Things to do on Black Friday (other than shop)

Yes, there are places in London where you can actually get some peace and quiet. Kew Gardens is a pretty good go-to: all year round, it’s the perfect spot for a calming walk and some special alone time.

Gain some perspective on the scrapping masses by booking a spot on the London Eye. This South Bank attraction has been going strong since the year 2000, and still offers some of the best views of the city’s skyline when you’re at the top.

And those who want to indulge in a bit of kidult escapism should look no further than the semi-legendary ballpit extravanganza that is Ballie Ballerson: its new venue boasts a staggering million balls. 

If you want to avoid the violence of the checkouts, opt for the bullet-strewn catharsis of ‘Die Hard’ instead, which we’re screening at Lost Rivers Elephant as part of our Time Out Loves Christmas Movies season. 

London’s has plenty of top-notch ice rinks – what better way to escape from the BF crowds than to pull on some skates and go gliding serenely across the ice? And definitely not fall over. Definitely not.  

And if you fancy ice-skating to some thumping beats courtesy of ace DJs then book a slot at one of Somerset House’s late-evening Skate Nights. 

If in doubt, ditch the humans and surround yourself with lovely, fluffy, sweet little animals. (And some huge snarling ones with razor-sharp teeth, too, if you fancy a trip to the Land of the Lions.)

Lose yourself among the glass tanks and marine life of the Sea Life London Aquarium. The recently introduced jellyfish exhibition ‘Ocean Invaders’ is a real must-see. 

To our knowledge, they ain’t holding Black Friday sales in any of London’s theatres – it would spoil the whole illusion, right? And since we’re a city that’s full to the brim with excellent theatre, you should take a look through our list of shows, and get booking.  

If you need a break from the stores, then head to a restaurant for a quiet, calm, solo meal. No, you don’t look like you’re either 1) recently bereaved or 2) a social reject – it’s actually what all the cool people do. Take a look at our list of London’s best places to dine alone.