How to make friends while learning English in London
Moving to a new city like London is exciting, especially when you’re learning English and exploring its rich culture. However, settling into a new environment can feel a little overwhelming—especially when it comes to making friends. But don’t worry! London is a vibrant, diverse city full of opportunities to meet people and build meaningful connections. Here are some practical tips for making friends while improving your English.
- Join your English school community
Your English school is one of the best places to start building friendships. At Time4London, we believe that learning happens both inside and outside the classroom. Here’s how you can connect with your peers:
- Participate in Social Events: We host events like group outings to galleries, museums, markets and parks.
- Engage During Breaks: Use breaks between classes to chat with classmates about their cultures and experiences.
- Study Groups: Form small groups to practice your English. It’s a great way to help each other while building bonds.
- Attend language exchange events
Language exchanges are fantastic for improving your English while meeting locals and other learners. These events usually pair people who are fluent in different languages to help each other practice.
- How to Find Events: Websites like Meetup, Facebook groups, or apps like Tandem often list language exchange events happening across London.
- Popular Spots: Look for meetups in trendy neighborhoods like Shoreditch, Camden, or Notting Hill.
- What to Expect: Friendly, relaxed environments where you can practice English and share your native language.
- Explore hobby and interest groups
London has a group for nearly every interest imaginable, from cooking classes to book clubs to sports teams. Joining a group that aligns with your hobbies is a fun and easy way to meet people with similar passions.
- Examples of Groups:
- Dance classes at Pineapple Studios in Covent Garden.
- A football team for beginners.
- Creative writing workshops or art clubs.
- How to Get Started: Browse Meetup, Eventbrite, or noticeboards in community centers.
- Volunteer for a cause
Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back to the community while meeting new people. London offers many opportunities to help out:
- Food Banks and Homeless Shelters: Organizations like The Felix Project always need volunteers.
- Community Gardens: Places like Culpeper Garden in Islington welcome volunteers to help with gardening.
- Events and Festivals: Volunteer at cultural or music festivals and interact with like-minded people.
- Say yes to social invitations
When someone invites you to an event, lunch, or a casual gathering, try to say yes, even if it feels a bit outside your comfort zone. Socializing in a new language can be challenging, but every effort builds your confidence.
- Explore London with friends in mind
London’s lively culture and endless activities make it easy to meet people just by stepping out and exploring. Here are some ideas:
- Visit Markets: Chat with vendors and visitors at Borough Market or Portobello Road Market.
- Take Tours: Join a free walking tour or museum group for a shared experience.
- Attend Events: Check out open mic nights, pub quizzes, or art exhibitions.
- Use social apps to connect
There are many apps designed to help people meet others in new cities. Some of the most popular for making friends in London include:
- Bumble BFF: For finding friends in your area.
- Meetup: To join interest-based groups and events.
- Tandem: A language exchange app where you can practice English with a partner.
- Be patient and stay open
Building friendships takes time, but it’s worth the effort. Be open to meeting people from all backgrounds and cultures—it’s one of the perks of being in a global city like London.
Final thoughts
Making friends while learning English in London is not just possible; it can also be one of the most enriching parts of your experience. From joining your school’s community to attending language exchanges and hobby groups, there are countless ways to connect with others.
At Time4London, we’re not just about teaching English; we’re about creating a supportive, inclusive environment where you can thrive academically and socially. Join us today and start building connections that last a lifetime!
