Digital Nomad in London: Your Essential Guide to Remote Working
Digital nomad and London resident, Ingrid Boucher, presents One Planet Journey’s readers with the essential guide to a successful nomad experience in the UK capital. She explains the concept, lists why London is an ideal spot for digital nomads, reveals the best coworking spaces, cafés, and neighbourhoods suitable for remote work. Practical, personal, and pertinent advice.
10 Reasons Why Being a Digital Nomad in London is Fantastic
London Neighbourhoods for Digital Nomads
In recent years, the rise of social media and omnipresent connectivity have popularised the digital nomad lifestyle. But beyond the buzzword, digital nomadism is a prime example of a deeper form of travel, allowing individuals a chance to immerse themselves in the culture of each place by being part of local, everyday life, benefitting both the individual and the country. For those unfamiliar with the term, perhaps associating it with constant wanderers in perpetual search for Wi-Fi wouldn’t be too far off. Let’s examine the terminology.
Digital Nomad Definition
Digital nomads travel all the while earning an income anywhere in the world, provided there is ample digital infrastructure. Though the expression itself took off in the 90s and onward, the first-ever “known” digital nomad was, in fact, Steven K. Roberts, who rode his computerised cycle across America in the 80s (Teknomadics, 2011).
Before COVID-19, being “on site” reflected the working norm that a marginal amount of people would question. During and post-lockdowns, the 9-5 office work model has come under attack, opening up possibilities for other ways to make a living. Thus came the rise of hybrid, remote work, and a renewed interest in transitioning to digital nomads. But I would caution on labels, because there is indeed a difference, which causes confusion.
Hybrid workers can, as per agreed with their company, move between the office and a remote setting (usually home) a few days a week. This offers flexibility and a better work-life balance. On the other hand, Remote workers have more say on where to locate themselves, whether from home, a café, a park, but with prior agreement on a fixed spot. Herein lies the contrast with digital nomadism, where the individual holds full travel and location control.
The Digital Nomad Visa
Traditionally, tourist visas were the go-to method for digital nomadism. Never there for too long, taxes didn’t pose too much of a worry and as a digital nomad, your working station wasn’t fixed. The “sky’s the limit” approach allowed for soaking in the culture, and being adaptable.
With COVID reducing the number of tourists, and an increase in the workforce going digital, countries saw an opportunity to diversify their visitor pool. In the past four years, digital nomad visa programs have sprung up in many places with Estonia pioneering the concept in 2014. The scheme allows remote working from a foreign country without the constraints of tourist visas. As of 2024, about 60 countries have launched a version of the program with differing layers of qualifications (minimum income, health insurance, length of stay).
For the UK where I am currently based, recent changes to the immigration law allow for remote working to be done while visiting as long as it is NOT the primary reason (GOV.UK, Dec 2023). There is no digital nomad visa, but you may remain in the country legally for up to 6 months with a valid passport that has at least half a year remaining before its expiration date.
In September, 2024 the UK government announced the new electronic travel authorisation (ETA) similar to the US’ ESTA visa waiver program. All visitors coming to the UK from 2025 and onwards will have to fill an online form at least 72 hours prior to arrival. It will cost £10 per application with a validity of a minimum 6 months to 2 years.
10 Reasons Why Being a Digital Nomad in London is Fantastic
London is one of the world’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities and despite high living costs, it offers countless advantages for digital nomads looking to combine work and travel. Here’s my top 10 for why you should give it a shot:
1. Global Hub for Business and Networking
As an international financial centre, London is HQ to some of the largest corporations and startups. Whether you’re a freelancer, an entrepreneur, or a remote worker for a multinational company, living in a city with such a concentration of businesses opens up opportunities for networking, collaboration, and career growth. Tech, finance, marketing, and creative industries make it a prime location for business-oriented digital nomads.
2. Efficient Transport Network
Who hasn’t heard of the iconic Tube? On top of that, London has extensive bus routes, an incredible number of rail networks, and dedicated cycling lanes constantly being built out. Getting around is convenient, also for walking enthusiasts.
3. A Wealth of Green Spaces
If you want to balance work and relaxation, London’s green lungs are world’s famous. From the sprawling Hyde Park to the peaceful Regent’s Park and Hampstead Heath, there are many places to unwind, enjoy nature, or even work outdoors on a sunny day.
4. Thriving Digital Nomad Community
London has a large, diverse, and growing pool of digital nomads and remote workers. Regular meetups, networking events, and coworking spaces offer numerous opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. Popular groups like Digital Nomads London create a supportive and vibrant community to share experiences and resources, or to find business partners.
5. Rich History and Cultural Extravaganza
London has deep historical roots. From icons such as the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace to world-renowned museums like the British Museum and the National Gallery, London offers endless opportunities to keep active in your downtime. Check out these curated itineraries based on food, culture, nature, and luxury for further inspiration.
6. Diverse Food and Population
On the topic of food, London’s population is a melting pot of cultures, which is reflected in the culinary scene. You can enjoy authentic cuisines from all over the world almost everywhere in the city. This diversity also makes it easy to meet people from different backgrounds, making London feel more like a global village.
7. World-Class Entertainment and Nightlife
Once business hours are over, and you want to paint the town red, London never runs out of things to do. From West End theatre shows and live music venues to vibrant pubs and nightclubs, everyone finds their passion. Indulge in festivals, street markets, and art exhibitions. Or visit the many fantastic book shops, for example Stanfords to get inspiration for new travel adventures.
8. English as a Universal Language
London is ideal for digital nomads who prefer to work and communicate in English. It’s easy to navigate the city, access services, and network with other professionals without a language barrier.
9. An Abundance of Coworking Spaces
London overflows with coworking spaces catering to the needs of digital nomads. From trendy, creative environments to more corporate settings, there’s something for everyone. Notable coworking spaces include:
- WeWork
- The Office Group (TOG)
- Huckletree
- Mindspace
- Impact Hub
10. Unbeatable Connectivity
London’s status as a major travel hub means you’re never far from the next destination. Airports for long haul destinations are aplenty, but the city is also well-connected by high-speed rail links to other cities in the UK and Europe. For example the Eurostar to Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels.
Tips for Remote-Working in London
London is my second home and we go way back. As someone who for years followed a traditional office lifestyle, I didn’t think much of where else I could work. And it hasn’t always been easy. So how has London become a remote-working champion?
Rewinding to a decade ago, the search for Wi-Fi, especially free, remained a quest, but as time passed, the scene changed. The neighbourhood of Islington in North London saw its first coworking space open in 2005 (source: Headspace Group) and since then Hot-desking or coworking spaces have spawned across the city. Today, for casual users, prices start from £25/day depending on the location and facilities. I sometimes check Hubble.com for spots available all over the capital.
And you never have to go too far. At times I forget, hotels/hostels and public areas also function as remote working locations. Though often for free, walk-ins may incur fees and some places notify that they have time limits for laptop carrying patrons. Grabbing a collation is a good solution. Hotels also have spaces you can easily book, such as the CitizenM chain (day passes from £20) or the Locke Living Apart Hotels who encourage nomads to take advantage of their partners’ amenities, for example cafés.
Libraries and Museums
Libraries, too, are easy options for remote work. The majority will have open Wi-Fi, power stations – and free memberships available for permanent residents. The most iconic of them all is the British Library near Euston (zone 1) and St Pancras Station. One of the largest in the world, it is a well-designed place built around its impressive entrance hall. There is something special about hearing the distant clicks of computers, pages being turned, and the chatter of the people coming in and out. It is a public space for all and they have enough seating for you to choose from.
Another spot I like, particularly for its interior and love for storytelling, is the museum and library Wellcome Collection. Located in the Euston neighbourhood, it is accessible from public transport, about a 7-minute walk either via Euston, Warren Street, or St Pancras. Entrance is free and should you need to use their library for any deeper research, you can register for a membership. Casually going in? Head to the Reading Room on the second floor. They have bean bags, a sitting area, and decent Wi-Fi. The pastel colour of the walls and the artworks complement the staircase and modern lighting pieces, giving it a sophisticated atmosphere somewhere between new and old.
London Neighbourhoods for Digital Nomads
For first timers, Central London, meaning Westminster, Soho, and Covent Garden, are popular choices. At times, they can feel overwhelming. But London is also a big city, with more neighbourhoods, all with their charm and quirks, cuisine from all over the world, cafés, shopping, and parks. Throughout the years, I always find myself going back to these:
Greenwich: About 40 minutes from central London by tube, Greenwich is most known for its park and observatory as well as the Maritime Museum. It is right by the river Thames and has a lovely village feel. I love to stop by the market to grab a coffee and Pastel de nata before heading to the park for some quiet time.
Angel & Islington: Vibrant, full of cafés and restaurants, and is a brilliant spot for locals. Directly off Angel Station (Northern Line) you have Camden Passage where you can find antique shops and one of my favourite Japanese tea rooms, Katsute 100.
Brixton: in London, everyone knows Brixton. It’s full of life, sometimes chaotic, but has some of the best Afro-Caribbean food. It has a local feel, which I adore and if heading there, Brixton Market is an institution where you can get your groceries and grab a bite before venturing off.
Kensington: By Kensington, I mean South and West. The Victoria & Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum are landmarks of London not to be missed. The latter is a personal recommendation and has a great Dinosaur gallery which I am very fond of. West Kensington isn’t so much for tourism rather than getting away from it. It is more residential, full of life, and attracts families wanting out of the hustle.
Laptop-friendly cafés for remote working in London
But, back to work. Are you cafés lovers? Because I certainly am.
After returning from Asia this year, I realised how much the coffee scene in London had boomed. From a quick spot around the corner to trendier concepts deeply influenced by Australia’s café style, working remote is a concept to which the coffee institution has warmed up to.
So, as a nomad and a coffee addict, I went on a hunt. With a multitude of spots in the capital, I believe it is wise to focus on a specific area. Here are my top 3 favourites in South London from the most central to further up the hill.
Hej – Elephant and Castle
Address: 53 Rodney Road Mansfield Point, London SE17 1BA England
Close to the centre of London, Hej is about 10 minutes from any of the nearby stations (train/tube). The first time I came in, the incredible smell of the coffee beans on roast hit me. Hej (meaning “hello” in Swedish) is a concept from Sweden with its small-batch roastery in London. From Monday to Friday, you get to work, surrounded by coffee as they roast all their beans on site. Hej operates a barista school and partners with organisations focused on five causes – which is always a plus for me – and they sell the blends they create as part of their wholesale business (a portion of what you pay goes to those causes).
The cafe is spacious and has an outside area for those sunny days. My recommendation? Upon entering, head to the right, where they roast the beans. The space is open so you can peek at the process regarding how coffee gets to your cup.
The Wi-Fi is fast and free to connect to and they have plugs in some parts of the café.
They offer a variety of coffee blends and sell coffee and equipment if you’d like to bring a bit of Hej home.
The Lodge Space – Yoga Centre and Cafe – Surrey Quays
Address: 120A Lower Road, London SE16 2UB England
I adore this café, which is part of a yoga and meditation centre. Away from the craziness of the city but still so close to it, they have made the space available for remote working and organise events throughout the year.
The outdoor patio has a calm and home-feel atmosphere, with plants surrounding the entire space. French doors connect the inside and outside, which they open if the weather gets warm.
Food & drinks include vegan and vegetarian options. It is simple and well-made. Their toasted focaccias are filling and crunchy, the salads come in decent sizes. Drink wise, I mostly go for their matcha which has the right amount of herbal feel.
The ambience is inviting, with candles and a soft patchouli scent in the background. The perfect mix of life between work discussions and leisure chit-chat.
Redemption Roasters – West Dulwich branch
Address: 29 Dulwich Village, London SE21 7BN England
Redemption Roasters’ mission keeps me coming back for more: offering opportunities and training for inmates to reduce re-offending in the UK. They roast their beans in prison (at time of writing) and employ about 20% of residents as their workforce. My first coffee at Redemption Roasters was at the West Dulwich branch, but they have 9 more to choose from if you are exploring other parts of London. So why do I pick this café in particular?
Weekends and sunny days bring more traffic but not as much as the central locations, so I am usually set for a while and it is a quiet space. Often I find cafés’ background music to be on the louder side, and I enjoy the quietness. The sitting area is sizeable, and besides, I’ve never seen the café full.
Internet connectivity is decent and they have a few plugs to charge your equipment.
The outdoor section at the front is a good spot for people watching should you need a break from your screen and they have a small backyard. For apartment dwellers, that’s a welcome addition.
I like the coffee, and the brand produces blends with an ethical mindset. I love a good americano and enjoy floral tones which are nice and refreshing during the summer.
Digital Nomadism: Delving deeper into a destination
Being a digital nomad comes with its perks in that you can discover the world, the real one. London may come across like a lonely and busy city from the sidelines, but by getting yourself outside the centre and wandering through side streets and away from the hubs, you will find there’s a world of possibilities. From coworking spaces to public Wi-Fi spots, the capital isn’t short on remote working solutions. While we imagine digital nomads in exotic places, never forget that the essence of digital nomadism is also about deep travel. It is about allowing yourself to immerse yourself in the culture wherever you are.
So when in London, don’t let the ever-changing weather fool you, and if you’re lucky, you may see me with my laptop in hand, drinking one too many americanos.
Have you tried the digital nomad lifestyle? What’s your favourite city for it? Let us know in the comment section! Subscribe to our newsletter and benefit from travel guides, sustainable tourism and luxury travel tips, insightful interviews, and inspirational places to visit. One Planet Journey – The World’s First Deep Travel Magazine.
