you’re visiting for the first time, then a London Essentials tour is a great place to start, covering all the main sights and attractions. For the more experienced Londoner, why not try one of the TV and Movie tours?
Hop on a Thames cruise
City Cruises allow you to explore London's riverside from the water
For a unique way to see London’s sights, climb on board a Thames River Cruise. Hop-on/hop-off cruises allow you to board and disembark at Westminster, London Eye, Greenwich and Tower Piers throughout the day, so you can see the sights at your leisure. Save 7% on City Cruises’ 24-Hour Hop-On/Hop-Off Thames Sightseeing Cruise with SWR Rewards.
How to get there: The London Eye pier is a five-minute stroll from London Waterloo.
With so much to see and do in London this Dry January, why not plan your journey today? Explore our flexible range of ticket types to find cheap train tickets for your chosen activity. Plus, you can enjoy additional savings with a Railcard or GroupSave. If you’re travelling with a bicycle, make the most of our bike-friendly services and plan your journey in advance to avoid disappointment.
From events and services to activities and concerts, there are plenty of great Remembrance Day events in London. Read our guide. Plan your travel with SWR.
Whether you’re into tennis or yoga, nothing clears the mind like fresh air and exercise! Read our list of the best outdoor activities to boost your mood here.
From beautiful beaches, the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, Pride events, food and music festivals and much more, see the best things to do in July on the SWR network.
From music festivals and the Chelsea Flower Show, to free outdoor activities like scenic bike rides, wildflower wandering and more, here’s what’s on in May in London and the South West.
From International Women’s Day, Mother’s Day, and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations to spring flower walks and more, here’s your guide to what’s on in March in London and the South West.
The Best Breweries and Microbreweries in the South West
Whether you’re a long-time craft beer fan or looking to discover your new favourite brew, we’ve rounded up the top South West breweries you can visit.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in the South West During Half Term
Whether you’re looking for rainy-day activities, budget-friendly fun or want to get out in nature, get inspired with our guide to the top half-term events the South West offers.
Discover the best trips for solo travellers in South West England. From beaches and city breaks to top locations for history buffs, SWR has your trip covered.
Discover Christmas at Battersea Power Station! Enjoy holiday lights, markets, ice skating, dining, and more at London’s festive riverside destination.
Top Christmas shopping spots in London and the South West
Shopping at Christmas can be a magical experience with festive lights and dazzling window displays at the top spots. Read our guide here. Travel with South Western Railway.
Whether you want to visit real TV and movie sets, take a studio tour or plan an action-packed day walking in the steps of your favourite characters, we have you covered.
Looking for things to do in London this autumn? Don’t miss London Cocktail Week! Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or hoping to discover your new favourite tipple, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in the South West
Embracing a plant-based diet? Travel with SWR and explore the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants that the South West has to offer. Read our guide here.
Discover the UK's grandest stately homes, just like those featured in Bridgerton. Explore South Western Railway's in-depth analysis of top estates, ranked by reviews, search volumes, TV appearances, and more.
From cheese rolling to bog snorkelling, explore the wild and wonderful unique sporting events the UK has to offer, including those hidden gems in the South West.
Ready to learn about the wacky and the weird? Our list of quirky London museums covers everything from Freud to fans! Get there with South Western Railway.
Ready to challenge yourself? There are so many great events happening every year, so we’ve compiled a list of the best half marathons in the South West here.
6 super romantic London restaurants that will steal your heart this Valentine’s Day
Looking to raise the bar this Valentine’s Day? Here before you are six restaurant recommendations guaranteed to give your dinner date the wow-factor it deserves.
Live your best life in 2024 with these super fun London activities
Unlock the door to an unforgettable experience in London and discover a plethora of exciting activities that will make your 2024 an unforgettable year.
6 festive foods in London you need to try this Christmas
If you're in London during the Christmas season, make sure to indulge in the festive cuisine the city has to offer. Here's a list of six delectable foods that are a must-try during the holiday season.
5 Things To Do In London That Are A Little Bit Different
Whether it’s learning a new skill or simply experiencing London from a new perspective, these quirky activities are a great way to expand your horizons.
The best Christmas markets in London and the south west
Christmas markets are coming to town! From mulled wine and mince pies, to antique treasures, dazzling lights and more, London and the South West’s markets are bound to impress this festive season.
What’s on in November in London and the South West
From Diwali celebrations and Remembrance day events, to Christmas markets, Bonfire Night and much more, here’s what’s on in November in London and the South West.
Live your best independent life in London with these solo activities
Spending time alone shouldn’t just be used for life admin - with these fun solo London activities you’ll be well on your way to becoming your own bestie.
12 Cool And Quirky London Instagrammable Spots That’ll Jazz Up Your Feed
Explore 12 unique and Instagram-worthy locations in London with South Western Railway. These spots are guaranteed to add a cool and quirky touch to your social media feed.
From exploring the rich cultural heritage of the city to enjoying its vibrant nightlife, here are six activities that you can participate in to make the most of your London adventure.
Here’s how you can spice up your weeknights in the city
If you're seeking to add a dash of excitement to your weeknights in the bustling city, there are several options to consider. Here are a few ideas that may pique your interest and make your evenings more memorable.
Looking for some romantic ideas for your next outing in London in 2023? Here are eight delightful date ideas that will make your time in the city unforgettable.
6 Excellent Cultural Activities To Enjoy In London Right Now
London is currently offering a plethora of exceptional cultural activities for you to indulge in. There are six noteworthy options that stand out, each with its own unique charm.
9 London wellbeing practices that will benefit your mind, body and soul
Whether it's roaming through the treetops or taking a soothing sound bath, there’s so many fun and fulfilling ways to look after your wellbeing in London.
From coastlines to woodlands, the South West is one of the best places to get married in the UK. With our list, might find the wedding venue of your dreams!
Ready for some retail therapy? London has some of the best shopping centres and high streets for you to explore! Check out our list here. Get there with SWR.
From stunning bike routes, kid-friendly activities, scenic gardens, beautiful coastlines, and more, here are our top budget-friendly April days out recommendations
.png?w=20&h=20&hash=F30E372235F20F59CCF1EBCF7A77FAEA)
.png?w=20&h=20&hash=C3087DBE7E0B4B98535F78245786B959)
.png?w=20&h=20&hash=C3C8A0B96B7D8B62564734CE8DF0B0B8)
.png?w=20&h=20&hash=A90EF0B806BF871440AFD90390114A34)
.png?w=20&h=20&hash=6579468D79244EA2FEFA4F380673A153)
.png?w=20&h=20&hash=95C7078AC31A4E274539941C2DBF9A0A)
.png?w=20&h=20&hash=724F94F37B30688C93EE3E52826515FA)
