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TOP 100 New London Business Ideas for 2023

Nov 8, 2022

TOP 100 New London Business Ideas for 2022

In this article we will explore the most profitable and innovative London business ideas for 2023. These ideas will help you get started on your journey towards being an entrepreneur in one of the most vibrant cities in the world. London is one of the most important financial capitals in Europe, which means there are plenty of opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship as well as a huge talent pool that can be tapped into.

TOP 100 LONDON BUSINESS IDEAS FOR 2023

1. Virtual events management Virtual events are becoming more and more popular. There are not yet many companies that provide virtual event management services. And the demand for them is growing rapidly. There are many reasons why people and businesses would choose to have a virtual event instead of an on-site one. One of the most popular reasons is that it is cheaper to have a virtual event than an on-site one. Another reason could be that you want the event to be accessible for your participants no matter where they live or what time zone they live in, which can’t be done with an on-site event.

2. Organic beauty products In recent years, more and more consumers in the UK have been paying more attention to the quality of products and how they affect their health and the planet. For this reason, organic beauty products such as organic facial oils, organic body scrubs, organic tanning lotions, organic body wash, organic soap and organic make up products are increasingly in demand. It’s a niche business that is still relatively young and has very high potential for growth in the UK.

3. Pet food delivery service Pet food subscription, animal food catering, and organic pet food are new businesses gaining popularity in the UK. It’s a convenience for owners who thus don’t have to spend time buying food for their pets.

4. Personalised phone cases The trend for personalised phone cases has continued to grow in recent years, with customers looking for something that is unique to them. While this is primarily the domain of high-end brands, personalised phone cases can can also be a great idea for small and start-up brands.

5. Virtual reality therapy Virtual reality technology is being used in various industries, including healthcare for therapy and treatment purposes.  VR therapy, for example, allows exposure therapy to mimic any triggers, stressors that the patient has. In this way, the patient can gradually become accustomed to the stressors. Therapy using VR can also promote relaxation, strengthen the patient’s resilience, and teach the patient new positive behaviors and responses. These are just a few examples of how therapy with VR technology can work. There are many more possibilities, and demand for them is sure to grow.

6. Farm-to-table meal delivery The idea of farm to table food and meals has become increasingly popular in recent months. The idea is to eat locally grown and produced foods made in the UK (preferably made near London). By choosing such products, consumers are supporting local brands, as well as getting fresher, less chemical-laden food (which doesn’t have to be as preserved as, say, the same food produced in Asia or South America). A major advantage of farm to table food is also its climate friendliness. Such food does not have to be transported as far thanks to which less fuel is used.

7. Solar panel cleaning & maintenance services In recent years, solar panels have become very popular in London and throughout the UK. They require professional maintenance, service, cleaning, repair, and sometimes disposal, recycling, or transportation. These and other needs create a sacred opportunity for a profitable business.

8. Urban farming education, consulting & related services Urban farming is a new business niche gaining a lot of popularity. However, urban farmers need to acquire knowledge, buy necessary accessories (such as lamps, racks, irrigation systems or pots for urban farming), and some of them probably also need some services and consulting. This is a very forward-looking niche full of many opportunities. Another example of a business in this niche could be a store selling products, accessories and seeds for urban farmers.

9. Drone surveying Surveying with a drone is a new and very promising business that is already in high demand. Drone surveys are very useful in land surveys, 3D mapping, photogrammetry, and topographic surveying. Such drones equipped with the right sensors are also finding applications in many new fields. Companies offering such drone surveying services can certainly count on many customers today and in the future.

10. Portable pressure washing services Pressure washing is not only washing cars and sidewalks, but also sanitation, washing houses, roofs or commercial buildings. In order to be as successful as possible in this business, it is worth using a variety of marketing and advertising methods such as promotions and social media ads.

11. Renewable energy installation Many businesses and homeowners are interested in installing renewable energy sources. You can also offer maintenance and cleaning services for solar panels and wind turbines. Additionally, you can sell products related to storing renewable energy like batteries or accumulators.

12. Energy auditing & efficiency services If you’re looking for a profitable business idea, you may want to consider starting an energy auditing company. Not only can this business help homeowners reduce their energy bills, but it can also help businesses reduce their carbon footprint. In addition, energy auditing companies can help businesses improve the energy efficiency of their buildings.

13. Urban farming  A viable small business idea to start in London is urban farming. There are many types of urban farming to consider, the most profitable of which include microgreens farming, mushrooms farming, or auaponic farming, vertical farming or greenhouse farming. Agricultural products produced in this way are ideal for nearby restaurants, stores and individual customers (you can find them through social media, among other things!). Such a business lends itself well to scaling. You can even start it in the basement of your own home, or in your garden, and then gradually expand it (check out this inspiring story of urban farmers).

14. Organic agricultural products wholesale distribution Since organic food products have become increasingly popular, the demand for wholesale supplies of such organic products has also increased. Profitable products of this type are all kinds of organic food such as meats, seafood, beverages, grains, bee products, nuts and nut butters, fruit prodcuts and dried fruits or organic chocolate and syrups. Organic food is a branch of business that will grow strongly in the years to come, so this niche can be highly profitable.

15. Virtual assistant services With the increasing use of technology in business operations, virtual assistants are in demand for tasks such as scheduling appointments and managing social media accounts. The range of services that such virtual assistants can provide is very wide. It is especially profitable to provide highly specialized and professional services. 

16. One niche oriented co-working space rental Coworking space rental is a very good business idea in London. Many companies, freelancers and entrepreneurs, as well as artists and scientists need such spaces to maximize their potential. A good way to strike out with such business is to offer coworking space for specific sectors of business, art or science. Many people prefer to work among people in similar fields, so they can exchange valuable information and learn from each other.

17. Personal shopping services Many Britons care about looking attractive and fashionable. A great way to improve your appearance is to shop with the help of personal shoppers. Such services can be provided directly and also over the Internet (e.g., in the form of video chats and also uploading photos of videos and advice). This business has especially great potential in the age of VR and the Internet. Innovative offers and attractive advertisements will be very useful for success in this business.

18. Business coaching London is full of young people who want to achieve success in business. Many of them would love to improve their business knowledge and can pay a lot for professional coaching. Such coaching can be offered both directly and remotely, e.g. through video calls, as well as using modern technologies such as VR (virtual reality).

19. Drone photography & videography services A business that is in growing demand in London and across the UK is professional drone photography and videography. Such footage is especially needed by business owners, advertising producers and has applications in many other fields. Examples of services that such a business can offer are luxury real estate photography & videos, event & festivals photo and film making or construction drone film making.

20. Organic private catering (certified & high quality) Organic, healthy and proven high quality food is a revolution bigger than many can imagine. Many people want to combine health with convenience, so a very profitable and forward-thinking business idea in London is to offer organic healthy food catering and also services such as organic food boxes subscription.

21. Compostable packaging design & manufacturing Plastic packaging is a real problem in the modern world. Many companies want to use planet-friendly packaging, but there are still not many companies on the market that offer professional services of this type. A great idea for such a business can be a company that offers customizable packaging made of ecological and biodegradable materials. Such packaging is needed in different versions and must have different strengths and be adapted to different conditions, including those such as moisture or heat.

22. Mobile hair styling services Londoners love to look good and take care of their hair. Many don’t have time to go to a salon so a great solution to this problem can be a mobile hairdresser and mobile hair styling services. This will give the customer beautiful hair when and where it is most convenient. To maximize the success of such a business, it is a good idea to advertise such a business well on social media, local press and Google Ads.

23. Advanced vending machines Such machines are very profitable and future-oriented business ideas for London with great potential. Examples of such machines include ones serving hot food (like soups, pizza or burgers), as well as phone accessories, sweets, or  ice cream. A very good business idea can be healthy and organic food vending machine. If such a business seems interesting to you be sure to read this article in which we have collected 75 interesting vending machine business ideas. 

24. Professional decluttering services Many Britons have a problem with too much junk and unnecessary items in the house. For many people, it’s also difficult to deal with such junk when moving house. The answer to these problems is professional decluttering and organizational services that make it easier to clear your home of unnecessary items. Yes decluttering company can also offer organization and management services for your home or office or business, for example, take care of cleaning, air conditioning repair or renovation.

25. High-end home cleaning services Many wealthy Londoners need help with house cleaning, cooking or childcare, but they require truly professional and trustworthy people who will do it. The answer to such needs is a high-end home cleaning company that will offer the highest quality, handle precious items in the right way and, most importantly, offer 100% security and discretion so that the homeowner does not have to worry about their safety, privacy and expensive items.

26. Smart homes development Whether you’re an IT specialist or want to start your own smart home company, there are many reasons to pursue a career in smart home technologies. The first benefit is the potential to become an important part of a rapidly growing industry. Smart homes can provide a lot of benefits to the homeowners and can help businesses minimize their costs and waste. In addition, more and more new advanced technologies used in smart homes are being developed every year, so demand for this type of service will increase.

27. Mobile dry cleaners Mobile dry cleaning services are a great way to save customers time and make it easier for them to clean their clothes carpets and other fabrics. A great way to entice more customers, for example, is to offer free pick up & delivery for orders over $100.

28.  Subscription boxes The subscription business model is on the rise, with more consumers wanting convenient and personalized purchasing experiences. Businesses in various industries can capitalize on this trend by offering subscription box services.

29. Open a start-up hub Such start-up hub can support small businesses and entrepreneurs with various programs, workshops, and collaborative spaces. Think of it as the revolutionizing incubator for London’s next generation of tech entrepreneurs.

30. Artificial Intelligence services & software  This is a huge niche that is already finding its way into many types of business. Lucrative examples of such types of business are:  AI in recruitment; AI in customer service; AI in customer acquisition; AI in ecommerce; AI in customer retention; AI in marketing automation; AI in seo; AI in ppc campaigns; AI in crm; AI in customer feedback and reviews.

31. Energy efficiency consulting Energy efficiency consulting is a new very fast-growing business sector that is sure to play an increasingly important role in the future. Saving energy and reducing energy costs is something that most businesses and organizations as well as many individuals care about. Services related to energy efficiency inspection can also be energy measurement & verification; energy audits; energy efficient building construction and construction or energy & daylight modeling.

32. Home-brewing kits The popularity of home-brewing has increased in recent years, with the trend being driven by a desire for artisan quality beers with a variety of flavours. Craft beers are now available from a wide range of suppliers, but many people are still making their own at home to save money or brew unusual styles.

33. Electric vehicle charging station installation EV charging stations are a new niche in the business that has been growing very rapidly in recent years. Such stations require installation and, as they are used, maintenance and repair services as well. EV charging stations also provide a good opportunity to sell products that can be sold, for example, in vending machines standing next to such stations.

34. Property management & maintenance services London’s housing market is one of the largest of its kind in the world. With a population of about 9 million, London needs and uses a huge amount of housing and needs many related services such as maintenance, housing search, matching, finding clients, tenants and also renovations refurbishments or furnishing. The use of the latest technology, innovation and trends such as micro-apartments is the key to success in this field.

35. Virtual property management & services Britons are owning an increasing number of virtual properties and many of them require management, care, audits and advice. Examples of such services include taking care of someone’s account in an online game during his vacation and in other fields of gaming industry, as well as in online trading, online business management, metaverse property management, NFT related services and many more.

36. Niche online store Choosing a good niche is the key to success in any business! This is also the case for online stores with a very narrow, specialized and yet rich profile of products in a particular field. Think about what niches don’t yet have professional online stores in the UK, perhaps niches such as breeding rare species of animals, collecting specific products, or accessories for the latest technological innovations are areas in which you can succeed?

37. Market research & surveys agency Real, reliable information is at a premium. Many companies and organizations, and sometimes individuals, sometimes need such research, for example, to understand given market mechanisms, for investment purposes, or for scientific purposes. To make a name for yourself in this niche, you can start with specializing in one particular type of market research.

38. Custom product boxes & packaging More and more companies selling products want to offer them in unique and brand-specific boxes or packaging. The demand for this type of service is really high and will most likely grow intensively in the coming years. In order to stand out in this niche, it is worth offering attractive innovative and convenient tools and features for the customer, such as the ability to view packaging designs and designs online, or using VR.

39. VR testing services  VR testing services is the next big niche in the business that will grow intensively and is already starting to become popular. Examples of such VR testing services include clothing try on apps, 3D real estate or hotel virtual tours. Testing in VR can also be very useful in architecture, space business, urban planning and construction. It can be a great business to both offer services for such product testing, and to design such applications and programs that allow such VR testing to be as convenient as possible.

40. Cybersecurity agency  Cyber security is becoming an increasingly important security sphere of strategic importance in the 21st century. More and more small businesses as well as individuals need such professional services and consulting. Examples of cost-effective cybersecurity sevrices include cybersecurity audits for private and business clients, cybersecurity education and the installation of cybersecurity protection software, and the development of professional cybersecurity strategies for companies and private clients.

41. Virtual coworking space Virtual coworking spaces provide similar benefits to regular offices, but their advantage is that you can work in them regardless of the location you are in. Such virtual coworking spaces often have virtual floorplans, kitchens and conference rooms so that by using such a place you can feel like you are in an office and meet people who will be working next to you. This is still a young niche in business that is expected to grow intensively in the coming years.

42. Cafeteria with robots-employees Robotization is one of the most important trends that are currently advancing in the economy. Robots can also be an interesting attraction and a unique element that will give a unique character to a business. An interesting idea for such a business in London could be a cafe with robot employees. Such an unusual form of cafe is sure to attract many customers. Another idea could be a bar or restaurant in which customers will be served by robots.

43. Digital schools & professional virtual education While there are already many online education apps and programs out there, this niche still has many business opportunities ahead of it. Examples of such profitable education businesses include learning niche skills online , niche schools, learning using VR technology (e.g. a metaverse school where students participate in VR lessons and lectures), or customizable online schools where the student can choose exactly what they want to learn.

44. Import / export business Importing goods that are scarce in the UK market, or exporting products from the UK to countries with little or no such products, is a very profitable business that allows one to make a huge amount of money. The key to success is to find the right niche of products, and manufacturers who will provide specific products at attractive prices.

45. Healthy & organic fast food With the increase in socioeconomic status, people are becoming more health-conscious and more interested in sustainable practices. In fact, organic products have become a trend for middle and upper socioeconomic groups, who are interested in sustainable and healthy lifestyle. The demand for organic foods is expected to continue to grow in the future, that’s why healthy and organic fast foods once invented are very likely to become super profitable. 

46. Monitoring gadgets & robots for the elderly Many seniors need care, some of them need someone to watch over them even 24 hours a day. It can be very difficult and expensive (if a human is to do it), so advanced gadgets and robots for monitoring and contact with seniors can be a big help here. Such robots can remind seniors when to take drugs or when to eat. Such robots or gadgets can also monitor the behavior of the elderly, their safety and health (using appropriate cameras and sensors).

47. Home care services for the elderly & disabled people The UK population is getting older and people are living statistically longer, so various elderly care services are in high demand. Likewise for care and services for people with disabilities. Many such elderly or disabled people need assistance or care in their own homes (where they feel more comfortable than in a retirement home, for example). Such professional services tailored to clients’ needs in their homes is a great business idea that can bring in very high profits.

48. Genetic testing Genetic testing has become very popular in recent years and is a very forward-thinking and profitable niche in UK business. Many people want to better understand their ancestry, test and understand their genes, or understand what genetic diseases they may be susceptible to, so that they can take care of their health in time. Genetic testing can also have broad applications in many other niches, including animals. Profitable businesses in this field include not only offering such tests, but genetic consulting, genetic auditing with personalized advice, genetic dietetics or professional ancestry testing services.

49. 3D printing 3D printing has become very popular in the UK, but there is still a mass of business opportunities in the field, especially in London and other major cities. 3D printing on demand with shipping, 3D printing along with 3D scanning, and 3D printing linked to the metaverse, VR and artificial intelligence are other niches that have huge potential ahead. 3D printing technology continues to develop rapidly and, combined with other new 3D technologies, is creating more and more profitable business opportunities.

50. 3D scanning & modelling 3D scanning and modeling are other very forward-thinking business ideas that are already in high demand. Such scanning has applications not only in industry and manufacturing, but also in games, animation or movies. Such scanning can also play a very important role in the metaverse, NFT and in many new technologies.

51. Custom scent creation A business that works with clients to create unique, personalized scents for perfumes, candles, and other products. Such fragrances can be particularly atraytic for various businesses where customers come in such as stores and hotels.

52. Virtual home staging This business idea boils down to using virtual reality technology in order to help clients stage their homes for potential buyers without actually moving furniture. A good idea for such a business can be both the creation and sale of software for such virtual home staging and home staging services performed using such software (e.g. using VR).

53. Metaverse marketing agency It is already apparent that the metaverse is becoming a huge market that will play a tremendous role for humanity in the future. The metaverse , while attracting millions of users, will also become a natural place for business and advertising to be displayed and shown in the metaverse in a unique way, and advertising rights in the metaverse will probably be less regulated and more free at first. Ideas for such a business could be an advertising agency displaying ads in the virtual world of the metaverse, as well as various forms of advertising and selling goods and services in the metaverse aimed at individual customers. These are just a few of the possibilities, and there are a whole lot of them.

54. Go direct to consumer products Many original and unique products are characterized by availability only in certain places or in a few stores. Such products are often rarities that customers would be willing to really pay a lot for, but they can’t buy them at their local supermarket, grocery stores or local market. The solution to this problem is a go-direct-to-consumer business that delivers customers their favorite products even from remote locations. Examples of such products include e.g. : crabs from Alaska for consumers in Mississippi or Swiss cheeses for consumers in the UK.

55. Boat tourism Both the Thames and the North Sea offer great potential for boat tourism. Tourist cruises, photo expeditions, organizing parties and events on boats, as well as renting such boats with a helmsman can be a great business idea. It’s important to properly advertise such a business and use certain marketing tricks to make sure as many customers as possible hear about such a business.

56. Fishing charter & fishing boat trips An interesting business idea in London, as well as in other areas of the UK, is to organize fishing expeditions and various activities for beginners and advanced anglers. From training and educational cruises, to professional sea fishing expeditions for experienced fishermen. Such attractions can be ideally combined with tourism, and it is worth promoting them by working with hotels and also by advertising on social media.

57. Rich people daily life outsourcing  Another interesting idea for business in London is to offer specialized assistance and outsourcing services for rich people and VIPs who need, for example, someone to do their shopping for them, wash their car, mow their lawn or perform some other task. Wealthy Londoners need professional and trustworthy associates, so if you are able to gain the trust of such clients and offer them the highest possible level of professionalism, you will be able to make some really big money.

58. Advanced tools & machines rental The UK economy is full of businesses and people who need to rent various types of machinery and tools. A good example in the case of some advanced and expensive machines might be to offer to rent such machines with service. Examples of such machines include vending machines, various types of office machines such as scanners and photocopiers, coffee machines, as well as all kinds of industrial machines. The list of such rental machines is really long and creates great opportunities for a profitable business in London.

59. Ethical hacking business  As hacking attacks are becoming a threat to many companies, and to many people’s capital, numerous companies are able to pay more and more for ethical hacking services and for security testing of their secure systems. It’s a great business idea for British IT talents and programmers who like challenges and are familiar with IT security systems.

60. Podcasting Podcasting is a particularly good idea for London and UK residents. Good and professional English speaking skills are the basis for running a successful podcast that will gain many audiences around the world. English native speakers already speak fluent English, so as long as they have an idea for a creative podcast, it’s worth a try.

61. Skincare & anti-aging services on demand UK residents are statistically living longer and longer, which is associated with a growing population of elderly and old people. Many older people, especially women want to look young and beautiful. Such people are able to pay really a lot for effective skin rejuvenation improving appearance and professional rejuvenation. There are already a lot of such offerings on the market, but there is still a lot of space for new businesses using innovative methods. Such a business could be, for example, offering such rejuvenation services and treatments with home delivery, or at another place tailored to the customer.

62. Robots store Having a robot store is a lucrative business idea, especially if you are targeting children. These robotic toys not only make kids happy but also help them develop advanced skills. These businesses are suitable for areas where there are a large number of children. One example of a successful business in this sector is the retailing of Nao humanoid robots. These robots were developed by the French company Aldebaran Robotics and are widely used in hospitals. They have been programmed to perform tasks such as face detection and speech recognition.

63. Metaverse conferences hosting Organizing and hosting metaverse conferences is a business opportunity that is growing in popularity. This type of conference draws participants from all over the world, allowing you to reach a wide audience and help industries evolve. While this type of event is a bit expensive, you should know that it will be more cost effective over time as VR technology becomes more prevalent. Additionally, this type of event is unique, giving you an edge over your competitors later on.

64. Agritourism & ecotourism business Many Londoners need a break from city life or work, or want to show their children what a peaceful rural and natural life looks like. A great way to do this is to take advantage of agritourism or ecotourism services. Such businesses can offer customers contact with rural animals, the opportunity to try rural work, accommodation in the countryside or in attractive natural locations, and natural organic food (as well as natural preserves and rural meats). These are just some of the attractions that can be offered. To maximize the number of customers, it is worthwhile to properly advertise such a business online and on social media.

65. Drone piloting courses & education The growing popularity of drones is linked to the regulation of drone aviation law in the UK and the requirements to pass the appropriate tests to obtain a drone flyer or drone operator ID. As a result, flight and drone operator schools are becoming a great business idea. Consulting services for advising and building a business strategy for drone use by companies and individuals can also be a good business idea.

66. Halal food store or restaurant Halal food is increasingly popular in London. It’s a good business idea, especially in places where there are no such stores or restaurants yet. A wide range of products and professional customer service, as well as adequate advertising of such a business on the Internet are the basis for success.

67. African food store or bar Starting an African food store or bar can be a great business idea for those interested in promoting the rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine of Africa. Such a business can offer a diverse range of dishes that are popular in various African countries. To maximize profits consider including staple foods such as fufu, jollof rice, and stews, as well as unique dishes like suya and egusi soup.

68. Secondhand retail A great business idea in London is second hand retail. Londoners buy and also dispose of masses of items. Many such items have value and can be repurchased and then resold at a high profit. To succeed in such a business, it is advisable to start by specializing in one niche of such seconhand retail, achieve a high level of professionalism in it, and only then expand into other niches.

69. Online florist & flower and gift delivery Flower and gift delivery is an interesting business idea in London. Many people think about how to thank someone, surprise them or express love. Such flower and gift delivery is a great idea to do just that. In order to succeed with such a business, it is worth using the most innovative methods, offering the maximum good customer experience and also delivering gifts in such a way that the recipient of the gift feels as comfortable as possible.

70. Parking space or garage rental It’s often a hassle to find a good parking space in London, so businesses that facilitate parking and also rent and sell such spaces can make attractive profits and are in high demand.

71. Organic baby food business Parents pay a great deal of attention to their children’s health, so more and more parents are choosing organic healthy food for their children, even if the food costs more. As the health consciousness of consumers in the UK increases, so do the demands on organic baby food. A great business idea in this niche could be not only organic baby food brand, but also organic baby food stores and online stores, as well as organic baby food subscription services and catering.

72. Online content production There are a number of reasons why an online content production business is a good business idea. For one, people don’t need much initial capital to create content, so it might be relatively easy to start such business. The most successful content creators play the long game, and they have goals beyond just growing their audience. They create content that people follow, and they become “avatars” for specific ideas on the web. However, people can tell when someone is just hacking it, so they need to make sure they’re genuine about what they’re doing. To do this, you’ll need a good system and a good toolkit.

73. Aromatherapy business A small business based on aromatherapy can be a profitable venture. This type of business can offer many benefits to both the company and its customers. A formal marketing plan can help you develop a distribution and branding strategy. The plan should be tailored to the needs of your potential customers. You will want to identify your target market during the research phase.

74. Medicinal herbs store Herbs and natural medicine is an interesting field that attracts many customers. Many herbs have valuable health properties and selling them can be a very profitable business idea. To be successful in this niche, it is worth offering the highest quality products (such as organic herbs) and also professional customer service. Proper online marketing and social media advertising will be very useful.

75. Smart security systems installation  Security is one of the most important human needs. This is also the case for Londoners who are concerned about the security of their nearby homes and businesses. One of the best ways to ensure this is by installing professional home security systems and also offering security services.

76. Small business marketing services & consulting London is not only one of the largest cities in the world, but also one of the most important business centers of the world. A mass of small medium and large companies have their headquarters here, so it’s a real paradise for companies offering professional marketing services. If your marketing company is just starting out, it’s a good idea to focus on one or a few niches of marketing at first so as to gain recognition and become very professional in this one field. Then you can expand your offerings to other marketing services as well.

77. Start a dog clothing brand Dog clothing brand business can be profitable if done the right way. Setting up a business requires a professional approach, which is not easy if you’re just starting out. However, it’s possible to expand your business with a bit of hard work and a good sense of business. Getting started requires you to have the right skills and knowledge about the market and the locality, as well as follow the licensing laws and work with suppliers in a professional manner.

78. Organic pet food brand An Organic pet food brand can be a lucrative business to start and run. Pet owners are paying more and more attention to what their pets eat. You will need a marketing strategy and a license. It is a good idea to take advice from people who have experience in the food industry. To succeed, you should not settle for cheap or mediocre ingredients.

79. Mobile clinic  Mobile medical and health services is another of the more innovative and interesting London business ideas with great potential. People are becoming more and more concerned about their health, and at the same time becoming more and more convenient, so such a business has a good chance of success. Such a business could, for example, offer oxygen, CPR, medicine, doctor, nurse.

80. Online subscription services for home goods Every apartment in which a family, a group of friends, or even single people live needs certain fixed, repetitive goods that are used daily, weekly or every few weeks. To make life easier and save time, many such products can be subscribed to the home goods subscription business. Such services are already becoming popular, but will certainly become much more important in the future. Permanent subscription of recurring essential goods is also a great business idea aimed at businesses and organizations (such as schools or offices).

81. Stationary store with NFTs & metaverse products The NFT market is an interesting niche in business that is worth watching closely. There are many indications that NFTs will have more and more applications, which could make them a very profitable item for business, including for local bizzes, such as those offering or advising on how to buy select or sell such NFTs.

82. Video editing agency  There is a huge demand for professional video-editing services in London. Such services are needed by various companies, marketing agencies, influencers, as well as numerous individuals and organizations, among others.

83. Handmade crafts The demand for craft products is still high. They are ideally suited for gifts or home decorations. A particularly good idea for such a business is to sell craft products typical to various other countries (especially craft products in the style of those from distant and non-European countries can attract a lot of interest).

84. Membership clubs Another of the very forward-looking London business ideas are ubscription-based membership clubs, such as those offering exclusive deals or unique experiences. Such businesses are already becoming a popular business model.

85. Luxury pet products & services Many pet owners want the best for their pets and want to give them as good and special a life as possible. For this reason, luxury pet services such as luxury pet sitting for clients with high-end needs and preferences, as well as luxury pet clothes, ornaments, beds and toys, are becoming increasingly popular in the UK.

86. Personalized jewelry creation A popular business trend in recent years is the personalization of personal items such as jewelry. If you offer unique opportunities for such personalization, and a convenient and easy way to do it, you can be very successful. It is worth keeping innovation and new technologies (such as smart jewelry) in mind when doing this business.

87. UK-EU business legal services After Brexit, many businesses need legal assistance in doing business with European Union partners. Advanced legal services in this field, as well as advice, guidance and consulting, are services that are in high demand in London and throughout the UK. Such business advice and assistance can also manifest itself in the search for business partners in the European Union, business support, filing of documents and video consultations with business and legal specialists.

88. Mobile manicure & pedicure services Beautiful nails are something that many British women love. However, many ladies sometimes don’t have the time or inclination to go far to a beautician. An interesting solution to such a problem can be mobile manicure and pedicure services.

89. Smart jewelry (store or startup) Intelligent jewelry is a combination of beauty, prestige and cutting edge technology that makes life easier. Smart rings, necklaces and bracelets have become increasingly popular in recent years, but the market is still underdeveloped and full of numerous opportunities.

90. Minority store  Britain is full of various minorities. This creates an opportunity to create unique businesses with the profile of a particular minority, offering unique products or services that are hard to find in other salon stores or restaurants. Uniqueness is a very profitable trait in business, so such unique minorities can provide great inspiration for very profitable businesses.

91. Local grocery delivery service in your community (or other local delivery services) Many large stores offer product delivery and there is nothing special about it anymore. However, most small local stores still do not offer such services, so this is a great niche for a profitable business. All you need to do is organize a good network of professional and trustworthy shopping couriers and you can start such a business.

92. Small scale manufacturing Small scale manufacturing may be a good idea for a profitable business to start in London. It’s important to make a business plan and analyse the market and your competitors. There are a number of very profitable products to manufacture which can generate a lot of money. Examples of such products are: shoes, soap, scented candles, perfumes, cookies, home decorations, furniture, jewelry and many other items.

Read also: 200 Most Profitable Product Ideas to Make and Sell Easily

93. Niche products print on demand In recent years, one of the increasingly trending new business ideas is printing on demand on t-shirts, caps, mugs, pillows, tiles, bedding, and many other products. There are many possibilities here. If you choose the right niche and advertise your business properly, you can expect big profits.

94. Renewable energy repair & maintenance Green energy involves a lot of installations, connections and technical conversions. Renewable energy also requires maintenance and service, and sometimes repair of used equipment. Since this field of energy is currently developing a lot, the demand for this type of repair and maintenance services will increase. Selling and installing green energy can also be a good business idea.

95. Biotech company Demand for the services of biotech companies is strong and will continue to grow both in the UK and around the world. Production of medical devices and diagnostics, biomaterials, biofuels or pollution controls are just some of the very profitable things such a company can offer. Such companies are also key in agriculture and in many areas of industry, so this is undoubtedly a valuable niche business that will be very profitable in the coming years.

96. Glamping (organization & related products sale) Everyone needs to get out of the city sometimes and get closer to nature. Glamping is a great way to relax, unwind and get some peace and tranquility. England is full of beautiful peaceful natural places that are perfect for glamping. You can advertise your glamping business using social media to show future customers pictures and videos of your glamping business.

97. Luxury reusable grocery bags & high quality reusable grocery bags Reusable shopping bags are things that hundreds of millions of people around the world use. These bags are usually boring, simple, banal and not very distinctive – this is a great business opportunity – offer such bags in a luxury version, in an ultra-convenient version, or in a compact version so that it is easy to fold such bags. The potential for improvement of such bags is very wide, and there will certainly be many people willing to buy such a bag.

98. 100% organic grocery store If you want to start an organic grocery store, you need to know some important factors. The most important factor is sourcing the best suppliers for your products. This should be done by contacting the major organizations that favor organic products and ask them to provide you with better bulk deals. Next, you need to educate your staff on the benefits of organic products. 

99. Junk removal service Often people or companies want to dispose of a large amount of junk, or something that is too large or heavy to remove without the help of a professional company. If there isn’t one in your area, you may want to consider starting such a business.

100. Chauffer & vip transportation services The demand for transportation services continues to grow in London. Both normal and premium transportation is in demand. Such services are needed by people who have a lot of money, want to feel safe, want to transport valuable products, or are tourists who want to feel luxurious.

OTHER HIGH DEMAND LONDON BUSINESS IDEAS FOR 2023

Bed & breakfast

Gutter cleaning

Luggage storage business

Construction company

Cleaning services

Appliances repair

Handyman services

Youth hostel

Online flipping

Wholesale distribution business

Drone light shows

NFT for real estate market

Popular retail products sale

Read also: TOP 40 Products to Sell in the UK Online in 2022

And in your opinion, what are the most profitable and forward-looking London busines ideas for 2023? Share your opinion in the comments section below!

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69 London Startups to Watch (and Work for) in 2024

In 2022, London startups raised $18 Billion in capital (after raising $21 Billion in 2021). In 2023, they've raised $12 Billion, reflecting the growing investor confidence in the region in spite of the slower VC activity caused by the post-boom crash.

This list features the top London startups of 2024 — updated as of October. It includes companies like Updraft, SumUp and Bumper, covering all sectors and business models. We update it monthly by tracking all startup activity in our database of 17,000 technology companies in Europe and sort companies dynamically using our Seedtable score, ensuring objectivity. Whether you're an experienced investor, a determined founder, or a resourceful operator this list of top 69 tech startups is worth exploring.

Last update: January 15, 2024. Added companies, investors and rounds. See changelog .

Featured companies in London

Updraft

Consumer lending platform.

$340 Million · Series D

MoreThan Capital, Nueva Capital, Quilam Capital

Fintech, Payments

•••••@updraft.com Unlock contact info

SumUp

Payments processing platform for small businesses.

$310 Million · Series D

1001 to 5000

BBVA Ventures, Groupon, American Express Ventures, Life.SREDA, Venture Incubator, LLC, Crestline, Bain Capital Credit, Shortcut Ventures, Sixth Street, Temasek Holdings, Goldman Sachs, btov Partners, TEV Ventures

•••••@sumup.co.uk Unlock contact info

Bumper

BNPL platform for car dealerships.

$51 Million · Series B

Elderstreet Investments, Porsche, Autotech Ventures, InMotion, Shell Ventures, Revo Capital

B2B, B2C, MARKETPLACE

Fintech, Mobility & Transportation

•••••@bumper.co.uk Unlock contact info

  • Cambridge (196)
  • Manchester (162)
  • Bristol (72)
  • Oxford (56)
  • Belfast (51)
  • Birmingham (44)
  • Newcastle (24)
  • Brighton (22)

List of 69 top tech companies in London

Liberis

AI-powered embedded finance platform for SMEs.

$110 Million · Debt Financing

FTV Capital, Blenheim Chalcot, BCI Finance, British Business Investments, Barclays, Barclays Corporate Banking, HSBC, Silicon Valley Bank

•••••@liberis.com Unlock contact info

ZeroAvia

Clean propulsion technology for larger aircraft.

$120 Million · Series C

NEOM, UK Infrastructure Bank, Barclays, SYSTEMIQ, Airbus Ventures, Breakthrough Energy Ventures, AENU, SGH CAPITAL

•••••@zeroavia.com Unlock contact info

Hyperexponential

Digital insurance platform.

$73 Million · Series B

B2C, MARKETPLACE

A16Z, Battery Ventures, Highland Europe

•••••@hyperexponential.com Unlock contact info

Build A Rocket Boy

Community gaming platform.

$110 Million · Series D

Galaxy Interactive, RedBird Capital Partners, NetEase, Endeavor Catalyst

•••••@buildarocketboy.com Unlock contact info

Travelport

Travel booking solutions for travel suppliers.

$570 Million · Series D

Travel Tech

1001 to 5001

Siris Capital Group, Elliott Investment Management, Davidson Kempner, Canyon Partners

•••••@travelport.com Unlock contact info

Curve

Discover the all-in-one banking platform.

$71 Million · Series C

Gauss Ventures, Seedcamp, Credit Suisse, IDC Ventures, Speedinvest, Mouro Capital, Outward VC, Breega Capital, Nekko Capital

•••••@curve.com Unlock contact info

Dice

Music ticketing platform.

$65 Million · Series C

Music and Audio

Structural Capital, SoftBank Group, Blisce, Kima Ventures, White Star Capital, Exor Ventures

•••••@dice.fm Unlock contact info

Shop Circle

One-stop shop software provider for ecommerce.

$120 Million · Series A

3VC, NFX, Firstminute Capital

•••••@shopcircle.co Unlock contact info

Vortexa

Data analytics platform for energy and freight markets.

$34 Million · Series C

Data and Analytics, Energy & Nuclear

Inclusive Ventures Lab, Mosaic Ventures, Notion Capital, FJ Labs, Metaplanet Holdings

•••••@vortexa.com Unlock contact info

Butternut Box

Direct-to-consumer pet wellness company.

$350 Million · Series D

Foodtech, Pet Tech

501 to 1000

General Atlantic, Five Seasons Ventures, L Catterton, White Star Capital, HSBC, Passion Capital

•••••@butternutbox.com Unlock contact info

Screendragon

SaaS-based workflow automation platform.

$27 Million · Series B

Sales and Marketing

Kennet Partners, Federated Hermes

•••••@screendragon.com Unlock contact info

Fleximize

Lending platform for SMEs in the UK.

$170 Million · Debt Financing

Hadrians Wall Capital, Citibank, Goldman Sachs

•••••@fleximize.com Unlock contact info

AutogenAI

Natural language processing solution for bids.

$40 Million · Series B

AI, Developer Tools

Spark Capital, Blossom Capital, Salesforce Ventures

•••••@autogenai.com Unlock contact info

Vertice

Spend management SaaS platform.

$25 Million · Series B

83North, Bessemer Venture Partners

•••••@vertice.one Unlock contact info

Perenna

Perenna is building a mortgage lender with a customer-first mindset.

$52 Million · Series B

IAG Silverstripe

•••••@perenna.co.uk Unlock contact info

Blockchain.com

Platform to buy, hold, and use cryptocurrency.

$110 Million · Series E

Fintech, Crypto & web3

Prudence, Kingsway Capital, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Coinbase Ventures, GV, Lakestar, Mosaic Ventures

•••••@blockchain.com Unlock contact info

Uncapped

Revenue-based financing platform.

$240 Million · Debt Financing

Seedcamp, Fortress Investment Group, Lakestar, Mouro Capital, Global Founders Capital (GFC)

•••••@weareuncapped.com Unlock contact info

Apollo Therapeutics

Portfolio of pharmaceutical research and discovery.

Biotech, Pharma

Patient Square Capital, Rock Springs Capital, M&G Investments

•••••@apollotherapeutics.com Unlock contact info

Automata

Workflow automation platform for the life sciences industry.

Health Tech, Machine Learning

Dimension, Local Globe, Latitude, ABB Technology Ventures, Isomer Capital, Hummingbird Ventures, A.P. Moller Holding, Entrepreneur First, Octopus Ventures, HCVC, Aldea VC, Firstminute Capital

•••••@automata.tech Unlock contact info

PhysicsX

AI-powered engineering simulation platform.

$32 Million · Series A

AI, Machine Learning

General Catalyst, Radius Capital, Standard Investments

•••••@physicsx.ai Unlock contact info

Abound

Consumer lending bank.

$600 Million · Debt Financing

K3 Ventures, GSR Ventures

•••••@getabound.com Unlock contact info

GetHarley

Skin care telehealth platform.

Health Tech

Village Global, Index Ventures, Headline, Visionaries Club

•••••@getharley.com Unlock contact info

Yonder

Credit card for foodies.

$15 Million · Series A

Fintech, Mobile, Ecommerce

Northzone, Local Globe, Seedcamp, RTP Global, Cocoa VC, Frontline Ventures, Tiny VC, TrueSight Ventures

•••••@yondercard.com Unlock contact info

Field

Battery energy storage developer.

$250 Million · Series D

Climate Tech & Green Tech, Energy & Nuclear

•••••@field.energy Unlock contact info

Oritain

Provides forensic science verification of origin traceability in supply chains.

$57 Million · Series C

Foodtech, Supply Chain & Logistics

Long Ridge Equity Partners, Highland Europe

•••••@oritain.com Unlock contact info

Meniga

Digital banking platform.

$16 Million · Series D

Groupe BPCE, Islandsbanki, Kjölfesta, Crédit Agricole Innove en Normandie, Swedbank Robur, UniCredit Group, Velocity Capital Fintech Ventures, Anthemis, Industrifonden, Frumtak Ventures

•••••@meniga.com Unlock contact info

ZILO

Digital asset and wealth management platform.

Fintech, Investing

Fidelity International Strategic Ventures, State Street Corporation, Portage Ventures, Citibank

•••••@zilo.co.uk Unlock contact info

Global Futures and Options

Digital asset derivatives trading platform.

$30 Million · Series B

M&G Investments

•••••@gfo-x.com Unlock contact info

Synthesia

AI-powered video synthesis platform.

$90 Million · Series C

Kleiner Perkins, FirstMark Capital, Accel, GV, Seedcamp, MMC Ventures, Tiny VC, VAS Ventures

•••••@synthesia.io Unlock contact info

Beacon Therapeutics

Oophthalmic gene therapy company to treat blinding retinal illnesses.

Health Tech, Biotech

Syncona Partners LLP

•••••@beacontx.com Unlock contact info

Smart

Pension management platform.

$95 Million · Series E

Aquiline Technology Growth

•••••@smart.co Unlock contact info

WealthKernel

Cutting-edge digital investment solutions provider.

$7.6 Million · Series A

Developer Tools, Investing

XTX Ventures, ETFS Capital, Digital Horizon, Big Start Ventures, Portfolio Ventures

•••••@wealthkernel.com Unlock contact info

Causaly

Biomedical research discovery tool.

$60 Million · Series B

Health Tech, AI, Biotech, Pharma

Index Ventures, ICONIQ Growth, Pentech Ventures, Marathon VC

•••••@causaly.com Unlock contact info

Volt

Open banking software.

IVP, Augmentum Fintech, EQT Ventures, Fuel Ventures

•••••@volt.io Unlock contact info

Envisics

Augmented reality head-up displays (AR-HUDs) and automotive sensor systems.

$50 Million · Series C

AR / VR, Mobility & Transportation

•••••@envisics.com Unlock contact info

Robin AI

AI-powered legal copilot.

AI, Legal Tech

AFG Partners, SoftBank Group, Temasek Holdings, Atomico, Plural, Forward Partners, Episode 1

•••••@robinai.co.uk Unlock contact info

Nothing

Consumer tech company that develops electronics like headphones and phones.

$96 Million · Series C

CPG & Consumer Goods

GV, Highland Europe, EQT Ventures

•••••@nothing.tech Unlock contact info

Complement Therapeutics

Preclinical stage treatment for geographic atrophy.

$79 Million · Series A

Forbion Capital Partners, Gimv

•••••@complementtx.com Unlock contact info

Sylvera

Software to track the performance of carbon offsets.

$57 Million · Series B

Climate Tech & Green Tech, AI

Balderton Capital, Index Ventures, Local Globe, Insight Venture Partners, Seedcamp, Speedinvest

•••••@sylvera.com Unlock contact info

Quantum Motion

Silicon quantum processors.

Robert Bosch Venture Capital

•••••@quantummotion.tech Unlock contact info

Cera

Cera Care is a London-based technology-enabled home care company.

$160 Million

Health Tech, Mobile, Service Industry, ElderTech

5001 to 10000

Oltre Venture

•••••@ceracare.co.uk Unlock contact info

Me+Em

Online and brick and mortar fashion retailer founded by Clare Honrby.

$72 Million

CPG & Consumer Goods, Fashion, Ecommerce

Highland Europe

•••••@meandem.com Unlock contact info

Stability AI

AI-driven visual art startup.

$50 Million · Series B

AI, Data and Analytics, Art

Lightspeed Venture Partners, Intel, Fourth Revolution Capital, Kadmos Capital, Sound Ventures

•••••@stability.ai Unlock contact info

Revolut

Revolut is a financial services company that specializes in mobile banking, card payments, money remittance, and foreign exchange.

$800 Million · Series E

Fintech, Mobile

SoftBank Group

•••••@revolut.com Unlock contact info

Transreport

Passenger assistance technology.

$13 Million · Series A

Travel Tech, Data and Analytics

Puma Private Equity, Pembroke VCT, Blackfinch Ventures, Praetura Ventures

•••••@transreport.co.uk Unlock contact info

Zepz

Zepz is a money transfer service that helps migrants send money to their loved ones all over the world.

$290 Million · Series E

Fintech, Mobile, Payments

•••••@zepzpay.com Unlock contact info

Infogrid

AI-driven building monitoring tech.

$30 Million · Debt Financing

Hardware, AI, Proptech & Real Estate, Manufacturing, Internet of Things

Northzone, SoftBank Group, Concrete Venture Capital

•••••@infogrid.io Unlock contact info

Fnality International

Blockchain-based payment platform.

$96 Million · Series B

ING Ventures, DTCC, Euroclear, Credit Suisse, BNP Paribas, Goldman Sachs, UBS

•••••@fnality.org Unlock contact info

Monzo

Digital-only bank.

$500 Million

General Catalyst, Latitude, Accel, Goodwater Capital, Passion Capital, Y Combinator

•••••@monzo.com Unlock contact info

Lottie

Eldercare platform.

$20 Million · Series A

General Catalyst, Accel, Kindred Capital, Creator Ventures, BlueYard Capital

•••••@lottie.org Unlock contact info

Ozone API

Open banking API platform.

$11 Million · Series A

Fintech, Developer Tools

Gresham House Ventures

•••••@ozoneapi.com Unlock contact info

Aztec

Ethereum trading protocol.

$100 Million · Series B

Crypto & web3

•••••@aztec.network Unlock contact info

Starling Bank

Mobile banking application.

$170 Million

Chrysalis Investments, Merian Global Investors, Qatar Investment Authority, Goldman Sachs

•••••@starlingbank.com Unlock contact info

Tide

Tide is a business banking platform with a mission to save small businesses time and money on their banking and admin.

$100 Million · Series C

Augmentum Fintech, Latitude, Speedinvest, Anthemis

•••••@tide.co Unlock contact info

Checkout

API-based online payment platform.

$1 Billion · Series D

Fintech, Payments, Ecommerce

Qatar Investment Authority, Insight Venture Partners, Blossom Capital, Ribbit Capital, GIC

•••••@checkout.com Unlock contact info

Lyst

Fashion search platform that allows users to browse through thousands of online fashion stores.

$85 Million

Molten Ventures

•••••@lyst.com Unlock contact info

Rapyd

Cardless financial network.

$300 Million · Series D

General Catalyst, Latitude, Target Global, Entrée Capital, FJ Labs

•••••@rapyd.net Unlock contact info

Pollinate

Cloud-based platform focused on merchant-acquiring for banks

Fintech, Data and Analytics, Business Intelligence

National Australia Bank, Insight Venture Partners, Mastercard, Motive Partners

•••••@pollinate.co.uk Unlock contact info

Globacap

Platform to digitize private capital markets.

$21 Million · Series B

Johannesburg Stock Exchange, GABI Ventures, Cboe Global Markets, Moore Strategic Ventures, Stoic Capital

•••••@globacap.com Unlock contact info

OneWeb

Communications network that delivers high-speed, low latency internet access.

$300 Million

Space Tech, Mobility & Transportation, Manufacturing

•••••@oneweb.world Unlock contact info

Soldo

Soldo is a multi-user expense account helping companies manage their budgets.

$180 Million · Series C

Accel, Dawn Capital, Connect Ventures

•••••@soldo.com Unlock contact info

Pollen

Pollen is an invite-only marketplace, using influencer marketing for experiences and events. Not active.

$150 Million

Media and Entertainement, Sales and Marketing

Northzone, Kindred Capital, Molten Ventures, BACKED VC

•••••@pollen.co Unlock contact info

Fuse Energy

Renewable energy producer.

$86 Million · Series C

Balderton Capital, Accel, Creandum, Lakestar

•••••@fuseenergy.com Unlock contact info

HumanForest

E-bike micromobility platform.

$6.3 Million · Series A

Mobility & Transportation

The Venture City, Fen Ventures, güil Mobility Ventures

•••••@humanforest.co.uk Unlock contact info

Statera

Green energy producer.

$380 Million · Debt Financing

Siemens AG, Santander Bank, NatWest Group, Lloyds Banking Group

•••••@stateraenergy.co.uk Unlock contact info

what are the best business ideas in london

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  • Osome Blog UK

Starting a business in London: business ideas, services to help

Author Osome Content Team

Are you considering starting a business in London? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of company registration, choosing the right business, and all the necessary steps to start a successful venture in the vibrant city.

Starting a business in London: business ideas, services to help

Skip to read:

Introduction

Are you considering starting a business in London? Look no further! The capital city of the United Kingdom offers a thriving business environment, numerous opportunities, and a diverse market. However, starting a company and navigating the legal procedures can be a daunting task, especially if you are unfamiliar with the local regulations. That's where Osome comes in! With their top-notch company registration and company incorporation services, Osome simplifies the entire process, ensuring a smooth launch for your business in London.

Why Choose Osome for Company Registration in London?

When it comes to company registration in London, Osome stands out as a trusted partner. Their team of experienced professionals understands the intricacies of the local market and the legal requirements involved in setting up a business. Here's why you should choose Osome:

  • Expert Guidance: Osome provides expert guidance throughout the company registration process, ensuring that you meet all the legal obligations and paperwork requirements. Their team of professionals will assist you in choosing the most suitable business structure, registering your company with the appropriate authorities, and obtaining all the necessary licenses and permits.
  • Efficiency: Osome understands the value of time when starting a business. They streamline the entire registration process, allowing you to focus on other crucial aspects of your business. With their efficient services, you can have your company up and running in no time.
  • Cost-Effective: Setting up a business can be costly, but Osome offers competitive pricing for their company registration services. They have transparent pricing plans, ensuring that you get the best value for your investment.
  • Post-Registration Support: Osome's commitment to your success doesn't end with company registration. They provide ongoing support and assistance with accounting, taxation, and compliance matters, helping you stay on top of your financial obligations.

How to Register a Company in London: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you understand the benefits of using Osome's company registration services, let's dive into the step-by-step process of registering a company in London:

Step 1: Choose a Business Name

The first step in starting your business is choosing a unique and memorable business name. Make sure to check for the availability of the name and ensure that it aligns with your business goals and branding strategy.

Step 2: Determine the Business Structure

Next, you need to determine the most suitable business structure for your company. Options include a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability partnership (LLP), or limited company. Each structure has its own advantages and legal requirements.

Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents

Prepare the necessary documents for company registration, including the Articles of Association, Memorandum of Association, and shareholder agreements. These documents outline the structure, rights, and responsibilities of the company.

Step 4: Register with Companies House

Register your company with Companies House, the official registrar of companies in the UK. Provide all the required information, including the company name, business structure, registered office address, and details of company directors and shareholders.

Step 5: Obtain the Necessary Licenses and Permits

Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain additional licenses and permits. Osome will guide you through this process, ensuring that you comply with all the legal requirements.

Step 6: Set up a Business Bank Account

Opening a business bank account is essential for managing your finances and separating personal and business expenses. Osome can assist you in setting up a business bank account, making it convenient for you to handle financial transactions.

Step 7: Ensure Compliance with Taxation and Accounting Obligations

As a registered company in London, you have certain taxation and accounting obligations. Osome offers comprehensive accounting and taxation services to ensure that you stay compliant with the local regulations.

With Osome's expertise and guidance, registering a company in London becomes a hassle-free process.

Starting a Business in London: Best Business Ideas

London offers a plethora of opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. Here are some of the best business ideas to consider:

1. Tech Startup:

London is a global tech hub, making it an ideal location for starting a tech startup. Embrace innovation and leverage London's vibrant tech ecosystem to launch your next big idea.

2. Food and Beverage Business:

London's diverse culinary scene presents excellent opportunities for food and beverage businesses. Whether it's a trendy café, a street food stall, or a niche restaurant, Londoners are always seeking new gastronomic experiences.

3. E-commerce and Online Retail:

The rise of e-commerce has revolutionized the retail industry. Capitalize on this trend by starting an e-commerce business, selling unique products or providing specialized services.

4. Fashion and Lifestyle:

London is known for its fashion and lifestyle trends. Consider starting a fashion boutique, a sustainable clothing brand, or a lifestyle consultancy to tap into this thriving market.

5. Creative Services:

London is a hub for creative industries, including design, advertising, and marketing. If you have a flair for creativity, starting a creative agency or offering specialized services can be a lucrative venture.

Remember, the key to success lies in identifying a gap in the market, understanding your target audience, and delivering a unique value proposition.

Starting a business in London is an exciting endeavor, but it requires careful planning and adherence to legal procedures. With Osome's professional company registration and business incorporation services, you can navigate the complexities with ease. From choosing the right business structure to obtaining the necessary licenses, Osome ensures a seamless experience. Don't let administrative tasks hinder your entrepreneurial dreams. Trust Osome to unlock your success in the vibrant city of London!

Try Osome

1. How do I register a company in London as a foreigner?

As a foreigner, you can register a company in London by following the same process as a UK resident. Osome can assist you with the necessary documentation and legal requirements to establish your business presence in the UK.

2. What is the best business to start in London?

The best business to start in London depends on various factors, including market demand, competition, and your own skills and interests. Conduct thorough market research and identify opportunities that align with your expertise and passion.

3. How do I start a cleaning business in London?

To start a cleaning business in London, you need to register your company, obtain the necessary licenses, and develop a marketing strategy to reach potential clients. Osome can guide you through the process and help you establish a successful cleaning business.

4. How do I start a small business in London?

Starting a small business in London follows the same process as starting any other business. Determine your business idea, register your company, and comply with the legal obligations. Osome's services can simplify the process and provide ongoing support.

5. How do I open a company bank account in London?

To open a company bank account in London, you need to provide the necessary documents, such as your company registration information, proof of identity, and proof of address. Osome can assist you in setting up a business bank account and ensuring a smooth banking experience.

  • Incorporation

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What Is The Meaning Of A Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)?

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Explore the world of Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) and discover their unique characteristics. Protecting partners' personal assets, providing flexibility in management and profit sharing. Weigh the pros and cons, and learn how to set up an LLP to suit your business needs.

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Doing Business in London - A Guide for Expat Entrepreneurs

what are the best business ideas in london

London is an international city famous for its business and cultural diversity; from bankers to fashion designers and Information Technology to creative industries. These businesses can be found in many shapes and sizes all over London; solopreneurs, small and medium-sized businesses, large corporations and social enterprises and charities.

London also has a strong charity and social enterprise culture, and for the past few years this has been a growth area for entrepreneurs. Starting a charity or a social enterprise can be very tax efficient and therefore appealing to some businesses.

On top of that, television programmes like Dragon’s Den and the Apprentice have been hugely popular, and have resulted in an increase in investors willing to financially support innovative ideas and the government introducing incentives for promising start-ups.

Business culture in London

Business culture in London is similar to that of the US in that it is informal. But expats might find that the English are not as direct as elsewhere.

The English network is based on a sort of farming – you have to sow before you can harvest; warm referrals, not instant business card swapping.

Doing business in London is based on trust; an English person has to get to know you and your business first before they will refer or introduce you to their business contacts.

It is very normal to do business in an informal environment in London; for instance, meeting at a private member’s club or at a coffee shop. As long as you can find a private corner to talk, it is widely accepted to do business outside the office environment in London.

There are lots of networking opportunities throughout London for breakfast, lunch, dinner or drinks, and a few that specifically focus on female entrepreneurs. One way to find out which network would be most suitable is simply to sign up for trial meetings of different business network groups. A mixture of different networks can be a valuable asset for your business.

Starting a business in London

As an expat it is simple to start a business. Everyone can be a solopreneur; basically starting a business from behind your kitchen table by opening a business bank account, registering your business at HMRC, printing some business cards and setting up a website or blog.

Expats will find that they often don’t need a formal office space when starting a business in London. There are lots of places where you can plug in your computer, grab a cup of coffee and network with other entrepreneurs around you. 

Unlike in some other European countries, it doesn’t cost a lot to start a limited company in the UK. A limited company gives you a more professional outlook and it is easy to register your business via Companies House.

Unlike elsewhere, the UK and specifically in London, women are encouraged to start their own business.

Expat business people vary in age, sex, background and interests, so starting a business in London can be done at any age or level of experience.

Support for business in London

Throughout the year there are lots of opportunities to visit exhibitions about starting your own business or starting a franchise.

The government encourages people to start their own businesses. There is a lot of free help available to start a new business via the official website, www.gov.uk .There is also an investment scheme that was launched by the government in April 2012. The scheme gives investors up to 78 percent tax relief on investments into small start-up companies ( www.seis.co.uk ).

Do's and don'ts of business in London

Shake hands, introduce yourself and explain your business. Politeness is essential.

Start a discussion or meeting with a general talk about an uncontroversial topic such as the weather or the city.

Dress smartly but not too flashily.

Take your time over negotiations; listen carefully to what the English say as they use the language to give clues about their negotiating position.

Ask advice from other business people. They are always willing to help and it is a good way to open a conversation.

Get personal; keep it professional. The English do not tend to talk about personal topics unless they know you very well

Be too generous; offer a drink or maybe dinner but do not overdo it or they will consider that you are trying to bribe them

Expect to become a close business contact immediately; the English build up relationships over a long time.

Show your emotions – the English find it hard to deal with and will think that you are unreliable.

Discuss business at a social occasion unless someone asks you about it. It is acceptable to mention your job or business but not to try and promote it unless someone asks you about it. 

More information

► Working in London provides an insight into the city's unique economy

what are the best business ideas in london

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what are the best business ideas in london

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Top seven small business ideas for any entrepreneur in London

  • 12 December 2023
  • The Londoners
  • Follow @SW_Londoner

Are you an aspiring entrepreneur looking for small business ideas in London?

Look no further!

London is a city with a thriving economy and a diverse population, making it a great place to start a business.

Here are seven great ideas to consider if you’re stuck for inspiration:

Travel Agency

London, a major global city, attracts millions of tourists and business travellers every year.

Starting a travel agency in London could be a profitable venture.

You can assist travellers in planning their visits, including booking flights, accommodations, and arranging transportation.

By providing excellent customer service and tailored travel experiences, you can establish a reputable travel agency in this bustling city. 

Online Casino Operators

The online gambling and betting industry is booming worldwide and the UK is no exception.

Online casinos are hugely popular among local players who enjoy the opportunity to wager on slots, blackjack, roulette, poker, and much more, while making the most of the convenience that online platforms offer.

The UK market is already worth £15.3 billion, and the worldwide gambling market is set to reach almost £90 billion over the next 5 years. 

So, there is a huge opportunity for entrepreneurs to enter this market and target countries all over the world – it doesn’t have to stay local.

Even at home, more and more customers are turning to non gamstop casinos UK players can access – these are typically licenced overseas and can offer their services to those signed up for the self-exclusion scheme as they operate outwith the UK’s regulations.

So, the potential audience for your new business venture is massive.

Becoming an online casino operator can be a lucrative business venture, especially with the ever-present popularity of online gambling in London and the rest of the UK.

London’s culinary scene is as diverse as its population, making a restaurant or café a smart business move.

Whether you’re serving traditional British fare, international cuisine, or fusion dishes, there’s always a market for good food in London.

Focus on creating unique dining experiences to attract both locals and tourists, and don’t forget the importance of amazing customer service and a strong presence on review sites to attract more customers.

If you’ve always lived in London, you’re bound to know a thing or two about the city’s landmarks that tourists would be eager to hear about.

And, London’s rich history and cultural heritage make it a prime location for tour guide services.

From historical landmarks like the Tower of London to cultural attractions like the West End, offering personalized tours can be a lucrative business.

Specialising in niche tours, such as literary walks or culinary tours, can set you apart.

So, think about what you know best and turn it into a business opportunity – countless others are, so why couldn’t you be next? 

Smoothie or Juice Bar

While London isn’t blessed with an abundance of tropical fruits, the city’s health-conscious population makes it an ideal location for a smoothie or juice bar.

The growing trend towards health consciousness among Londoners has led to a surge in demand for health food shops and juice bars.

This shift in consumer behaviour is driven by a greater awareness of the importance of nutrition and the desire for a healthier lifestyle .

As an entrepreneur, tapping into this market can be both rewarding and profitable.

To meet this demand, your health food shop or juice bar can offer a wide array of organic products.

Organic foods, free from pesticides and artificial additives, are increasingly popular among health-conscious consumers who are mindful of what they eat.

By sourcing your produce from local organic farms, you not only ensure freshness and quality but also support the local economy and reduce your carbon footprint.

Sell British Souvenirs

Capitalizing on London’s tourist appeal, a souvenir shop selling British-themed items like tea sets, Big Ben replicas, or Union Jack merchandise could be successful.

Offering authentic and locally made products can attract tourists looking for memorable keepsakes.

Of course, there’s already a lot of this on the market, so you’ll need to innovate to stand out.

Try adding a fun and quirky twist that combines something else into the classic appeal of these British landmarks – or add some humour through classic British jokes about the rain.

London is a fashion capital (it even has its own Fashion Week ), and starting your own boutique could be a dream come true for fashion enthusiasts.

Keeping up with the latest trends and offering a mix of classic and contemporary styles can appeal to London’s fashion-conscious consumers.

In addition to staying current with trends, consider incorporating sustainable and ethical fashion practices, which are increasingly important to London consumers.

This approach not only appeals to environmentally conscious shoppers but also sets your boutique apart as a forward-thinking and responsible retailer.

By carefully curating your collections to reflect the eclectic and diverse tastes of London’s population, your boutique can become a go-to destination for fashion lovers seeking a unique and thoughtful shopping experience.

Images credit: Benjamin Davies on Unsplash

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startups scaleups London guide

Startups & Scale-ups in London: The Ultimate Guide

Our comprehensive guide on London-based startups will not only help you find the top startups to work for in London, startup job boards, and curated London startup lists; it will also level up your understanding of the opportunities that exist in the world of London startups. So anyone from a beginner to a professional can find something that they’re looking for.

Before we start, make sure to register for the Startups of London talent-network if you are interested in finding startup jobs in London. We are in contact with startups who are hiring, and can get you introductions with founders.

  • Top 50 Startups to Work for in London
  • Carefully Curated Startup Lists
  • Top Startup Job Boards
  • Useful Resources for Startup Enthusiasts

1. Top 50 Startups to Work for in London

This list of the best London startups and scale-ups to work for in London is brought to you by the Startups of London team. H ere you can look at the highlighted names that we choose considering their foundation year, company size, funding and their Domain Authority (s earch engine ranking score & credibility factor).

Springwise

Springwise: the global source for innovation intelligence

Zopa

Zopa: peer-to-peer lending company

  • Size: ~ 500

OakNorth

OakNorth: proven cloud software transforming commercial lending

  • Size: > 500

JustPark

Justpark: the Parking App reinventing parking for the digital era

  • Size: ~ 100

Seeders

Seedrs: the leading equity crowdfunding platform

  • Size: ~ 200

what are the best business ideas in london

DeepMind:research and build safe AI systems

what are the best business ideas in london

WorldRemit: changing the way people send money abroad

Crowdcube

Crowdcube: fuelling the next generation of businesses

what are the best business ideas in london

Kantar: the world’s leading data, insights and consulting company

  • Size: ~ 10K

Funding Circle

Funding Circle: the world’s leading lending platform for small businesses

Perkbox

Perkbox: helping employees live better - in life and at work

Blockchain

Blockchain: building the future of finance

Wise

Wise: formerly TransferWise. Still building the world's most international account

Citymapper

Citymapper: making cities usable

  • Size: < 5

MarketInvoice

MarketInvoice: helping businesses get wherever they want to go, however they choose to get there

  • Size: > 40

Creative Nature

Creative Nature: Creating Snacks, Baking Mixes and Superfoods that are always Top 14 Allergen Free & delicious

what are the best business ideas in london

GoCardless: take the pain out of getting paid for businesses with recurring revenue

Iwoca

Iwoca: provides access to finance where and when your business needs it

  • Size: ~ 250

what are the best business ideas in london

Huckletree: getting the right mindsets, skills, and people around a particular sector under one roof

OneWeb

OneWeb: the global communications company connecting everyone, everywhere.

what are the best business ideas in london

Climate-KIC: helping Europe mitigate climate change by innovating its finance and more

Onfido

Onfido: creating a more open world, where identity is the key to access

Improbable

Improbable: providing better ways to make multiplayer games and help developers meet any challenge

Triptease

Triptease: a SaaS startup building software for the hotel industry

Curated

Curated: improving the process of building and sending email newsletters

Loop

Loop: upgrades your Gmail or Outlook inbox and reorganizes your mail

Sonovate

Sonovate: changing how businesses of all shapes and sizes access to finance and support to manage their freelance workforce

Peak Brain Training

Peak Brain Training: helping the world spend their time better using tools & techniques borrowed from education, neuroscience, and gaming

Deliveroo

Deliveroo: transforming the way the world thinks about food delivery

  • Size: ~ 1000

Monese

Monese: reimagining the way banking works & makes it easy to manage your money

  • Size: ~ 400

Marvel

Marvel: creating an all-in-one design-led platform that democratises the design process

what are the best business ideas in london

Hubble: combining smart search with unrivalled data & property expertise to find your ideal space

what are the best business ideas in london

Starship: builds self-driving local delivery robots

Funderbeam

Funderbeam: reimagining investment to create liquidity

Emojipedia

Emojipedia: the world's number one emoji resource, serving 300 million emoji definitions each year

Signal AI

Signal AI: a media monitoring, reputation management, market intelligence platform powered by AI

Babylon Health

Babylon Health: putting an accessible and affordable health service in the hands of every person on Earth

  • Size: > 1000

Touch Surgery

Touch Surgery: helping surgeons & health systems deliver consistent, high-quality surgery through AI and data

Appear Here

Appear Here: the leading online marketplace for short-term retail space

Yieldify

Yieldify: bringing personalization to the full customer journey

Blow LTD

blow LTD: the UK’s leader in beauty services on-demand, wherever & whenever you need them

what3words.com

what3words: used by businesses & governments to operate more efficiently; by individuals to share locations

Tutor House

Tutor House: improving the quality of education through personalised learning

Smart Space

SmartSpace: leading smart workplace technology to the commercial workplace & more

Revolut

Revolut: building the world’s first truly global financial super-app

  • Size: ~ 2000

Fleximize

Fleximize: providing UK SMEs with flexible finance, done properly

Ormsby Street

Ormsby Street: helps small businesses make take control of their money

Wirex

Wirex: making crypto and traditional currencies equal & accessible

Atom Bank

Atom Bank: the UK’s first bank built for mobile

  • Size: ~ 300

Influencer

Influencer: combining human creativity and intelligent global data

2. carefully curated startup lists.

Below are the well-researched startup lists created specifically for startups and scaleups from different niché:

Top AI Startups & Companies in London

Top FinTech Startups & Scale-ups in London

Top Legal Tech Startups & Scale-ups in the UK

Top EdTech Startups & Scale-ups in London

Top HR Tech Startups & Scale-ups in London

6 Genomics Startups of the Illumina Accelerator

3. Top Startup Job Boards for 2021

There are various job boards helping  job seekers who are looking for a matching position at startups and scale-ups to scale their careers during their journey.

Here is the list of top startup job boards you should consider while searching for your next adventure in a startup in London:

  • UK Startup Jobs
  • Unicorn Hunt
  • Work in Startups
  • Hired by Startups
  • The Guardian Jobs
  • Target Jobs

Mere stats and words can never explain the complete turnaround of the market economy of the past few years – with new players dominating the once tight knit elite stronghold and unique ideas flooding the global landscape, this truly is a new world. Everyone here craves success but only a few get to taste it – those who do follow compact yet unorthodox guidelines which help them carve out a path that is entirely their own. Startups and Scale-ups; through proper channels and funding have taken the world economy by a storm. From Bill Gates to Elon Musk; the best way to make your mark is to make it yourself.

We believe that the future is what you want to make of it. Our comprehensive guide turns your abstract thoughts into objective realities and motivates you to work for your own success. Together with our lists and rankings of all, there is to know about London startups, useful advice to help you realize your goals, and valuable resources such as coveted interviews with the top of the game, this guide won’t only help you achieve the limitless, it will make you understand how you would be doing it.

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Best locations in London for startups

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With the number of new businesses in London on the rise, and the government helping young companies with specific startup grants, there’s never been a better time to open shop in this resource-packed metropolis.

Several startup hubs are emerging across the city, particularly in technology, creative, fashion, and media. Yet with so many options, it’s difficult to know the best place to put down roots. You’ll want to consider which areas are the most nurturing to young businesses and team-building for creative groups , and in what communities you are most likely to succeed.

Looking at recent government statistics , four boroughs in London stand out as hotbeds for starting fresh: Camden, Hackney, Westminster, and Islington are the neighbourhoods with the greatest number of new businesses opening each year. Across these boroughs, WeWork’s shared offices help boost productivity and enrich collaboration. Our agile workstations cater to teams of all sizes, while all-inclusive amenities take the hassle out of moving in. Plus, flexible agreements allow you to scale at your own pace, without the pressure of long-term leases and steep up-front costs.

With this in mind, we’ve looked into the benefits of setting up shop in each of these boroughs. From government grants to private incubators, here’s what you need to know about starting a business in Camden, Hackney, and Westminster, or Islington.

Home to the iconic Camden Market , this neighbourhood supports a thriving population of artisan retailers and foodies. Amid all this activity, new businesses are blossoming, and opportunities are emerging in other markets, too. A rich creative scene is found in the alleyways off Chalk Farm Road, while Camden’s burgeoning innovation sector is making leaps in town planning, health care, and the gig economy.

In the same neighbourhood, you’ll find the LDN_LAB from Facebook in Rathbone Square. This incubator helps tech startups grow, offering guidance in design, engineering, product management, and scaling to small companies founded in the last three years. The social-media giant’s product experts are assisting around 20 startups a year—a nearly unbeatable opportunity for big thinkers in tech.

Whether you’re an artist or an app developer, WeWork’s coworking spaces in Camden are vital sites of innovation and collaboration. Our all-inclusive amenities, including front-desk assistance, free-flowing coffee, and high-speed internet, ensure daily operations are taken care of—allowing you to focus on the work that matters.

Read more about WeWork’s serviced offices in Camden: Kings Place | Aviation House

One of London’s greatest users of startup funding, Hackney is a launchpad for new business across a range of sectors. Disruptors in everything from brewing coffee to helping the homeless are hard at work here, and the local council is doing everything it can to attract startups.

Invest in Hackney , an initiative led by the Council, supports new businesses and helps entrepreneurs secure investment and understand the intricacies of building a company. And the charity HBV runs workshops and provides advice in planning and scaling enterprise in Hackney.

Here, WeWork’s coworking spaces also set businesses up for success. Events, for example, are an essential part of the WeWork experience, and our curated happy hours and information sessions connect you with collaborators—here and around the world. Discover a workspace that helps you meet and surpass your business goals at WeWork’s office spaces in Hackney.

Find out more: 97 Hackney Road | Keltan House

Westminster

The streets of Westminster—the same streets of Buckingham Palace and those impenetrable government buildings—might seem like an unlikely an breeding ground for startups. But the concentration of universities in the area, as well as pockets of enduring creativity including Soho and Mayfair, continue to attract young minds and fresh ideas to the area.

In 2018, the University of Westminster (Vivienne Westwood’s alma mater, after all) launched a pop-up startup festival , alongside a big push from the local council to turn the borough into something of a haven for new business. The Westminster Business Unit , from the City of Westminster, provides tailored support to startups accessing government funding. The Council has also promised to connect small and medium-size companies in Westminster to gigabit-capable broadband—and that’s where WeWork comes in.

Not only do we take care of high-speed internet for you, we also provide a variety of flexible membership options to suit businesses of all sizes. Our hot-desk options are ideal for entrepreneurs looking for space to meet investors, while our sleek private offices are perfect for young companies moving into their first office space.

Find out more about WeWork’s coworking spaces in Westminster: Buckingham Palace Road | North West House | Medius House | 16 Great Chapel Street

Interior of WeWork 8 Devonshire Square

Brimming with professionals who are self-employed, launching a new venture, and working in some of the most innovative enterprises in the world, inspiration is never far away in Islington. Home to “silicone roundabout,” where Apple, Amazon, and Google have all based operations, the borough continues to attract startups and disruptors—particularly in tech.

WeWork’s offices in Islington provide the space you need to turn your ideas from thought bubbles into something tangible. Brainstorming rooms are ideal for kicking off big projects, while lounge areas and smart conference rooms are perfect for meeting new partners.

Whether it’s software, search engine optimisation, or online services, starting a tech business in Islington puts you in good company—and WeWork’s coworking spaces have everything you need to succeed.

Find out more about WeWork’s coworking spaces in Islington: Linen Court | The Bower | 41 Corsham Street | 145 City Road

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JUST RELEASED: View the 2024 Franchise 500 Ranking

5 Reasons Why London Is the Ideal City for Business It's a city with a rich, almost mythic history that has become a melting pot of peoples, cultures and ideas.

By Bobby Patel • Oct 3, 2018

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

You're reading Entrepreneur Europe, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media.

Whatever you're looking for, you're sure to find it in London. There are many good reasons why the U.K. capital has become one of the world's most visited cities . This cosmopolitan metropolis is not only beloved by tourists, however. Every year, London plays host to ever more businesses. Here are five reasons why it's a worthwhile option for any company, new or established, to consider.

1. Gain access to a diverse, skilled workforce.

It goes without saying that you can access a large pool of potential employees if you set up your business in a city of 8.1 million. What makes London stand out compared to other global cities is its multi-ethnicity. According to Trust for London, 41 percent of Londoners come from a black and minority ethnic (BME) background, compared to just 10 percent in the rest of the country. Diversity in the workplace helps you to understand all your customers better, and ultimately, to perform better financially .

Related: Why the North Of England Is the New London

London's multicultural population is also highly skilled. Just ask any recent graduate from anywhere else in England. About a third of them move to London upon completing their degrees. It's no surprise, then, that 24 percent of inner London inhabitants are aged 25-34. London is a place where you can hire upstart, skilled professionals who are eager to prove themselves by growing your business.

2. Get help from the U.K. government.

The U.K. is particularly supportive of small and growing enterprises, which makes the country a tempting prospect for entrepreneurs. It's relatively easy to claim financial assistance, for example via the government-backed Start Up Loans program. You can also take advantage of a number of schemes designed to reduce the tax burden a new business faces, including R&D tax credits , capital allowances and subsidized broadband .

London is the best place from which to access these and other channels of support. There are many localized services which Londoners are able to take advantage of, from Enterprise Centres , where you can apply for low-cost workspace, to growth support programs and free business libraries .

3. Make new connections, secure investment.

In 2016 alone, 205,352 new businesses were registered in London , swelling the total number of firms in the capital to around 1.1 million. According to new research from CBRE, the city is also the largest technology cluster in the EMEA region. As such, London is brimming with networking opportunities. There are plenty of organized meetups happening on a weekly basis and dedicated groups offering workshops where you can learn new skills and ideas from the hive mind.

Related: Forget London -- These 4 U.K. Tech Hubs Are Booming

London is highly investable. According to the Lord Mayor's office, tech firms in the city raised a record £2.45 billion in 2017, which makes up about 80 percent of all venture capital tech funding in the U.K. last year. Over the past two years, London tech companies have received more VC funding than Paris, Berlin and Stockholm combined . Don't forget these figures were achieved post-Brexit, which should put a lot of fears to rest. It's also good to know that more than half of all U.K. business accelerators are based in London, making it the perfect spot to take your growing business to the next level.

4. Service a wider customer base.

With six international airports, 10 major ground transport hubs and an extensive, iconic underground rail system, it's no exaggeration to say that London's infrastructure is among the best in the world. Good foundation, of course, is good for business. In London, it's easy to provide personal service to millions of potential customers within the city itself, across the U.K. and around the world.

London's geographical positioning is uniquely advantageous. Sitting next door to mainland Europe, between the Americas and Asia, you can reach most major financial hubs from London in less than a day. It also helps that London's time zone allows the city's working day to overlap with New York, Frankfurt, Singapore and Hong Kong, to name just a few.

Related: Why London's Tech Community Is Thriving, Despite Brexit

5. Enjoy room to grow and roam.

Need to find a place to work? In London, there are many coworking spaces within easy reach. Time for an upgrade? The city is committed to creating new office space -- the latest draft of the Mayor of London's New London Plan stresses the need to increase the availability of workspace to meet rising demand and to ensure that low-cost business space remains accessible over the next decades.

London is also an excellent city for entertaining visiting clients. You'll never run out of new places to take them, from world-class museums to Michelin-starred restaurants. If funds don't stretch quite that far, there's always the South Bank's hottest new pop-up. Not to mention, accommodation is plentiful across every borough, no matter what your budget.

When choosing where to do business, London meets all the right criteria. It's home to all the right people, the highest-quality services and a multitude of opportunities. When you look at it all together, London becomes even more than the sum of its parts. It's not just a city but a bridge, connecting you to comrades in arms. It's a security net, saving you from a fall. Best of all, it's a ladder, helping you rise to ever greater heights.

CEO and Founder of Appy Food & Drinks

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Most popular red arrow, vice will no longer publish content on its website, lays off hundreds of staffers.

Vice Media CEO Bruce Dixon announced the news in an internal memo to employees on Thursday.

55 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2024

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2024.

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Top small business ideas to start in London today

London is definitely one of the best places to start a business. even though it has high competition it still offers plenty of opportunities if you have a lucrative idea..

Being the capital of both England and the UK, it is the center for commerce, finance, fashion, healthcare, research, development, business, tourism, and plenty more. As such there are many opportunities for people in London that want to start a small business.

what are the best business ideas in london

Home cleaning business

Keeping your living area tidy is important for aesthetic reasons but also due to health. Particularly now, there is a high emphasis on hygiene and keeping our houses nice and clean. This means that it is a perfect time to start a house cleaning business.

Make yourself known by advertising the multiple services you are capable of providing. Start with some kind of special offer and you will become popular in no time. Ruby Cleaners from London had a similar journey of starting their own home cleaning business. They developed from a small company very quickly to where they are now. So considering this line of work could be a good choice.

Mobile catering

Many people in London don’t have time to cook and prepare their own food. Being that this is an enormous city, you will rarely have time to enjoy a freshly cooked meal. Unless you are eating out that is. However, this too can be expensive and somewhat inconvenient. So ordering some food is the next best thing.

Offering mobile catering services is a great small business idea. First of all, there is a high demand for it and there are fewer chances of you going out of business. Also, it is highly profitable due to the fact that many people use it. If you can, it would be good to offer a special recipe or a certain type of food that only you can provide. It might be a good draw for customers. 

British people are notoriously recognized as avid tea drinkers. It is their national drink and you are not an Englishmen if you don’t enjoy a nice cup of tea. Thus a tea shop is a great business idea to start with.

If you are able to offer interesting blends of tea you will be able to attract more customers. Organic brands are getting popular so advertising your tea shop as organic is also a nice way to start. If you play your cards right, one day you might end up with a franchise. 

Football club-themed pub

Besides drinking tea, people in Britain also like beer. They also like football, probably more than anything else in the world. Combine the two together and you get a great idea for a business venture. Whether you are an avid supporter yourself or just knowledgeable about sports, having a pub that is dedicated to a certain football club will attract the attention of local fans.

There are plenty of clubs in London and each one has its own fan base. If you arrange everything well you might have regular visits before and after a match. More so, people will come each day to enjoy a nice pint of beer and enjoy a game on the telly.

London is one of the modern cities in the word, but at the same time, it is a city with a very long history. Since London’s existence goes well beyond the dark ages there are plenty of interesting things to learned see about its background. Many people from all over the world come to see the sights of London and you can take advantage of that.

Becoming a tour guide is going to open a lot of doors for your business. You can specifically hold tours for a certain area and the whole city. However, being specifically themed about a single and unique thing is much more favorable than spanning across all fields. The tourist season never ends in London and you might be busy all year long.

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what are the best business ideas in london

Are you dreaming of becoming your own boss, finding financial freedom or pursuing your passion with the perfect small business idea?

The first step on this exciting journey is to find the perfect small business idea for YOU . In this article, we've curated a collection of inspiring and innovative small business ideas. So whether you're looking to turn a hobby into a business, a problem into a solution, work from home or start a virtual venture, we've got you covered. 

To help you explore the endless possibilities of entrepreneurship, we’ve divided ideas into sections. Y ou can use the jump links below to navigate to the section that interests or suits you most:

Table of Contents

  • Introduction
  • 💡 Home business ideas
  • 💡 Online business ideas
  • 💡 Side hustle business ideas
  • 💡 Recession-proof business ideas

🏡 Home small business ideas

Home businesses do what they say on the tin! You can start up and run your venture from the comfort of your own home, without the need for a separate office or commercial space.  The benefits of running a home business are numerous, from saving money on rent and overheads to having more control over your schedule and work-life balance. In fact, it’s no surprise that so many new ventures came into being when we were all stuck indoors during lockdown. That said, just because you are bossing it up from your bedroom doesn’t mean you don’t have to comply with any relevant rules and regulations (for example food or premises licences). 

1. Childminder

Kids. Can’t live with ‘em, can’t live without ‘em? Unless you are a childminder and then you can do both! A childminder is someone who provides care and education to children in their own homes – but hands them back to their parents at the end of the day. According to the latest UK statistics, there were 65,600 registered childminders in England as of August 2022. Ideally, you’ll actually like rugrats, have some prior ankle-biter experience and a child-friendly space to entertain and educate the little darlings. 

❓ See also: How to start a day nursery 🎓 Qualifications needed: Childminders in the UK need to hold a valid childcare qualification such as a Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education 📜 Rules and regulations: You will need to register with Ofsted (Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills) and meet certain requirements, such as safeguarding, staffing ratios and a curriculum and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum 💵 Cost: Start from £0

brett widgortz tiney

Even before the cost of living crisis, the childcare cost crisis in the UK was grim. In spite of its name, Tiney.co’s business aim is huge.

2. Home baker

Use your sweet tooth to create a startup! There’s a huge demand for baked goods like bread, cakes, and pastries (particularly specialist bakes that are vegan or allergen-free) from local customers, cafes and online. Sales of baking ingredients and equipment increased by 67% in the UK during the pandemic, and a poll conducted by Bake Magazine found that the pandemic led to a rise in consumers' cravings for comfort foods which has continued in these tricky economic times. 

❓ See also: How to start a bakery business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: You will need to follow food hygiene and safety regulations, such as registering with your local council and obtaining a food hygiene certificate 💵 Cost: Start from £50 for your initial setup such as baking supplies and cookware

what are the best business ideas in london

Amelia Christie-Miller launched Bold Bean Co. from her basement flat in Madrid. In one year, the startup has won listings in Planet Organic, Selfridges, Gorillas, and Waitrose.

3. Home brewer

Profit from your pint. A home brewer produces beer, cider, or wine in small quantities in their own home using specialised equipment. According to the UK's Society of Independent Brewers , the craft beer industry is booming in the UK, with an estimated 3,000 breweries producing over 14,000 different beers. Beer drinkers are increasingly looking for healthier, low-alcohol and low-calorie options so this might be a good niche to pursue. Many home brewers who started small have ended up in supermarkets!

❓ See also: How to start a microbrewery 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: It is illegal to distil alcohol without a licence in the UK, even for personal use. In England, Wales, and Scotland, the limit is 100 litres per person per year for beer and 90 litres per person per year for cider. In Northern Ireland, the limit is 60 litres per person per year for both beer and cider 💵 Cost: Start from £500 for a basic home brewing kit

what are the best business ideas in london

As of 2022, Jubel Beer is the top-selling craft beer in Sainsbury’s. But it all started because founder Jesse Wilson thought cider too sweet, and lager too bland.

4. CV writer

It's like being a matchmaker, but instead of matching couples, you're matching resumes to job descriptions. With huge amounts of movement in a highly competitive job market, people need as much help as possible to make sure their skills stand out to potential employees. If you feel you can tailor and tweak experience and expertise to be picked up by applicant tracking systems and showcase the key information that recruiters are looking for, this may be a good business idea for you. You could start small – offering your services to friends and family – and then build your clientele using their testimonials.

❓  See also:   What makes a bad job ad? 7 common pitfalls that put candidates off 🎓 Qualifications needed:  None 📜 Rules and regulations:  None 💵  Cost:  Start from £0

5. Petsitter

We are a nation of animal lovers but we also need to work and like to go on holiday. A pet sitter provides care and companionship to pets while their owners are away. In the UK, the pet care industry is worth an estimated £7 billion and is expected to grow due to increasing pet ownership. The entry requirements for this home business venture are minimal; it mainly requires a love of animals and experience handling them. 

❓ See also: How to start a pet sitting business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: If you are looking after pets in your own home, you will need a licence (but not if you go to the owner’s home) 💵 Cost: Start from £0

6. Massage therapist

Who doesn’t love a good massage? Massage therapists provide therapeutic pummelings to clients to help alleviate pain, tension, and stress. In the UK, the demand for massage therapists is growing, with the industry expected to reach £1.2 billion by 2025 . Needing minimal equipment – a massage bed and your hands! – this is a great business to run from your home. 

❓ See also: Beauty salon equipment and software 🎓 Qualifications needed: Massage therapists in the UK need to hold a Level 3 qualification in massage therapy, such as a VTCT or ITEC diploma, and be registered with a professional body such as the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) 📜 Rules and regulations: You should be registered with a professional body such as the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) 💵 Cost: Start from £30 for a basic massage table

7. Home hairdresser

Whatever the economic climate, hair just keeps on growing. But why pay for a salon and associated overheads (no pun intended) when you can provide hair styling and cutting services to clients in your (or their) own home? Since the pandemic, the home hairdressing industry is on the rise due to its convenience and personalised service. You could start small by doing “dos” for friends and family and use word of mouth and social media to build your clientele. 

❓ See also: How to start a hair stylist business 🎓 Qualifications needed: Hairdressers in the UK need to hold a Level 2 or 3 hairdressing qualification 📜 Rules and regulations: You must register with your local council. 💵 Cost: Start from £15 for basic hairdressing scissors

🤔 Did you know? Female entrepreneurs are finally closing the gender gap when it comes to running a business. According to GoDaddy data, the number of women-led businesses has increased from 36% to 47% within the last 12 months.

8. Tailoring and clothes alterations

If you are a demon at darning or a ninja with a needle, consider offering clothing alterations and repairs to customers. According to GlobalData , the clothes resale market in the UK grew by 149% between 2016 and 2022 and is forecast to rise by 67.5% from 2022 to 2026. As more and more people embrace the fashion circular economy , this means a huge amount of potential customers looking for nipping and tucking. 

❓ See also: How to start a clothes shop 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

9. Music tutor

In the UK, the music education industry is worth an estimated £4.5 billion and is expected to continue growing, driven by an increasing number of enthusiastic music learners of all ages. You don’t need to be a virtuoso violinist but you do need to be able to play your instrument reasonably well and have a quiet space from which to teach and tolerant neighbours – especially drumming tutors! Reading music would be a bonus and plenty of music tutors are self-taught. 

❓ See also: Starting a tutoring business: 5 simple steps 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

10. Airbnb host

The rise of the post-pandemic staycation is here to stay. Whether it’s a peaceful rural retreat in the Cotswolds or an avant-garde flat in the middle of London, AirBnBs are a solid investment as there’ll always be someone out there looking for a holiday. You’ll need to ensure you own your property (or have permission from the owner), cosy up your space, and make sure you have great pictures for your listing. 

❓ See also: How to start a bed and breakfast business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations : Hosts are required to meet certain safety requirements, such as providing smoke alarms and ensuring that gas and electrical appliances are safe, and should check with their insurance provider to see if they need additional coverage for short-term rentals 💵 Cost : Start from £0 (if you already own a property, that is)

11. Customised stationery design

Why should customers settle for boring, run-of-the-mill invitations, announcements and celebration cards when they could have bespoke pieces that reflect their unique style and personalities? The stationery market in the UK is worth a whopping £2bn annually, and the trend for one-of-a-kind items is on the rise. Whether it's a wedding, a birthday bash, or a corporate or community function, you could use your artistic aesthetic to help people make a statement with their stationery.

❓ See also: Letterhead requirements: legal procedures you need to follow 🎓 Qualifications needed: None, but it would be beneficial to have a background in graphic design, as well as an understanding of printing techniques and materials 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £20 for paper and pens at your local stationery store

💪  Top tip: Find out how to transition your personal space to a professional workspace with our handy guide, how to set up a home office .

12. Homemade or artisanal dog treats and snacks

Post-pandemic pooch passion persists! Take advantage of this doggy love by running a homemade artisanal dog treats and snacks business. You could create unique and delicious dog treats and package and market the products from your own kitchen. The UK pet food market is valued at £2.6bn annually, so plenty of opportunity for some canine kerching!

❓ See also: Top business ideas: pet care 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Check basic requirements at gov.uk 💵 Cost: Start from £0

13. Valet service

A valet service provides a range of car-related services, such as parking, cleaning, and maintenance, to customers. In the UK, the carwashing and valet industries are worth over £1 billion, with a projected market size of £9.8 billion by 2025. With no skills and minimal marketing required, this is a great business to run from your home (or the street outside to be more precise). 

❓ See also: How to start a car valeting business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: You should follow environmental and health and safety regulations, such as obtaining a trade effluent consent (trade effluent is any liquid waste that’s discharged into our sewers from a business, industrial or trade process) 💵 Cost: Start from £50 for cleaning products and equipment

14. Takeaway service

Forget the image of a traditional takeaway with flock wallpaper and an over-handled bowl of mints. These days, a takeaway service can involve providing home-cooked meals and drinks for customers to consume off-premises or catering for functions and events. The current UK takeaway sector is worth over £4.9 billion, and the industry is expected to continue growing due to the increasing popularity of delivery services. So if you’ve got a kitchen that can handle cooking in quantities and a talent for tasty tidbits, this could be a venture for you.

❓ See also: Best takeaway POS systems 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: You will need to register with your local council's environmental health service, follow food hygiene regulations, and comply with allergen labelling requirements 💵 Cost: £0

15. Vegan candle maker

According to a report by The Vegan Society , the vegan lifestyle market in the UK is now worth over £3.5 billion, and the demand for vegan products, including candles, is growing rapidly. This is a super easy business to set up and you can sell your offerings at local markets, fairs and gift shops or go the ecommerce route and sell online.

❓ See also: The 6 best ecommerce platforms for small businesses 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

16. Plant rental service

Yes, you read correctly. Plant rental services are a thing. A plant rental service offers the rental of indoor plants to offices, homes, and events for decoration and air-purifying purposes and is a great home-based idea for the green-fingered. You will probably require some suitable outside space though unless you want your living room to resemble a jungle. 

❓ See also: Top business ideas: wellbeing 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

17. Crafter

As with vegan candle making, whether you’re a perfect potter, a master mason, or wondrous at woodwork, you can make your wares at home and sell them. However, passing on your skills could also be a great new business opportunity. The popularity of craft workshops and craft teaching – whether in real life or virtually – has dramatically risen, fuelled by Gen Zers who want to reconnect with the physical, manual world. Your crafting skills could be a crafty little money-spinner. 

❓ See also: Business ideas for 2020: craft teaching 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

18. Antique dealer

If you’re a connoisseur of antiques or a history nerd, dealing with antiques could be your next entrepreneurial project. However, keep in mind this one is trickier than the average trade. Whilst the Antiques Roadshow may paint a rosy picture of what the business is like, in reality, it involves lots of detective work, patience, and arduous competition.  It’s definitely a tough venture to launch, but with the right marketing and negotiating skills, you’ll be able to set yourself up for success. 

❓ See also: How to start an antique business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0, however, if you’re looking for a specialist niche, collecting all your merchandise could take months and has high upfront costs (£25,000-35,000)

19. Pet clothing designer

A pet clothing designer creates fashionable and/or functional clothing for pets. This can include anything from doggy dresses to cat coats. In the UK, pet owners spend an average of £70 a month on their pets, according to a study by American Express . The study also found that 43% of pet owners would be willing to spend up to £50 on a luxury pet accessory. Obviously an interest in animals and fashion would be a good starting point here – and there’s a lot of competition – but our love affair with our pets isn’t going away anytime soon.

❓ See also: How to start a clothing line 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

20. Offer lodgings

This idea is as old as the hills but fantastic as a home business nonetheless, providing you own your own property and have a spare room. More and more people are resorting to renting a room in a private home as it makes financial sense with rents skyrocketing. Plus, many more workers need a city pied-a-terre when commuting from the countryside. However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that because it’s your home, you can do what you like. Do implement a tenancy contract agreement and make sure you don’t fall foul of the rules and regs. 

❓ See also: How to become a landlord 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: There are a host of rules and regulations that you will need to comply with. Landlords offering Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) must obtain a licence from their local council; all accommodation must be safe and provide maintained smoke detectors, electrical wiring, and gas appliances. Landlords are also required to protect any deposit paid by the tenant in a government-approved scheme. These are just some of the main rules and regulations for offering lodging in the UK, but landlords should also check with their local council to ensure that they are complying with any additional requirements specific to their area 💵 Cost: You will need to own a home in order to start this business, as it will include the expense of your mortgage payments, utility bills, insurance, taxes, and maintenance costs. Additionally, if you plan to provide additional services or amenities such as breakfast, cleaning services, or laundry facilities, these will also incur additional costs

21. Business development caller

Let’s call a spade a spade. A business development or “cold” caller is essentially someone employed to make an unsolicited phone call to a potential customer to sell products or services. Whilst we all know how annoying these calls can be, there’s a reason they still happen – they work. And that’s where you come in. You can start a business as a “cold” caller from the warmth and comfort of your own home. Entry requirements are low level – a courteous telephone manner and bags of resilience will see you right. 

❓ See also: Small business telemarketing services 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0 although you will need a phone and to decide with your client how your bill will be paid

22. Home personal trainer

A home personal trainer provides fitness training and coaching services to clients who want all the benefits of a gym without all the other muscly, sweaty people. The UK fitness industry is worth over £5 billion, and it is projected to continue growing due to the increasing awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle. So with tons of potential trainees out there, this idea is ideal for someone who already loves fitness and has some equipment at home. 

❓ See also: How to start a personal trainer business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

23. Laundry service

If you’ve got a washing machine and are fabulous at folding, this could be a simple and lucrative business to start and run from your home. With the rising demand for convenience and time-saving services, plus the growing number of people renting out their places via sites like Airbnb, there are piles and piles of dirty laundry that need outsourcing. According to a report by IBISWorld , the UK laundry and dry-cleaning industry is currently worth over £3 billion. Get your wedge of the washing pile pie by offering specialist services such as green cleans or delicates days. 

❓ See also: Startups Awards finalist Laundryheap raises £2m to hit £17m valuation 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

what are the best business ideas in london

Having bootstrapped the business since its inception, along with being new mothers and both working full-time, Carol Lathbridge and Lola Cawood faced a huge amount of challenges.

24. Ironing service

All you need to get this business started is an iron and an ironing board. As people get busier and seek more and more convenience, plus the AirBnB market grows, there’s a huge demand for pressed work clothes and wrinkle-free bedding. This may also be a complimentary add-on to a laundry or cleaning service. 

❓ See also: Laundry start-up ihateironing.com bags £120,000 investment 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

25. Gardener

A great side hustle if you don’t mind getting your hands dirty – people always need lawns mowing, shrubs pruning and leaves clearing. You can start small and as your confidence and expertise grows, acquire equipment and offer landscaping services too. There’s no requirement for formal training but some knowledge of plants would be useful. According to a report by AMA Research , the UK landscaping services market is worth over £5 billion, and it is projected to continue growing due to the increasing demand for maintenance of commercial and communal outdoor spaces. 

❓ See also: How to become a gardener 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

📝 Good to know: Even if you are running your business from home , you still need to register as self-employed for tax purposes.

🖥️ Online small business ideas

An online business is any venture that can be run entirely from your laptop or computer. With little to no startup costs, the rewards of virtual ventures can be huge. Plus, the opportunities are only getting bigger as online shopping becomes the norm.

Over 80% of the UK population makes ecommerce purchases – that means over four in every five UK consumers are digital buyers. By 2025, the penetration rate among the country's consumers is expected to reach 90%!

And the benefits of starting an online business are manifold. From the flexibility to work from anywhere at any time, to lower overhead costs compared to traditional brick-and-mortar businesses, here are some easy e-commerce enterprise ideas to get you excited. 

💪  Top tip: There are regulations for selling online that we recommend you check out before creating a website or selling to customers, so that you are covered legally.

26. Personalised apparel

Personalised t-shirts and sneakers are popular – the appeal lies in your customer being able to purchase something that is impossible to get anywhere else. Customers could come to you with their customisation ideas or use your artistic vision to provide them with something original and unique. Personalising takes artistic interest and skill, but with some good online reviews and a popping Instagram or TikTok account, you can gain a reputation fast for creating upcycled, limited edition and bespoke products. 

❓ See also: The ultimate guide to dropshipping: what is it and is it worth it? 🎓Qualifications needed: None 📜Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £3-20 per item, depending on your type of apparel, design complexity and quantities ordered

27. Online tutoring

With the pandemic wreaking havoc on children’s education, online tutoring has never been more sought after for filling in the academic gaps. If you’re highly qualified in a particular subject, or have previous experience working with kids, then you already have a major tick off your checklist. While it’s not necessary to be a fully qualified teacher, you should still have a thorough understanding of the UK education system and the school curriculum, which you can research via gov.uk . And marketing costs are minimal – word of mouth amongst satisfied (and competitive!) parents works wonders here. 

❓ See also: How to start a tutoring business 🎓Qualifications needed: There is no requirement for qualifications to become a tutor. However, if you want to tutor people for accredited education, a degree relative to the level you want to teach at would be appropriate if teaching children 📜Rules and regulations: None but a valid DBS certificate is preferable 💵 Cost: Start from £0

28. Baby sleep consultant

Help exhausted parents get their babies to sleep like a …well….baby. You may want to get yourself professionally trained before you offer up this service or just take advantage of your own experience of bawling babies and teething toddlers. Either way, there are plenty of sleep-deprived parents looking for tailored training programmes or bespoke consultations.

❓ See also: Hello Baby: Trevor Ginn 🎓Qualifications needed: As it stands, sleep consulting is not a regulated profession, but taking some health and safety courses at the minimum would help with competency and credibility 📜Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

Happity Startups 100 2023 DEI winner

Created by parents, for parents, Happity is the UK's biggest finding and booking platform for baby and toddler classes.

29. Digital decluttering service

Are you scared to open your inbox because of 8 million unread emails? Or have you wasted hours looking for a file on your computer that you know is there but you can’t find? If the answer is no, you should become a digital declutterer! This online service helps people and other small businesses organise their digital assets, increasingly important as more of our personal and professional lives move online. You can charge for services hourly or per task but should be well-versed in maintaining a tidy online space. 

❓ See also: Best project management software for small businesses 🎓Qualifications needed: None 📜Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

30. Dropshipping

Dropshipping is a method of business where you commission suppliers to ‘drop’ shipments to your customers' doorsteps on your behalf. You don’t have to stock or keep track of inventory, so no extra costs for hiring a warehouse or surrendering your living room to a ton of boxes and packaging materials. All you really have to do is promote your business and build your audience. That said, dropshipping isn’t without its drawbacks – chiefly, dealing with returns and refunds. Plus, choosing a reliable and trustworthy third-party supplier can be the difference between making a profit or going bust. But it’s definitely one of the easiest, quickest and cheapest businesses to start. 

❓ See also: The ultimate guide to dropshipping: what is it and is it worth it? 🎓Qualifications needed: None 📜Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

31. Copywriting

Copywriting is the practice of creating original copy that helps a client achieve a particular goal – usually to persuade customers to buy or use a product or service and therefore increase sales. This could be anything from product descriptions detailing the key features and benefits of an item or service to flyers, social media content and more. Clearly a good grasp of written English is necessary, as well as basic human psychology as you'll need to understand what motivates your intended audience. 

❓ See also: How to become a freelance copywriter 🎓Qualifications needed: None, other than a reasonable knowledge of spelling and grammar 📜Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

32. Web designer

Web designers use website-building platforms as well as their own creative vision and coding skills to create websites for clients who don’t have the know-how or desire to do it themselves. With more and more people deciding to start their own businesses or side hustles, there’s a huge demand for user-friendly, professional-looking websites at reasonable prices. 

❓ See also: Best easy website builders for small businesses 🎓Qualifications needed: None but an understanding of HTML, CSS and Javascript, a basic knowledge of web programming and web design applications such as Adobe Dreamweaver would be useful 📜Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

33. App Developer

Mobile apps generated over $935 billion in revenue in 2023 which means this is a great virtual venture for tech-savvy individuals. You’ll need the ability to write computer programs and have abundant analytical thinking skills. You can either operate as a freelancer for hire or come up with your own app ideas to develop and sell. 

❓ See also: Top business ideas: personal health apps 🎓 Qualifications needed: None although an undergraduate degree in computer science would be helpful 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

what are the best business ideas in london

As the winner of the 2023 Startups 100 Index, Caura is a vehicle management solution that aims to empower the UK’s 30 million drivers.

34. Social media manager

Are you a social butterfly of the digital world? Could you turn your addiction to Insta and love of likes to financial gain?  From creating killer content to tracking analytics, social media managers are the virtual masterminds behind all those viral tweets, insta-posts, and Facebook rants. They know how to attract an audience, engage with them, and build a community around a brand. And with over 80% of UK businesses now vying for attention online according to Statista , the demand for these online media mavens is higher than ever. It’s a worthwhile venture to pursue and if you love connecting with people and are good at data wrangling. 

❓ See also: What is social media marketing: the ultimate guide 🎓 Qualifications needed : None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: £0

35. Affiliate marketer

Put simply, affiliate marketing is the promotion of someone else’s product by yourself, in return for a small commission on each sale made. Basically, you’re a middle person. Ideally, to get started you’ll already have a blog, active social media following or website that brings customers in to click on your affiliate link so that you earn commission. Commission rates can vary a lot – anything from 5 to 50% – but the good news is that  affiliate marketing revenue has been steadily rising by 10% each year, according to stats from Streamline advertising group. Some of the UK’s top affiliate platforms include Commission Junction (CJ Affiliate), Amazon Associates and Shopify affiliate programme. Don’t believe all the hype though. There are as many affiliate marketer zeroes as heroes. 

❓ See also: Affiliate Marketing: how does it work and is it worth it? 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Check the UK's advertising regulator, the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) guidelines: affiliate marketing communications must be clearly identifiable as such and must comply with data protection and privacy laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 💵 Cost: Start from £0

36. Selling eBooks

If you have a story to tell or expert knowledge in a subject – cooking, self-help, photography, poetry or the next great novel – then writing an ebook can be a brilliant and cheap business idea. Although it could cost you a lot of time, financial overheads are next to nothing. You can sell your book via third-party providers – principally, Amazon – or via your own online store. If you really want to guarantee sales before pushing on, you could always arrange a pre-sale, or start a crowdfunding campaign to drum up interest in your virtual tome. 

❓ See also: How to start a bookshop 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0 

37. Proofreader / editor

From books to documents to websites, proofreaders are in continual high demand because all industries produce written content that needs reviewing for the appropriate professionalism, accuracy and tone of voice. Ideally, this is an online venture for someone with a qualification or background in English or journalism but it’s not essential as long as you can polish prose  to perfection and know how to mind your ps and qs. 

❓ See also: How to become a freelance copywriter 🎓 Qualifications needed: None, but it would be helpful to familiarise yourself with style guides such as the Oxford or AP Style and Grammar Guidelines 💵 Cost: Start from £0

38. Online personal stylist

If friends and family are always trying to steal your style, maybe you should consider selling it rather than giving it away for free. All this virtual venture requires is a simple website with some signature looks and a range of style interventions from creating a one-off look for a special event to revamping a work wardrobe or helping a hoarder clear out their closet. So if you have a flair for fashion and want to turn your passion into a paycheck, personal styling might just be the perfect fit for you.

❓ See also: Sustainable fashion: trends and opportunities 🎓 Qualifications needed: None, but some personal stylists pursue formal education in fashion and styling. The cost of studying for a degree in fashion can range from £9,250 to £38,000 per year, depending on the university and course 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: £0

39. Blogger

One of the easiest and cheapest ideas to get off the ground, the beauty of blogging is that you can talk about a topic you are genuinely already interested in. The trick is to pick a topic that other people are interested in too. That way you can build a following and monetise via affiliate marketing or sponsored content. You will need your own website plus some knowledge of SEO and keyword research if you want to make sure you get eyes on your pages but this can be self-taught. In fact, there are plenty of blogs on it!  

❓ See also: Personal branding explained – plus how to create a personal brand 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost : Start from £0

40. Stock photographer

If you've got a camera, a steady hand and a good eye, you could be well on your way to making some serious cash online through stock photography. All you need to do is upload your images to a stock website – such as Alamy or Shutterstock – who’ll licence your photos to their clients for a fee. The good news? This is passive income! Stock photos can earn you anything from £50 to £500 for 1000+ high-quality pictures per month. Lifestyle and landscape shots are always popular. 

❓ See also: How to start a photography business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Dependent on which stock website you choose but always seek permission from people and premises you capture 💵 Cost: £25 for a basic camera

41. Online yoga instructor

Not only will you get to stay healthy and fit with this business idea, but you'll also be spreading good vibes and spiritual wellness to others. And the best part? You can make some serious cash doing it! Whether you're looking for a part-time gig or a full-time career, you can make this work for you as your online audience grows. 

❓ See also: How to become a yoga instructor 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Yoga in the UK is unregulated 💵 Cost: The Yoga Alliance is an organisation that provides yoga teacher certification and sets standards for yoga teacher training programs in the UK. To register as a teacher you'll need to pay an annual membership fee, which can range from £40 to £115 depending on your level of certification. It’s also important to get limited liability insurance to protect yourself in case of any accidents or injuries that may occur during your classes, and that typically ranges from £50 to £150 per year

42. Virtual Assistant

A super simple startup for a super-organised individual. As a virtual assistant you could offer your services to schedule appointments, manage diaries, make and take phone calls, plan travel and manage email and social media accounts for a whole variety of small business clients whom you'll never need to meet. All this admin can take place online! You can decide whether to charge per hour or day, task or project. 

❓ See also: How to become a virtual assistant 🎓 Qualifications needed: None, but a good grasp of basic English and maths plus some computing skills will be very helpful 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: £0

43. Teach English as a foreign language

The demand to learn English – as THE international language – has been and will always be high. The best part is that you can teach all of your lessons online – so there are no overheads for travel or classroom costs. To get started, your native language ideally needs to be English, and an accredited TEFL course will also be required before you start taking on students. You can expect to earn £15 per hour teaching English online, although as you grow your client base and become more reputable, you can increase your fees and charge a much higher rate (up to £40 per hour).

❓ See also: How to start a tutoring business 🎓 Qualifications needed: TEFL courses can range in price, but you'll likely be spending between £75 to £250 on a course depending on the level and hours involved. Although a bachelor’s degree isn’t necessarily a requirement, it will help you attract clients as the market is quite competitive and a degree could set you apart from other teachers 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

44. Finfluencer

Eschewing old-school banking institutions, there’s a growing trend for Millennials and Gen Zers to rely on social media stars for money matters. These financial influencers share their knowledge and expertise on all things personal finance that resonate with 18-25 year olds, from paying off student loans to buying a flat and making their first investment. In fact, according to a recent report by Hootsuite, a whopping 27% of adults in the UK follow at least one financial influencer on social media. If you think you are able to provide financial information and education in an entertaining and engaging way (and have the authority and expertise to do so), this could be for you. 

❓ See also: How to make money as a social media influencer 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Check with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) before endorsing any financial services or products 💵 Cost: Start from £0

45. Virtual interior designer

Did you know that the interior design industry in the UK is worth a whopping £8 billion? That's a lot of feature walls and colour pop pillows! A virtual interior designer offers services through an online platform using tech to showcase samples and options without stepping foot in a client’s house. You will need an online portfolio, computer skills and some kind of virtual design software. 

❓ See also: How to start an interior design franchise 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

💳 Side hustle small business ideas

If you want to earn extra income or turn your passion into a profitable venture, side hustling could be for you. A side hustle is a business you operate while holding down your day job, so you can keep the safety of a salary while giving yourself time to build your confidence and company. 

According to current stats, 46% of people in Britain are making a second income. The surge is in no small part due to the pandemic and the current economic downturn, with the report estimating that the side hustle economy is now worth around £346 bn. This trend is likely to continue as more people embrace the flexibility and financial independence that part-time entrepreneurship offers. 

💪 Top tip: Need to make some extra cash? Now’s the time to push your hobby or skills. Here’s the full guide on how to start a side hustle .

46. Reselling clothes

With Gen Z shoppers leading the sustainable fashion and vintage shopping charge, reselling clothes is a great way to target younger audiences and make some extra cash. Apps like Depop and Vinted make the process of setting up a vintage online store painless meaning there’s a low barrier to entry.  All you’ll really need is a smartphone, popping pics of your items, and some social media marketing savviness. Predictions estimate that the resale market will grow 127% by 2026 , so hopping on the clothes resale bandwagon could be a smart side hustle bet with plenty of hacks to keep you on the right side of HMRC.

❓ See also: Sustainable fashion: trends and opportunities 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

47. Voiceover artist

Could your smooth and sultry tones be your side hustle? You could offer your voice for a range of media, including TV, film, and video games. According to data from industry body AudioUK , the UK audio sector grew by 11% in 2019, with voiceover work making up a significant portion of this growth. It’s super easy to get started – all you need is a portfolio and your dulcet tones. 

❓ See also: Business ideas for 2020: podcasting 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

48. Dogwalker

Post-pandemic pooches need walking now their owners are back in the office! It’s a real shame for man’s best friend, but the perfect business opportunity for canine-loving cash seekers. The entry requirements for this business venture are minimal; it mainly requires a love of dogs, experience handling them and some good walking boots, as you'll be doing a lot of walking! Your main costs are going to be insurance and either some printed flyers or social media advertising. This won’t cost you more than a few hundred quid. Considering you can charge up to £20 an hour, there’s good money to be made.

❓ See also: How to start a dog walking business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: You’ll need to be aware of a few rules and regulations, including the legal requirement for dogs to wear leads at all times and your obligation to pick up their mess 💵 Cost: £80-150 per year for liability insurance

🐱 Did you know? 34% of UK households own a cat in the United Kingdom, meaning there’s a large market you can tap into if you're a pet-loving side hustler.

49. Upcycling

Turning trash into treasure can be a viable side hustle business venture if you’re creative and great at DIY. Take any unwanted object and transform it into something that someone else needs, wants or likes the look of. The key is knowing where to sell handmade items locally or online. It’s great if you’re looking for a sustainable business that has a low barrier to entry – after all, there is no wait for products to get made or sampled. Have a look on sites such as Etsy for inspiration. 

❓ See also: Top business trends: sustainability 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

50. Babysitting

With parents busy in the office or couples that simply want a night away from their kids, babysitting will always be a viable business idea if you don’t mind working with young ones. The start-up costs are pretty low – the largest investment you’ll probably make is a website or some flyers to advertise your services. You’ll also need to have a rough understanding of what the hourly rates for babysitting are so that you can be competitive in the market. 

❓ See also: How to become a childminder 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

📝Good to know: In 2021, 69% of families in England with children aged 0 to 14 had used some form of childcare during their most recent term-time week.

51. Language tutoring

As the job market gets more competitive, people are looking to diversify and strengthen their language skills. Plus, parents are always looking to improve their kids’ GCSE and A-level grades. So if you are fluent in French or a native Nigerian speaker, tutoring languages can be a strong side hustle – you can charge from. £24–£28 per hour. Craigslist and similar websites are excellent places to market your tutoring business, often signing up and posting an ad is free. Don’t forget there may also be people (and businesses) out there looking for English language tuition too.

❓ See also: Best easy website builders for small businesses 🎓 Qualifications needed: None but bilingual proficiency or written and oral fluency in the language being taught is preferable 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

52. Videographer

Freelance videography can be a great avenue to make some extra money if you’re good with cameras and editing, but you will need some equipment which can be costly. However, you’ll have a broad market since clients can range from individuals – think events such as weddings and parties – to businesses that want to use videos for marketing. Do specialise so you can perfect your style and your showreel – essential if you want people to know about your side hustle. 

❓ See also: How to use YouTube for business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

86% of marketing professionals reported that they used video as a marketing tool so there’s huge scope for regular work.

53. Urban beekeeping

Nurture bees in the city and harvest honey, beeswax, and other bee-related products to sell yourself or to local stores and businesses. In the UK, the number of beekeepers has increased by 25% in the last five years, according to the British Beekeepers Association . And the good news? You don’t necessarily need a garden or green space. Many successful side hustlers who live in apartment blocks are able to keep bees on their buildings’ flat roofs. 

❓ See also: Business ideas for 2020: urban farming 🎓Qualifications needed: It is recommended that new beekeepers attend a training course to learn the skills and knowledge needed to keep bees safely and effectively 📜Rules and regulations: All beekeepers in the UK must register with the National Bee Unit (NBU) to comply with the law. Registration is free and can be done online. Hives should be clearly marked with the beekeeper's contact information, so they can be identified in case of any issues or emergencies, and placed at a safe distance from public areas 💵 Cost: You will need to purchase beekeeping equipment such as hives, frames, smokers, and protective clothing, as well as bees to populate your hives. To get started, you will likely need around £750-2000

54. Tarot card consultancy

Whether you believe in it or not, there are customers out there who are looking for solace in what Tarot cards reveal. Although traditionally tarot card readings happen face-to-face, there’s been a rising demand for readings on Zoom, WhatsApp or FaceTime. Whilst no qualifications or accreditation is strictly necessary if you are offering the service professionally (as opposed to just for friends and family) you may find a course gives you everything you need to know from the history of Tarot to tips on how to respond to individual concerns. 

❓ See also: The side-hustle effect: meet those running successful side gigs 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: A pack of tarot cards can cost as little as £2.98

55. House-sitting

People need to leave their houses (and pets and plants) unattended for short or longer periods of time whether for business or pleasure. House-sitters allay the anxiety of an unattended home. There are no real operational costs apart from maybe a bit of marketing to ensure homeowners know about your services. That said, you do need a responsible attitude and organised nature to make sure the property is kept secure and be sure to deal with any emergencies such as break-ins or floods.  

❓ See also: Running a business from a rented property 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

56. Market stallholder

Market stalls are an excellent, low-budget way if you have a product to test or a brand to launch. Whether you want to set up a permanent stand or focus on ad hoc, open-air markets, stalls are a quick and mobile way of giving your brand and products exposure and seeing if people actually want them! The main thing to be wary of is your profit margin, as you’ll need to source your products and research your market to make sure that you can do more than just break even. In this way, having a market stall is also really helpful in determining your pricing strategy .

❓ See also: How to start a market stall 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Dependent on the specific market 💵 Cost: Start from £0

57. Jewellery maker

Whether it’s fine or fashion, jewellery making is a side hustle that fits those part-time entrepreneurs who are adept with stones, silver and soldering. You can choose to sell your items online (make sure your photos are dazzling!) or at weekend markets or local retail stores. There’s lots of flexibility (and courses for beginners), but you’ll just need to be careful to balance out the cost of your materials and equipment with the profit made from sales. 

❓ See also: How to start a jewellery business

🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Check health and safety considerations for making and selling jewellery, for example EU REACH chemical standards still apply post-Brexit 💵 Cost: Start from £0 to thousands depending on supplies and equipment

💪 Top tip: Is the price right? How much you decide to charge for your product or service is a make-or-break for your business idea. Head to our guide to pricing strategies to find out all you need to know.

58. Online paid surveys

Businesses are always looking for customer feedback to improve their services. However, the average Joe isn’t exactly keen to answer multiple-choice questions just out of goodwill. Therefore, companies will pay money to survey takers to get the feedback they need.  You can choose how many surveys you want to take and when, making this side hustle extremely flexible. Individual payouts, however, can be low. But when you complete multiple surveys across several sites, you can earn up to £800 a year. In general, surveys will pay around £6-9 per hour and your best bet is to sign up with several agencies as they will shout out for specific demographics and interests.  

❓ See also: Customer needs: how to identify and meet them 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Laptop or personal computer (£500-£1000)

59. Repair person

If you are handy with a hammer, swish with a spanner and fond of fixing things? Then offering up your DIY skills to people with household problems or small projects might be the side hustle for you. Start off with friends and family and you’ll soon find you’ll have referrals galore. You could charge an hourly rate of £20 or a daily rate of £120, and offer your repair expertise and bookings online via local community forums or your own website.  

❓ See also: Starting a car repair business: what you need to know to open a garage 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None for basic fixes but be mindful of qualifications necessary for any electrical or heating repairs 💵 Cost: Start from £0

60. Car washing

Car washing can be a lucrative side hustle. It’s estimated that there are over 20,000 car washes operating in the UK. Key factors to consider will be how specialised you want the service to be (deep cleans, waxing etc), where you’re going to be based, and the quality and cost of your equipment. There can be heavy upfront costs when setting the business up, alongside electricity and water. However, considering around 25.6 million people in the country own a car, you have a pretty large market to cater to. 

❓ See also: GoWashMyCar Ltd: Adam Matthecka 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £20 for basic cleaning equipment

61. Selling prints

If you’ve got a knack for graphic design, a quick and easy small business idea is to sell your prints. Whether they appear on a tote bag or on a mug, you can easily set up an ecommerce store or page on Etsy to sell your designs. Although there are some significant upfront costs like buying high-quality paper (if you’re selling posters) and an at-home office printer, the rest of the production is relatively cheap and straightforward. If you want a business that showcases your creative talents,  this might be the one for you.

❓ See also: Marketing for ecommerce businesses: strategies and tips for success 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £30 for a basic printer and £20 for paper

62. Quiz runner

Who doesn’t love a pub quiz? According to YouGov data, 62% of Brits do! So this time-honoured trivia tradition can now be monetised and turned into a business. All you’ll need is some quiz questions (these could be on pop culture, sport, music or anything!), a bit of banter and of course a venue looking for a host. 

❓ See also: Best small business printers 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

Are you a party animal that can keep the floor filled with your banging beats? Maybe you could use your magic at mixing to start a DJ business. To take off, you’ll need to invest in a DJ set, promote yourself on social media, and create a website so people can book you for events. As you put on a good show – whether at parties, weddings, bar mitzvahs or work dos  – and recommendations travel through word of mouth, you’ll get more bookings and potentially make a stable income.

❓ See also: What is social media marketing: the ultimate guide 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

💪 Top tip: So many side hustle businesses would benefit from a website to market or sell products or services. To get you started, why not check out our review of the nine best free ecommerce platforms for small businesses?

64. Curbside composter

Green waste is no longer just waste – it can be a source of revenue. The best part is that as you develop your business venture you’ll also be taking care of the environment by ensuring that waste is properly recycled and doesn’t end up in a landfill. Did you know that 28% of waste deposited in landfills can be composted?  You’ll have a wide target audience as garden centres, landscaping companies, and common-or-garden gardeners all use composts to inject life into their gardens. Plus, the startup costs are minimal as you can DIY a lot of the materials to compost, base the business at home and get your local community to contribute their green waste too.

🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £20 for a basic composter

65. Dating app profile consultant

Hate them or love them, dating apps are here to stay as the most convenient and streamlined solution to meeting your match. However, with such an active market of daters, polishing up your profile so it stands out in a sea of fish can be the crucial difference between someone swiping right or not. If you think you can advise those seeking a soulmate on how to improve their images and copy – diplomatically! – then this could be a great side hustle for you.  The upfront costs are quite low as you’ll mainly need to set up a website and advertise yourself as the ultimate Cupid. As long as you do your research, and can transform swipes into dates (and maybe more), you’ll be able to build up credibility and get yourself more clients. 

❓ See also: How to start an online dating business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Around £100-1000 for the cost of a phone with internet access or a laptop

66. Car boot sale trader

Selling unwanted items from the back of your car can be a quick and easy way to make extra cash. The upfront costs are low since all you need is your car, your stock and a card reader. However, the trick is understanding how to pitch to sell and where to set yourself up to ensure as many passers-by see your store-cum-car boot! As long as you remain organised and preempt customer pain points (like bringing bags for big spenders and change for cash buyers) be prepared to drive back home with an empty trunk. 

❓ See also: The best fuel cards for small businesses 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £10 for the cost of a pitch

67. Personal organiser

A personal organiser is a professional who helps clients declutter and organise their living spaces, often working on tasks such as rearranging belongings more practically, creating storage solutions, and developing systems to maintain order. They may also provide guidance on time management and productivity. According to a survey by the Association of Professional Declutterers and Organisers (APDO), there has been a significant increase in demand for professional organising services in the UK. The survey found that 85% of respondents had seen a rise in inquiries in the past year, and 70% reported that their client base had expanded. The study also revealed that the average fee charged by a personal organiser in the UK is £40-£50 per hour. So, a lucrative side-line for those whose drawers are already tidy. 

❓ See also: 7 best project management methodologies for small business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

68. Mystery shopper

Whilst you would be hard-pressed to make a full-time living from this on its own, masquerading as a real shopper is a great way to earn some extra money. Although the tasks will vary from job to job, you’ll normally be told what to buy, the questions you need to ask employees, the photographs to take, and other things to look out for like cleanliness and lighting. If you’re not keen on physically going to a store, you can also do mystery shopping by phone or email, making it a super flexible option for a side hustle.

❓ See also: Local shopping boom expected to outlast pandemic, surveys show 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

69. Equipment rental

Equipment rental has a large market and what you offer can vary from party supplies and filming gear to large tool rentals and heavy catering machinery. The great part about this business model is your equipment can be making money whilst you are doing something else.  It requires minimal labour as all you’re doing is picking up and dropping off equipment.  However, there may be a significant upfront investment, especially if what you’re supplying is expensive. The upside is that there will be stable demand as lots of customers are looking to simply borrow equipment rather than make a big investment in things they won’t use again.

❓ See also: The best accounting software for small businesses 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

70. Woman (or man) with a van

A woman (or man) with a van is a self-employed service that helps customers move items, make deliveries, and carry out one-off transportation jobs. The idea is that it’s a flexible option for clients as the service can be offered on short notice at a competitive rate. You can tap into the removals, house clearance, and deliveries market.  The upfront costs are quite low, especially if you already own a van, although fuel expenses could quickly pile up. However, if you have repeat customers and a good supply of bookings, your van could have you speeding towards a successful side hustle venture. 

❓ See also: Recession proof business ideas 🎓 Qualifications needed: A valid driving licence 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

71. Caricature artist

A caricature artist creates humorous drawings of people that exaggerate certain features. These cartoon-like creations are a growing trend at weddings, corporate dos and community events as well as being commissioned online. If you are nifty with a nib and can spare some free time to draw and sell virtually or attend venues in person, according to a survey by Bark.com, the average price of a caricature artist in the UK is £130 per hour! 

❓ See also: How to make an online portfolio 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: £30-200 to get started with art supplies

72. Pop-up shop

A pop-up shop is a temporary retail space that is set up by a brand or individual for a short period of time, usually ranging from a few days to a few weeks. These shops are often located in high-traffic areas such as shopping malls, markets, or city centres, and are used to showcase products or services. Excellent for those not yet ready to fully commit to their side-hustle, pop-up shops can be used for various purposes, such as introducing a new product line, promoting a brand, testing a new market, or generating buzz and excitement around a particular event or season. According to a report by Popup Republic , the UK pop-up industry is worth around £2.3 billion.

❓ See also: How to set up a pop-up shop in four simple steps 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

73. Musician for hire

A musician for hire provides live music for events such as weddings or parties or corporate events.  In addition to being a skilled musician, you must also be able to handle the business side of things – including negotiating fees, contracts, and managing your own schedule – as well as some potentially anti-social hours. You can work alone or make sweet music with some other like-minded instrumentalists. According to a report by the Musicians' Union , the average musician in the UK earns around £23,000 per year.

❓ See also: How to start a record label 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

74. Mobile detailing service

A mobile detailing service cleans the exterior and interior of a car at the customer's location. According to a survey by the AA , the average car owner in the UK spends around £162 per year on car detailing so there is money to be made here from people’s desire for cleanliness and convenience. That said, you will need a mode of transport to get you and your equipment to and from jobs plus a website so customers can make bookings. According to Airtasker, you can charge from £37-183 depending on car size which means a sizable profit per clean.

❓ See also: How to start a car valeting business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £100 for transportable vacuum and cleaning materials

75. Rent out your car

Renting out your car to others through a peer-to-peer car-sharing platform can be a profitable business. According to a survey by Turo , car owners in the UK can earn an average of £130 per week by renting out their vehicles. This could work well if you only use your car at the weekends, for instance, and find regulars who want to borrow it for weekday commitments. 

❓ See also: Vehicle tracking costs for businesses 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: These will vary depending on which platform you use 💵 Cost: Start from £0

76. Ghost kitchen

In spite of its name, there’s nothing supernatural or spooky about a ghost kitchen. Instead, it’s just a kitchen facility that prepares food exclusively for delivery through third-party apps such as Deliveroo or Uber Eats. According to a report by Euromonitor , the UK food delivery market is worth around £8.6 billion and you can have a slice of that pie if you have the cooking or baking skills and access to a kitchen. 

❓ See also: How to start a takeaway business from home 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: As with home baking, you will need to follow food hygiene and safety regulations, such as registering with your local council and obtaining a food hygiene certificate 💵 Cost: Start from £0

77. Drone videographer

A drone videographer is a professional who captures aerial footage using a drone. They are skilled in operating drones equipped with high-quality cameras to capture stunning visuals from above. Drone videography is becoming increasingly popular in a variety of industries, including real estate, advertising, tourism, and filmmaking. According to a report by PwC , the drone industry is estimated to be worth £42 billion by 2030, and drone-related services are expected to create more than 628,000 jobs in the UK.

❓ See also: How to start a production company 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: You will need to follow the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)’s regulations. Insurance will also be important, as it will cover you for potential damages or accidents that could occur during filming. You must also obtain a drone pilot certification from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which ranges from £1000-3000 💵 Cost: The cost of drone equipment can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds, depending on the type of drone, camera, and other accessories you need

78. Custom 3D printing service

Running a custom 3D printing service involves using specialised software and equipment to create customised 3D objects for clients. The process typically involves designing the object in 3D modelling software, converting it into a printable file format, and then printing it using a 3D printer.

❓ See also: 3D printing company Robox secures £280,000 seed funding on Kickstarter 🎓Qualifications needed: None, but you will need to have a strong understanding of 3D printing technology and be able to work closely with clients to understand their design needs and create high-quality 3D prints 📜Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: The cost of a 3D printer can range from a few hundred pounds for an entry-level desktop printer, to tens of thousands of pounds for high-end industrial printers. You will also need to consider the cost of 3D modelling software, materials, and other equipment such as scanners and post-processing tools

79. Alternative funeral planner

For decades, the death services industry has been short on innovation and big on expensive fees and complex admin. Post-pandemic, however, things have shifted. Forget a formal ceremony, you can now enjoy a burial in woodland or at sea, or even an “aquamation” (as requested by Sir Desmond Tutu), an environmentally friendly cremation alternative that uses water, heat and an alkali to dispose of the body. For those that want their funeral to take place in a particular manner or location that represents them, you could offer alternative burial or cremation services (apparently one recently took place in a McDonalds drive thru). 

❓ See also: Best business ideas: easing life’s hard decisions 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Check government and local council requirements 💵 Cost: Start from £0

80. Cremation keepsake maker

As personalised funeral planning becomes increasingly sought after, customers are looking for personalised designs that they can use to store the remains of a loved one. Whether you're a jewellery designer, florist or carpenter, turn your talents to help someone create a cherished keepsake that will celebrate the life of the deceased. There are already some beautiful memorial methods, including growing a tree or making fireworks from ashes into bespoke urns. 

❓ See also: Experiential retail: what is it and how can you get involved? 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

what are the best business ideas in london

Legacy of Lives is a free supportive funeral planning and comparison site.

81. Specialist recruiter

Gone are the days of people staying in a role for forty years or more. The Great Resignation has seen record-high staff turnover rates across businesses. In fact, a report by PwC found that 20% of UK workers planned to jump ship in the next 12 months. Any business idea that supports job seekers to improve their CVs and attract the notice of recruiters will be a winner in 2024. However, we’ve seen a trend for niche recruiters to serve particular employees – whether neurodiverse or seeking flexible working – and specific sectors, for example childcare and later life care. 

❓ See also: How to start a recruitment business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

Flexa

The inspiration behind Flexa came from cofounder Molly Johnson-Jones’ own appalling experience when flexible work wasn’t offered to her.

82. Professional cuddling service

Cuddling is known to provide comfort, relieve stress, and improve mental well-being. A professional cuddling service offers strictly platonic cuddling sessions to individuals for stress relief and emotional support. According to a study by the Mental Health Foundation , 74% of UK adults reported feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope at some point in the past year, highlighting the potential demand for such stress-relieving services. Cuddlers can charge from £60 an hour and can take on multiple clients at once (but are also responsible for ensuring their personal safety and vetting potential clients).

❓  See also: Best business ideas: wellbeing 🎓 Qualifications needed:  None 📜 Rules and regulations: None, but we would highly recommend establishing a strict code of professional conduct to ensure your personal safety 💵  Cost:  Start from £0

83. Same-day courier company

Keeping customers engaged is even more imperative now that face-to-face customer experiences are vanishing. Today's consumers are used to contacting brands via instant messaging apps, utilising virtual checkouts over real ones, and scanning QR codes instead of speaking directly to wait staff. Customers want to get their products quicker than ever, which makes offering speedy same-day delivery for urgent items a winning business idea. To make this business goal easier, you could offer your services specifically to local businesses – think Deliveroo but for retail.

❓ See also: How to start a courier business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

Packfleet

Between carbon-neutral deliveries and a worker-focused mindset that breaks from the gig economy, discover how

84. Wellbeing consultant

Businesses across the UK are waking up to the important role that good health and wellbeing play in boosting employee productivity. Starting a wellbeing consultancy is a shrewd way to help more companies tap into the trend and offer robust support for their team members. Make yourself even more valuable by concentrating on a specific sector, like mental health therapy for construction workers, an industry that has a historically poor record of mental health.

❓ See also: Employee wellbeing and mental health in the workplace: everything you need to know 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Dependant on specialism 💵 Cost: Start from £0

Lee Chambers Great British Entrepreneur Award Win

The brainchild of Lee Chambers, Essentialise is the lemonade that came about when life gave Lee a lemon.

85. Long COVID health tech app

While testing may have stopped, the legacy of the COVID-19 outbreak will no doubt continue for decades. Long COVID brings with it lots of hard to manage symptoms including increased fatigue and decreased lung capacity. In turn, these can have a negative impact on mental health. Apps to help users with breathing exercises or brain training to cope with brain fog will be sought after as the true scale of long COVID becomes better understood. Anyone with tech expertise will be well placed to cater to the growing demand.

❓ See also: Best business ideas: healthtech 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Check the gov.uk website for requirements 💵 Cost: Start from £30,000

what are the best business ideas in london

With a focus on wellbeing support for employees with chronic health conditions, Kiteline Health's app is leading the way in healthtech.

86. Online divorce consultancy

Sadly, recessions cause financial problems, and that naturally leads to marital stress. However, every cloud. Many startups have seen a golden opportunity to simplify a long and outdated process, and help those going through a difficult time. Not only is a divorce an emotionally-taxing time for those involved, it also brings a huge cost burden. If you thought funerals sounded expensive, then look away now. The average cost of a divorce in the UK – including the petition, court fees, and legal fees – is a whopping £14,500. You could gather a team of experts, or even just a well-designed AI chatbot, to make legal advice more accessible to people in early-stage divorce planning. Provide the basic, must-know information for consumers before they spend a fortune on legal fees.

❓ See also: How to start a consultancy business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None, however, some legal experience will definitely be preferred by your clients 📜 Rules and regulations: It’s important to let your customers know that you cannot and do not provide legal advice 💵 Cost: Start from £0

87. Same-sex divorce consultancy

One reason for the increased rate of divorce is the legalisation of same-sex marriage. The most recent government figures show that divorce rates for male and female couples doubled between 2018 and 2019. Sadly, there are still different laws around same-sex marriage unions, and some consumers might feel more comfortable using a service that’s especially knowledgeable about these inequalities – which is why you could profit nicely from a specialist legal advisory service designed for LGBTQ+ couples. 

🎓 Qualifications needed: None, however, some legal experience will definitely be preferred by your clients 📜 Rules and regulations: It’s important to let your customers know that you cannot and do not provide legal advice 💵 Cost: Start from £0

88. Communications app for divorcees

Sometimes, divorces end particularly badly. Communication can fall apart in these situations, so it might help some ex-couples to have a messaging application where they can talk to each other on fair ground. You could include specific elements to aid the settlement process, such as file uploading, as there’s a lot of paperwork involved in this procedure.

❓ See also: Best business ideas: easing life’s hard decisions 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

89. Low-cost pet insurance

According to Sagacity, 32% of low household income pet owners had never had pet insurance for their dog, compared to 16% of high-income households. By offering less risky plans, such as for common pet breeds or innocuous ailments, you’ll be able to bring more competitive pricing to the market and target a previously untapped audience.

❓ See also: Pet business insurance: what protection might I need? 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: As with human insurance, pet insurance is heavily regulated – check Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) requirements 💵 Cost: Start from £0

90. Premium pet food manufacturing

Worth an estimated £3 million, this industry is capitalising on the obsession with our pampered pets. Thanks to the Instagrammable wellbeing movement that has swept across the UK, the general food industry is now striving for a more minimally processed and natural ‘feel’ — and the pet food market is following suit. Obviously, developing pet supplements or food requires some background in nutrition or chemistry. But, these can be outsourced if required. The more important factor in pursuing this business idea is your ability to think creatively, which will help you invent recipes and manage resources as a small business manufacturer.

❓ See also: Best business ideas: pet care 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Check basic requirements at gov.uk 💵 Cost: Start from £5000 – £200,000 (depending on the size of the operation, be that working from home or possibly buying a premise)

91. Male fertility education

Men are gradually facing up to the vital role they play in the conception process, and many are now keen to take co-ownership of the reproductive health journey. However, there’s a knowledge gap here. While female reproductive health has been discussed for decades, its male counterpart has been largely ignored. Something that tackles the subject from a male perspective, then, could have a big audience – whether that’s a simple book or even a mobile app that guides men through what they should be doing to help their partner conceive.

❓ See also: Leading digital health platform completes $60.1M Series B funding round 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

92. Fertility improving products

As the public becomes more aware of the infertility issue, a market of fertility-boosting accessories and digestibles has arisen designed to enhance the chances of conception. Pregnancy supplements, made with ingredients like folic acid, is one trend. Meanwhile, so-called ‘cooling' underwear has been found to naturally improve male fertility and testosterone. Whatever the product, this business idea is about converting science-backed research into a B2C business model.

🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Food supplements don’t need to be licensed or registered with the UK Government but must comply with food law as detailed by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) 💵 Cost: Start from £0

93. Cybersecurity consultant

QMS International’s CyberSecurity Survey Report identified that 75.7% of business owners felt their business was now at increased risk of a cyber attack due to more people permanently working from home. All of this makes 2024 the ideal year to jump into the cybersecurity game. If you’re tech-savvy, have experience in cybersecurity, or have a revolutionary idea to help reduce the risk of a successful cyber attack, this could be your chance to help protect businesses around the country. But, even if you’ve got a great idea without the expertise, there are plenty of freelance programmers and IT professionals who you can hire to help develop the concept.

❓ See also: Cyberattacks peak in February – what can SMEs do to protect themselves? 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

what are the best business ideas in london

Using a gamified and community-led approach to training, Hack the Box is keeping businesses one step ahead of emerging cybersecurity threats.

94. VR workplace training simulations

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in the workplace are no longer the stuff of science fiction but are playing a part in permanently shifting our ways of working. You don’t have to be a design wizard or VR expert to get started in this sector. If you have experience in a particular industry or profession that you think would benefit from VR training, then why not put together a training programme? You will need a number of solid ideas for specific training programmes, and be able to confidently explain these to your VR designers. Do test before you invest though with a minimum viable product. If user feedback is positive, you know you can sell the product to businesses.

❓ See also: VR companies braced for 2022 after record investment 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

95. Automated accounting software

In a post-Brexit world, startups have tons of new tax challenges to contend with – particularly when it comes to importing and exporting. HMRC has set out new guidance on complicated processes like paying duties and VAT on customs. What a lot of people really want, though, is something that just takes all the hassle away and does (almost) everything for them. However, building any financial software requires consideration of the industry's rigid regulation to build user confidence. Your customers will need to trust that your systems and processes stay current on legislation, and provide a safety net for maintaining rigorous accounting standards.

❓ See also: Best self-employed accounting software 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Check with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) before selling or endorsing any products or services 💵 Cost: Start from £0

what are the best business ideas in london

With a specialist focus on R&D tax claims, WhisperClaims has an intriguing niche for future growth.

96. Financial education mobile app

The bad news: the 2021 UK Financial Wellbeing Survey found that 50% of working age adults don’t feel they understand enough about pensions to make decisions about saving for retirement. The good news? This presents a terrific opportunity for new startups to simplify complex personal financial matters for their customers. The key? Make sure you approach what can often be a pretty dry subject in an engaging and entertaining way. Interactive or gamified elements will be your friends here.

❓ See also: Business finance 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Check with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) before endorsing any products or services 💵 Cost: Start from £30,000

❤️‍🩹Recession-proof small business ideas

Starting a business during a recession can be challenging, but not impossible. 

Recession-proof business models are designed to weather economic downturns and thrive in uncertain times. These businesses offer products or services that are in demand regardless of the economic situation, and they often have low overhead costs and high flexibility. 

According to ONS statistics, total company insolvencies in England and Wales in 2022 reached their highest quarterly level since 2009. However, by embracing a recession-proof business model, entrepreneurs can not only survive but also thrive during tough economic times.

97. Online reselling

When times are hard, people don’t want to buy less – they just want to spend less. And they always need shoes, clothes and bags. With a myriad of reselling sites available – think eBay, DePop and Vestiaire – you can resell clothes, shoes, bags, jewellery and other accessories to cash and climate-conscious consumers. 

❓ See also: 6 best ecommerce hosting providers for small businesses 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

98. Confectionary subscription boxes

The UK snack food market was valued at £3.3 billion in 2020, according to a report by IBISWorld . At first glance, you might think confectionery is not price inelastic. After all, you don’t exactly need sweets. However, during hard economic times, it seems people do need a little sweetening and confectionery provides small, regular and cheap comfort. Find your niche – it could be vegan or gluten-free chocolate, exotic or American classic bubblegum – and hook your sweet-toothed customers in with an affordable subscription service. 

❓ See also: The subscription business model: is it right for your business? 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Products must comply with food law as detailed by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) 💵 Cost: Start from £100

Modern Milkman

The Modern Milkman is the return of the old-school, traditional milkman with a modern twist – helping to return to fresh, nostalgic deliveries and cut down on waste.

🍬 Did you know? Hershey’s sales actually increased during the Great Depression in the 1920s. While many people were cutting back on non-essential expenses, Hershey's chocolates were still relatively affordable. So Hershey's promoted their confectionery as a small indulgence that people could enjoy without breaking the bank, to great success.

99. Tutoring

Whether you’re catering to parents who need their kids to perform well in their GCSEs or A-levels or to someone who got made redundant and wants to get an online certification, demand for education remains constant regardless of what happens to the economy. If you have specialised knowledge in any area and are good at transferring your wisdom to others, this could be a good bet.

❓ See also: Starting a tutoring business: 5 simple steps 🎓 Qualifications needed: Dependent on specialism or topic 📜 Rules and regulations: May require a DBS check if tutoring children 💵 Cost: Start from £0

Clever Lili

School’s out on traditional learning. South-East based Clever Lili is a new revision app that uses artificial intelligence to help students ace their exams.

100. Low alcohol beer brewer

Alcohol is a ‘guilty pleasure’ industry that tends to perform well even as the country’s economy begins to crush any joy. It certainly serves as a coping mechanism for some and whilst people tend to stay away from pubs and bars, home consumption increases significantly during hard times. But people are continually looking for ways to turn this into a healthier habit and the UK low-alcohol / no-alcohol beer market is rapidly growing. So get brewing!

what are the best business ideas in london

Sarah McNena and Joelle Drummond founded zero-carbon brewery Drop Bear Beer Co. after they couldn't find a low alcohol beer that tasted good enough to drink.

101. Pet care consultancy

The pet sector has been one of the most well-publicised success stories of the past two years. When we were told to stay at home, households up and down the country invested in a furry friend for extra company. In the UK, it’s estimated that an astonishing 59% of households own a pet. To avoid super long and expensive veterinary training (on average £32,000 in degree fees) take shorter courses, like nutrition or grooming, which would allow you to sell expert services to consumers who are tired of expensive vet bills and want to find affordable advice on primary pet care.

❓ See also: Best business ideas: pet care 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Dependant on specialism 💵 Cost: Start from £0

102. Eco-friendly baby boxes

While lots of adults will cut back on their own expenses when times are hard, it’s unlikely they’ll be stingy when it comes to their kids. From diapers to baby formula, demand for baby products remains pretty stable throughout periods of negative economic fluctuations. Combined with growing awareness of environmental issues, there is a demand for eco-friendly baby products such as organic cotton clothes, reusable cloth diapers, and biodegradable wipes. Could you curate subscription boxes full of sustainable goodies for time-poor eco-conscious parents? 

❓ See also: The subscription business model: is it right for your business? 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

103. High-tech pet products

People might joke about their pets being their children, but during a recession, the same logic as childcare products applies to pet products. Regardless of how tight someone’s wallet is, they will still need to buy pet essentials so this is a viable recession-proof business venture. There is a growing market for high-tech pet products, such as GPS-enabled collars, smart feeders and water dispensers, and pet cameras that allow owners to check on their pets remotely.

🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: £10,000 – £50,000

104. Reskiller or upskiller

If you have particular experience in an industry or sector with lots of jobs available – such as software development – you could offer your expertise to those who are looking to upskill or retrain to help them put their existing talents into a new area, such as coding. The good thing about this business idea is it can be a low-maintenance or flexible operation. You could offer live lectures, online consultations or you could simply upload a training course for people to pay for at a reduced rate.

❓ See also: Mind the AI skills gap: Only 1 in 10 global workers have key AI skills 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

105. Financial adviser

This one is pretty self-explanatory. When people are struggling in the middle of a recession, they reach out to financial connoisseurs to help them break even. If you have the tools and know-how, it’ll be easy to sell yourself to those looking for guidance to navigate turbulent economic waters.

❓ See also: Best self-employed accounting software 🎓 Qualifications needed: Financial advisors must hold a Level 4 qualification approved by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This usually means obtaining a Diploma in Financial Planning or a similar qualification. For accountants, the most common qualification in the UK is the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) qualification. 📜 Rules and regulations: All financial advisers must be regulated by the FCA 💵 Cost: Start from £0

106. Commercial cleaner

No one likes to work in squalid conditions, regardless of how badly the Bank of England says the British economy is doing (and how messy their own home is). Hygiene, especially, became paramount after the COVID-19 pandemic as employers look to sanitise workspaces, bathrooms and public areas. You can start small with local businesses and expand your empire when you get a feel for the sector. 

❓ See also: How to start a commercial cleaning business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: On average, starting a commercial cleaning business could cost between £5,000 to £20,000. If you plan to provide deep cleaning or specialised services, you may need to invest in additional equipment and training, which could increase your startup costs

107. Odd job person

During a recession, people are much more likely to make do and mend rather than get something new. An odd job person is someone who performs a variety of small jobs or tasks for clients, such as minor repairs, furniture assembly, or cleaning and clearing. According to a survey by Rated People , the odd job industry is worth over £9 billion in the UK, with 51% of homeowners admitting to having unfinished odd jobs around their homes. Now is a great time to take advantage of people’s desire to repair rather than replace. All it takes to start is a few flyers, a basic toolkit and word-of-mouth. 

❓ See also: Why starting a business in a recession isn’t as crazy as you think 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: Start from £0

108. Cosmetic chemist

In layperson's terms, a cosmetic chemist is someone who creates beauty products. During a recession, the “lipstick effect” means consumers continue to purchase makeup, skincare, and hair care products as a form of self-care and affordable luxury. In the UK, the beauty industry is worth over £27 billion, with the average British woman spending £70,000 on beauty products in her lifetime, according to a study by Superdrug .

❓ See also:   How to start a beauty salon 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: Check gov.uk website for details 💵 Cost: The cost of starting a beauty product business can range from £2000 – £20,000, depending on whether or not you want to create the products yourself, or buy from a manufacturer or wholesaler that you can then whitelabel and sell on

what are the best business ideas in london

KinKind’s plastic-free hair and beauty bars keep both its customers and the planet clean, having so far saved over 320,000 plastic bottles from landfill.

109. Job application coach

Recessions mean redundancies. Designing a CV, building a portfolio website, drafting an application letter, preparing for an interview – these common tasks can be not just time-consuming and stressful, particularly for those candidates that are re-entering the job marketplace after a job loss or time at home or who are switching sectors. If you have experience in HR or people management, you could consider becoming a coach to support in the application and interview stages. Advice can be presented digitally, so you could offer your services to people across the country. You could also consider advertising a discounted rate for multiple sessions.

❓ See also: How to start a recruitment business 🎓 Qualifications needed: None 📜 Rules and regulations: None 💵 Cost: £0

Ready to begin? Well, perhaps you won’t be starting your small business right this very moment. But, we hope this article has given you some food for thought and inspiration for the year ahead. If you need more help to start your small enterprise, head to our handy guide on how to come up with a business idea that suits YOU , with considerations from building on your skillset to considering how you’ll overcome the challenges.

Whatever type of business you’re considering launching, have a clarity of purpose at the front of your mind. Focus on who your potential customer base will be – and above all, what particular needs they have that your business can fulfil in a better way than the competition.

Launching a business can be one of the scariest plunges you’ll take. But it can also be deeply rewarding to be your own boss. With the right planning, even a small business idea can quickly become a hugely profitable business.

Other resources that may help you:

  • How to start a business: an 11 step guide to success
  • Startups' business plan template
  • How to come up with a business idea

Startups 100 WINNER

Looking for more inspiration?

  • What are the most successful small business ideas? The success of a small business idea can vary depending on various factors such as market demand, competition, and execution. However, a good place to start would be to try out recession proof ideas.
  • What are the cheapest businesses to start? Service-based businesses, such as freelance writing, graphic design, tutoring, pet sitting, or house cleaning, typically have low startup costs since they primarily rely on your skills and time. Another affordable option is dropshipping, where you sell products online without needing to hold inventory. Additionally, home-based businesses that leverage existing resources, such as starting a home bakery or offering home-based childcare services, can be cost-effective to launch.
  • What businesses can I start from home? Many businesses can be started from the comfort of your home, such as online retail or e-commerce, freelance services like writing, graphic design, or web development; consulting or coaching in various fields such as marketing, finance, or wellness; a home-based daycare or tutoring service, or creating and selling handmade crafts or artwork through online platforms.

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what are the best business ideas in london

ProfitableVenture

20 Best Business Investment Opportunities in London

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

London is one of the most attractive cities to do business in the world. It is the capital of both England and U.K. In fact, London is the world’s leading financial centre and offers a lot of business opportunities in sectors such as arts, commerce, education, entertainment, fashion, finance, healthcare, media, professional services, research and development, tourism and transport.

In a recent survey carried out by the Confederation of British Industry, it was estimated that 90% of business owners rate London as a very fertile city for business.

The rate of business success in London is not unconnected to its good infrastructure, cultural diversity, and peaceful environment. Now there are a lot of businesses you can do in London ranging from Franchise business opportunities to small scale startups ( businesses for sale ).

It doesn’t even matter if you have little capital to invest. There are businesses that you can even start without capital. The key is to understand how and where to invest your money. Some of the hot and trending businesses that you can do in London include-:

Business Investment Opportunities in London

1. microbrewery.

London is a very busy place and after a hard day’s job, people love to relax and unwind. Of course, starting a brewery will cost you a lot of money but you can start a microbrewery from home; where you can produce your own beer which you would sell within your own pub or restaurant.

2. Personal Trainer

If you are good at any skill or art, you can become a personal trainer. For instance, you can become a personal fitness trainer or a musical instrument trainer. You can even become a dance or choreography trainer.

3. Virtual Assistant

Due to the economic recession, a lot of companies have had to reduce its workforce and resorted to hiring virtual assistants who would work from their own homes/office on a part-time or full-time basis.

Virtual assistants are often considered a cheaper option because they do not have to be paid several benefits like health insurance, pension etc compared to full time workers. To become a virtual assistant, all you need is a computer and a means of getting good clients.

4. Mobile Catering

It is estimated that more than 50% of London residents do not cook at home but this people have to eat or they won’t have the strength to go about their businesses.

This simply means that more than half of London residents eat out. Well, that’s good news for you because it means that there is a high demand for fast foods which means that you stand to make good money if you start a mobile catering business where you take cooked meals to business districts and busy areas and sell them to people.

5. Regional co-working

Co-working was named as one of the hottest businesses for 2014. Co-working is one of the businesses that came up as a result of the economic recession. Co-working is almost similar to freelancing but slightly different. As a co-worker, you will gather some of your friends or interested individuals and rent an office space together.

Each one of you will be involved in a separate but inter-related business. For instance, a group of accountants can come together with each one offering a different service. There can be a tax consultant, an investment accountant, etc. The whole point is to reduce costs and attract more clients.

6. Tea Shop

Well, the British love their tea. Tea is like the national drink of the British and if you are searching for that low-capital business to start in London, then you have the answer; a tea shop! If you have the capital, then you can consider buying a franchise.

7. Independent BYOD consultant

BYOD is an acronym for Bring your own device. It is a term that refers to allowing employees bring their own gadgets and tools to work such as computers, mobile phones and internet connectivity devices. This is a growing trend in many companies in the world but it is received with mixed feelings.

While some think it helps to boost employee morale and performance, some are of the opinion that it increases risks and security threats. You can seize this opportunity and become a BYOD consultant to companies and help them reduce the risks and threats that come with the introduction of the BYOD system to companies.

8. Boutique home care business

This is also listed as one of the top businesses for 2014. This is a kind of facility that cares for the aged and elderly. This is not your regular kind of old people’s home but a better, well-equipped facility in a conducive environment with access to a lot of modern facilities like sporting facilities, spa, medical facilities and well trained staff.  It would cost you between £300,000 and £2,000,000 to start this kind of business.

9. Beauty Spa

Londoners are not all about work and no play. They also love to relax and get pampered too. You can start your own London spa where people can get massages, skin treatments and get to relax during the week or at weekends.

10. Data Analytics

With the number of companies in London, you cannot go wrong with setting up a data analytics company because companies rely on data to make a lot of business decisions.

11. Chiropractic Services

If you would prefer to start a health care based business, you can start a chiropractic business that would help treat musculoskeletal and nervous system disorders such as back pain, joint pain, headaches or joint pain. However, to start this kind of business, you would need some kind of professional training.

12. Cleaning services

London is a very busy city and the residents of London are busy. However, there is still the need and desire to live in a clean environment. A lot of residents hire cleaners to clean out their homes few times in a week. You can start a commercial cleaning or residential cleaning business with less than £300.

13. Cab Service

Thousands of people visit London for different reasons daily; some for business, while others for holiday. You can start a cab service to help move people around from one place to another especially around airport areas.

14. Real Estate

Everybody needs a roof over their head and you stand to make good profit from developing buildings and offering them up for rent or for sale.

15. Newspaper Supply

Newspaper supply is in the list of low-cost businesses that you can start in London. All you have to do is to supply daily newspapers to people’s homes and offices for a fee.

16. Football Club-themed Pub

One other thing the English love is their football. You can start a pub for fans of a particular football club where they can come and hang out, watch their team play and discuss while enjoying their favorite drink.

17. Financial Consulting

Almost everyone is in need of one type of financial assistance or the other whether it is insurance, taxes, investments, mortgages or savings. You can become a financial consultant and offer advice to people who need guidance and assistance with their finances and earn commissions from the services you render.

18. Motorcycle + Bicycle Sales and Repairs

London has one of the worst traffic in the world and a lot of people prefer to use their bicycles or motorcycles to move about as a way to beat traffic.

19. Boutique

Food, shelter and clothing. Those are the three basic things that human beings cannot do without. The residents of London are not left out too. You can start a boutique where you will sell high quality clothing items to the highly fashionable residents of London.

20. Tour Guide -: You can also become a tour guide to tourists who are in London on holiday.

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What is The Best Business To Start in London – 5 Easy Start-Up Ideas to know

Table of Contents

In 2020, the number of privately owned businesses in the UK reached 6 million . Here we discuss easy start-up ideas.

That is 112,700 more than the number of private businesses in the UK in 2019. That’s over 300 businesses being started each day.

Now if you too want to start up a business in London, the heart of the UK, there is no better time than today.

Want to be your own boss but don’t know where to start?

Want to reach the zenith of success but don’t want to hustle hard for years before that?

Well, here are 5 no-fuss and simple start-up ideas. These ideas are the first step to buildings a successful business in London. Read on.

As the heart of business in the UK, London is a place that’s bustling with new businesses. And most new businesses would be appreciative of getting SEO services. Why? Because SEO would help them carve out a space for themselves in the digital niche.

What do you need?

SEO know-how; Internet connectivity; communication skills; will to learn and update yourself with the latest SEO best practices.

How much can you earn?

SEO consultants in the UK make an average of £38,333 per annum basic pay. And if you start finding work through job gig portals like Fiverr, you can expect to earn somewhere between £740 to £1110 per week depending on your proficiency, the array of services you offer, and the amount of time you put in.

Where to get started?

Even if you do not have any prior search engine optimization knowledge or experience, you can make use of free courses and videos available online to learn. For inspiration, you can check out Fernando Raymond’s website . He started his SEO business as a freelancer and now runs a full-service digital marketing agency ClickDo . The success of Fernando and his company bears testimony to the fact that search engine optimization and digital marketing are money-making mines.

2. Web Design

So then why should you start offering web designing services in an already overpopulated market?

That’s because web designing is an ever-evolving field. Every day we come across new tools and technologies that can be used for designing websites and new best practices are discovered.

And if you can stay relevant in such a market, dishing out innovative, with-the-times solutions, your web design business would take off soon.

Basic design acumen, experience with and expertise in working with website development tools and technologies, Internet literacy, and understanding of Internet user behavior.

As a freelance web designer working on your own, you can charge hourly or project-wise rates depending on what suits you best. The commonly charged hourly rates based on experience are:

  • 0-3 years experience – £10 – £35
  • 3-5 years experience – £35 – £70
  • 5-10+ years’ experience – £70 – £100

The total money you can make ultimately depends on how many clients you are able to rake in and how many hours you clock for them.

You can start as a freelance web designer and collaborate with other freelancers as and when required to start building a team. You should also focus on building your portfolio to get more clients in the future.

3. Waste Clearance

But one man’s waste is another’s treasure. The waste that households and businesses create and then struggle to dispose of properly can be your source of income. Waste removal services can help people and organizations avoid legal penalties and public backlash. By serving these people to get rid of their waste in an eco-conscious manner, you can do your bit for nature and make good money.

A team of waste disposal experts with knowledge about legal requirements of waste disposal in London; cleaning and waste clearing equipment; communication, management, and team-building skills.

Estimates success that rubbish removal companies can make anywhere between £50 to £1500 each week . However, that is not inclusive of operational expenses. Depending on what equipment you use and how many people you hire, along with how many customers you serve, the amount can vary. Also, serving commercial establishments is known to be more profitable than residential rubbish removal.

You can take a look at the top 10 rubbish removal companies serving London and start with competitor analysis. All Junk Removal is one of the top-ranked companies in the capital and it can surely act as a source of inspiration and path-marker for you.

4. Accounting

Even if you don’t have accounting know-how, you can take quick online courses without breaking the bank and gather the skills you need. You can start by working as a freelance/part-time accountant for a business and then expand your practice by getting more experienced professionals on board.

Accounting know-how: the ability to work with numbers; proper permits to practice in London; experience of working with the latest accounting software.

If you start extending freelance accounting services through gig sites like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer you can expect to make £11-£50 per hour based on your level of experience. However, some clients also onboard accountants on a contractual basis with monthly payments ranging between £50-£500. Your final receivable amount depends on what services you extend (basic accounting, taxation, employee payroll management, or auditing).

However, note that you’d have to invest in accounting software and your profits will depend on what software you use and how much of your income you must dish out towards that.

Unless you already have the required skills and permits, start by working towards getting that. Once ready, start contacting potential clients you can serve with your accounting practice.

5. Brexit Business Lawyer

If you have the legal knowledge that would help London-based businesses, becoming a Brexit business lawyer is a great opportunity. You can also extend services to businesses located outside of London by offering consultation through e-meet platforms.

But isn’t it a short-lived business idea?

If you are concerned about your law services not being relevant a couple of years down the line, know that you can always switch gears when it comes to running your own legal practice. If you feel Londoners don’t need Brexit-related legal counsel anymore, you can switch to international trade or other niches of business law.

Legal knowledge about how Brexit is going to affect businesses in London; ability to get the legal tasks done in time; technical know-how to be able to offer services (or consultation) virtually.

For lawyers practicing in London, the hourly rates start at around £250 and rise rapidly towards £500 per hour once you start getting the required experience. As a rule of thumb, commercial and business lawyers make much more than personal law practitioners. And how much you make a lawyer with a specialization in Brexit-related legal matters depends on how much your contemporaries are charging and to what extent are you able to consult your clients about your worth.

Start by identifying a model of working (whether you’d be working on an hourly basis or on a case-to-case basis). Then pitch your services to the right audience. And start building your business by onboarding more and more clients.

Getting Started with your London Business

With that, it’s a wrap on our list of simple start-up ideas to build a business in London. For business ideas that work well if you have the physical infrastructure available, check out our list of the 4 most profitable businesses to start in London .

No matter which idea you go with, here are a few things to always remember:

  • Make sure you identify your target audience and competition before entering any market. You need to know who you want to serve and how, and who you must beat.
  • No one can become a successful businessperson overnight. The ideas mentioned above are simple and effective, but you will have to give the ideas enough time to come to fruition.
  • While you are just starting out, it is best to go solo and offer your services without a physical base. SEO, web designing, waste removal, accounting, and legal services can all be offered without office infrastructure. Instead of investing money in office space right at the beginning, you can use it for upskilling yourself.
  • No matter what business you start, stay professional and dedicated to serving your customers. That’s what will help you stay ahead of your competition.
  • Invest in logistics and employee satisfaction, and practice delegation to keep your London-based business running smoothly .

Check out these in-depth guides if you want more business start-up ideas and tips:

How to Start A UK Business And Grow It Online – 10 Steps? (clickdo.co.uk)

How To Start An Online Business UK (From Home With A Laptop) | ClickDo™

How To Start An Online Business UK: Guide To Starting Business Online | SeekaHost

Now, don’t wait up anymore, get ready to set up a simple start-up in London today.

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14 Of The Best Team-Building Activities In London For A Truly Wonderful Work Do

From bingo and bowls to ping pong and painting; we've rounded up 14 of the very best team-building activities to make sure your next work do is a goodun!

Katie Forge

Some people love them; some people hate them; we’ve all got to do them and so we may as well make them as enjoyable as possible, right? If you’ve been tasked with the job of finding the perfect setting for your next work do or Christmas party ; you’ve come to the right place. Here’s our rundown of the very best team-building activities in London for the ultimate organised fun with your work pals.

1. Let off some steam with some axe-throwing

someone preparing to throw an axe at a target at whistle punks

There’s nothing quite like lobbing a sharp object into the abyss to offload some pent-up, work-related stress, hey? Axe-throwing has become increasingly popular over the years and London certainly isn’t short of venues for you and your work mates to cathartically fling some axes at a target. Whistle Punks , for example, is the largest axe-throwing venue in Europe , hosting up to 90 players at once and serving up some pretty great craft beer and pizza too. Round up your colleagues and get ready to channel your inner vikings because it sounds like a pretty axe -ellent team-building activity to us.

Plan your visit here .

2. Hit the bullseye in a game of darts

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝗙𝗟𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝗖𝗟𝗨𝗕 𝗗𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗦 🎯 (@flightclubdarts)

Next up on our list of the best team-building activities in London is another one that involves hurling something sharp and hoping for a bullseye (should my colleagues be mildly concerned that I clearly associate work do’s with throwing sharp objects at poor, unassuming targets?). Flight Club uses state-of-the-art technology to track the scores, show the action replays, and make darts cool again. Grab an oche , put on your game face and don’t forget to order one of their boozy slushies for your victory toast.

3. Let the good times bowl at The Bowls Club

The Bowls Club

Now, I know what you’re thinking: ‘Bowls? Seriously?’ and look, I’m well aware that most people associate bowls with their grandparents but at The Bowls Club , it’s not just regular bowls, it’s cool bowls. That’s right; they’ve given the quintessentially British game a trendy makeover, thrown in some live music and delicious street food , and made it an un- bowl -ievably great option for your next team day out .

4. Get a full house at boozy bingo

View this post on Instagram A post shared by DABBERS BINGO (@dabbersbingo)

Next up on our roundup of the best team-building activities in London is of course: bingo ! At Dabbers Social Bingo , they take the classic game that we all know and love, and give it a boozy, millennial glow up . What better way to bond with Karen from accounts than triumphantly shouting ‘BINGO’ into her face, hey? It’s big prizes , even bigger laughs and an absolute must for your next work social .

5. Let your creative juices flow at a painting workshop

A collage showing two images side-by-side of neon paint and canvases.

An afternoon spent painting is a wonderful way to turn off the logical half of your brain and let the creative half take over, making it a (hopefully) picture-perfect team-building activity. Paint in the Dark offers sip-and-paint classes , where you’re given nice drinks to sip on whilst you paint – surely that will give you all the Dutch courage you need to chat to those colleagues you’ve not met before and really let loose with the fluorescent paint .

6. Step inside an out-of-this-world immersive cocktail experience

a person holding a cocktail at the Avora cocktail experience

Leave your work-related stress at the door and embark on a true cocktail adventure for your next work do. Avora  is a multisensory experience, drawing on all the senses. From the very moment you enter and don your custom jumpsuit, you’ll be tasked with creating your own colour-changing cocktail that works as an ‘antidote’ to acclimatise you to the new world. Whilst the cocktails are important (and you get 3 included with your ticket), there’s a story at play that touches on climate change. For every ticket sold, they have pledged to plant a tree, and the ingredients used for all the cocktails meet stringent sustainability standards. It’s good for your team morale and the planet. What more could you ask for?

7. Take a swing at some crazy golf

A lady playing crazy golf at the Swingers City branch in Central London

We’re going down the ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ route with our next entry on the list. Crazy golf is an oldie but a goodie when it comes to team-building activities in our capital city . Round up the team and swing in to action at Swingers , one of the cities best-loved mini-golf venues . Sinking holes-in-one (or at least giving it your best shot) is thirsty work so it’s a good job that Swingers has an extensive drinks menu, so you can celebrate your win or commiserate your loss with one of the  creative concoctions available on their impressive cocktail menu . There will also be an array of  tasty snacks  on hand for refueling between rounds and keeping you at the top of your game.

8. Shuffle things up with some shuffleboard

View this post on Instagram A post shared by London Shuffle Club (@ldnshuffle)

Shuffling their way into our list of the top 12 team-building activities in London is London Shuffle Club . Based in trendy Shoreditch , this shuffleboard hotspot is the only UK venue with both lane and table shuffleboard under one roof, so there’s sure to be a game that will appeal to every member of the team. Add that to the fact that they boast a fabulous food and drink menu and a bangin’ bottomless brunch ; and you have every reason to shuffle along to this one. If all else fails, I’m sure you could create a team-building drinking game based on the amount of times I’ve used the word shuffle in this paragraph.

9. Belt your hearts out at karaoke

group of young people singing karaoke in a bar

What better way to bond a workforce than by putting them all in a room together, thrusting microphones upon them, and forcing them to warble their way through a Whitney classic? You might feel slightly apprehensive about the idea of karaoke at first, but (speaking from experience) as soon as you’ve had a drink (or five), you and your colleagues will be fighting over that microphone, desperate to flaunt your (questionable) vocal skills. Barrio Brixton offer a nostalgia-inducing karaoke experience with their Lips Don’t Lie: Throwback Karaoke which will be sure to have the entire team belting their hearts out in no time.

10. Take a trip to the Wild West

a group of characters in wild west gear at cocktail experience Moonshine Saloon

Next up on our list of the best team-building activities in London is Moonshine Saloon . Cowboys and cowgirls, ramblers and gamblers, and all kinds of shady characters fill the saloon. Once you step off the modern-day pavement, you’ll be greeted by live actors who’ll welcome you into the illicit Moonshine empire. You also smuggle in your own liquor and the bartenders will transform your booze into four personalised cocktails , adding to the excitement. Round up the team and have yourself a rootin’-tootin’ time.

11. Get competitive with a game of ping pong

Bounce ping pong

Us Londoners can be a competitive bunch, and sometimes there’s nothing better than whacking a ball back and forth with a few colleagues to let off some steam. Bounce is London’s bouncy pair (soon to be trio) of ping pong joints that guarantee good vibes , cool interiors, an upbeat soundtrack, and great games . As a company, you can hire out the whole venue, if you wish, and there are a whole host of packages you can choose from, so get the gang together and may the best employee win .

12. Shake things up with a cocktail making class

People enjoying a cocktail masterclass at TT Liquor

Whether you like yours shaken, stirred, on the rocks, or completely alcohol-free ; a cocktail making class might be just the thing you’re looking for to mix things up a little at your next work do . Kingsland Road  cocktail bar, TT Liquor , offer up  super interactive cocktail making experiences with a side of  friendly competition , what more could you want from a team-building activitiy?

13. Have a boogie at a roller disco

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Secret London (@secret.london)

Get ya skates on and head on down to Flippers Roller Boogie Palace for a truly unique team-building activity . Bringing the liveliness of LA all the way to White City , Flippers could be just the high-energy, fun-filled activity that you and your team are looking for. You can guarantee it’s going to be good because we gave it one of our super sought-after seal-of-approval Secret London stickers . Ooooh.

14. Have some fun at the fair

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fairgame (@wearefairgame)

The final entry on our list of the best team-building activities in London is a trip down memory lane. Ahh, remember the good old days of fairgrounds, candy floss and not paying bills? Well, we unfortunately can’t do anything about the whole bill-paying thing but we can point you in the direction of Fairgame . Think old-school fairground games but with a state-of-the-art technology twist. Cocktails, candy floss, and a good dose of friendly competition? It’s a match made in team-building heaven.

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6 Things To Do On A Business Trip In London

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March 8, 2021

6 Things To Do On A Business Trip In London

Are you visiting London on business? You might be in the city to work, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend your whole trip in your hotel room! Ditch the room service and escape to a fabulous restaurant, squeeze in some sightseeing between meetings or congratulate yourself on a job well done with a drink and panoramic views. Whether you’re in town solo or with colleagues, here’s our guide to the best places to visit if you’re in London on business. 

Madison 

Just a stone's throw from St Paul’s Cathedral, this rooftop bar and tapas restaurant is the perfect spot to head to after a day’s work in The City. Perched on the penthouse, there’s a modern restaurant which is always packed with City workers who love its buzzing atmosphere, but the real star of the show is the outdoor terrace. Their rooftop bar has one of the best views of St Paul’s you’ll find anywhere; whatever time of day you visit you’ll love the panorama of the London skyline but at night is when it’s truly spectacular!

Duck & Waffle 

Duck & Waffle 

If your tight schedule means you finish work late (or later than planned), don’t worry as there are plenty of good options in the city for late-night dining. One of these is Duck & Waffle , which you’ll find on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower. A modern restaurant serving British and European cuisine 24 hours a day, they take all-day dining to the next level! This stunning space will wow you with its floor-to-ceiling windows, experimental cocktails, and sophisticated menu which lifts traditional dishes with a contemporary twist. 

Catch a last minute show in the West End

Catch a last minute show in the West End

Find yourself with an evening free? What better way to spend a night off in London than to experience its world famous West End for yourself. Even if you haven’t booked tickets in advance, you’ll be able to find last minute tickets for a show or play with no trouble. If you know what you’d like to see, head straight to the box office of your chosen theatre, but if you’re not sure simply head to the TKTS booth in Leicester Square where you’ll find same day tickets for dozens of shows. Or for a truly special evening, you might be lucky enough to get a last minute ticket for a performance at the stunning Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. Last minute tickets are released online every Friday for the following week through their Friday Rush scheme - take a look at what’s on here. 

Walk from Tower Hill to Westminster 

Walk from Tower Hill to Westminster 

What better way to see the city the by exploring it on foot? Strolling along the banks of the River Thames from Westminster to Tower Hill (or vice versa!) is the best way to see many of London’s most famous attractions in a limited time. The walk takes just over an hour, but if you meander or stop to check out some of the sights it would be a little longer. You’ll be able to see landmarks of the London skyline like Tower Bridge, The Shard, the London Eye, and Big Ben, as well as soak up the buzzing atmosphere on Southbank and get a sense of history at Westminster where you can see the UK parliament and Westminster Abbey. If you’ve got time, meander a little further from the river itself and stop by Borough Market to pick up some delicious street food or treats to take home with you!

Sky Garden 

Sky Garden 

With one of the best views across the city, try to squeeze in a visit to Sky Garden if you can! Atop the famous “Walkie Talkie” building at 20 Fenchurch Street, step out of the lift and into an impressive urban jungle that has 360-degree views of London from its floor-to-ceiling windows. You’ll be able to spot all of London’s landmarks and get a unique perspective on the city. The leafy gardens are a public space, what better way to enjoy the view than with a cocktail in hand? Sky Garden is home to two stunning bars, as well as two restaurants. Book a table at the Darwin Brasserie or the Fenchurch Restaurant for exquisite, contemporary British cuisine and the best view in town. 

Hang out with a local Londoner

Hang out with a local Londoner

If you're still struggling for ideas, ways to fill your time or you just fancy some good company then you're best off booking a couple of hours with a local. Companies like CityUnscripted are great for this. Their locals live for the city, not just in it, and are passionate about showing you the best and brightest of their home. In just a couple of hours you'll be able to see anything you fancy; whether that's some of the famous sights or simply some locally loved pubs. All locals are carefully handpicked for each guest based on their personality and interests - so there's no danger of awkward silences or conflicting interests. Best of all these are real people, not just tour guides, so the experience is totally unique and flexible to you; it's basically just hanging out with a really knowledgeable pal. 

Hello, curious traveler! Embark on a unique experience with Hello, curious traveler! Embark on a unique experience with City Unscripted London. Our personalized, private tours, led by local hosts, make you feel like you’re exploring the city with a knowledgeable friend. We’ll take you to well-known sights and reveal London’s hidden gems, unveiling stories typically missed by traditional tours. So unscript your journey, and see London through the eyes of our local hosts!

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Footnotes: * KPMG reported on the results of obtaining evidence and applying specified audit procedures relating to selected survey data provided for the Financial Times MBA ranking for selected business schools. Enquiries about the assurance process can be made by contacting Lori Huber of KPMG at [email protected]. The specified audit procedures were carried out between October and November 2023. The audit year refers to the publication year of the ranking for which the specified audit precedures were conducted.

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‡ School has no board

** Data in this column are for information only and are not used in the rankings.

Some 157 points separate the top programme, at University of Pennsylvania: Wharton, from the school ranked 100. The schools are divided into four tiers. Business schools in tiers l and ll score above the average for the cohort, and tiers lll and lV are below it. The difference in scores between schools ranked consecutively is greater within tiers l and lV than in tiers ll and lll. Tier l includes eight schools from Wharton to London Business School. Tier ll includes schools from Cornell University: Johnson, ranked nine, to Alliance Manchester Business School at 46. Tier lll, headed by Indian Institute of Management Bangalore, spans schools ranked 47 to Western University: Ivey at 90. Tier lV includes schools from University College Dublin: Smurfit at 91 to Fordham University: Gabelli at 100.

Further reading

How an MBA helped save a china dynasty

How an MBA helped save a china dynasty

Study story: Leo Lu was drifting when he answered the call to tackle a crisis in his family’s porcelain business

How Patrick Grant fashioned a new direction at business school

How Patrick Grant fashioned a new direction at business school

Study and an advert in the FT helped him start again as an entrepreneur and TV presenter

How India gave the US a generation of business school deans

How India gave the US a generation of business school deans

What has taken so many Indian former overseas students to the top in America?

London Business School calls ‘peak MBA’ as visa reforms hit student demand

London Business School calls ‘peak MBA’ as visa reforms hit student demand

Uptake of flagship two-year qualification dwindles as applicants turn to more cost-effective course destinations

what are the best business ideas in london

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what are the best business ideas in london

London’s Corporate Playground: 19 Ideas for Unforgettable Events

London’s Corporate Playground: 19 Ideas for Unforgettable Events

Bored of the same old quarterly parties and corporate retreats? It’s time to shake things up with fresh ideas for corporate events in London that your team will love. From family-friendly fun days to mindfulness workshops, we’ve got the inside scoop on venues and activities that are anything but run-of-the-mill. 

Get ready to wow your colleagues. The countdown is on, so let’s dive right into the exciting possibilities waiting for you and your team in London!

Fun Corporate Event Ideas in London 

Creative corporate events to try in london , corporate wellness event ideas , find a team building venue today.

From meeting spaces to escape rooms, we have the best selection of venues for your corporate event needs.

There are countless ways to entertain your team and show your appreciation for their hard work. Whether you plan a trip to some escape rooms, rum-making masterclasses, or even bringing their pets to work, fostering a healthy work-life balance can significantly boost employee morale and productivity.

1. Weekly Happy Hour 

‘Work hard, play harder’ is our motto at Tagvenue. We firmly believe in fostering a tightly-knit team through weekly gatherings. 

Here’s how it works: every Friday evening, the company covers the tab for drinks and food, bringing the team together casually. Participation is voluntary, allowing everyone to decide if they want to join the fun.

By offering a regular opportunity to socialise, you can ensure that morale stays high and your team remains motivated.

40936 botanical bar room 1

2. Enjoy a Meal Together 

‘Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.’ – Auguste Escoffier

If you want to keep your employees’ spirits high, a delicious dinner or lunch will surely do the trick!

Gathering your team together outside working hours allows them to get to know each other differently and discover similarities, likes, and dislikes – this, in turn, allows everyone to work together more harmoniously. 

London boasts numerous restaurants with private dining spaces perfect for corporate gatherings. 👉 Here are our top picks for a corporate lunch or dinner event :

  • Penny Squares at Canopy – Large corporate teams will be impressed with Canopy’s beautiful decor and speciality restaurant. Inspired by the area’s rich sewing factory history, the industrial furniture and lighting create a unique atmosphere. An evening spent here will become legendary in office lore for years!
  • The Inspector’s Office at Bow Street Tavern – Perfect for intimate gatherings of up to 14 people, London’s first Police Station-turned-gastropub offers a cosy and vibrant pink space. It’s an ideal setting for lively banter, laughter, and great moments with your team.
  • Ibérica Victoria – Treat small teams of 5-6 to a luxurious dinner experience at Ibérica Victoria. Its vintage furniture and ambient lighting make it the perfect venue for celebrating end-of-year milestones or team achievements in style!

the folly private dining room corporate events london 1

3. Bring Your Pet to Work Day 

Are you looking to foster team bonding and camaraderie? Why not invite your colleagues to bring their pets to work or share stories about their beloved companions?

It’s a paw-some way to celebrate the special bond between humans and their pets while bringing smiles to everyone’s faces!

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💡 Tip: Turn your space into a pet-friendly area by asking employees to bring leashes, crates, or gates to keep the pet securely in the office. Consider getting bowls for food and water and gifting some toys to the fur babies!

4. Throw a Bingo Party 

Treat your team to a fun night of bingo excitement at Hijingo . 

This Shoreditch venue offers a unique twist on the classic game, infusing it with Tokyo Nights vibes. Prepare for a unique experience with state-of-the-art special effects, lively hosts, and delectable refreshments that steal the show.

hijingo bingo london corporate events 1

5. Play Detectives at an Escape Room

Don your detective hats and embark on an immersive journey. Solve puzzles, unravel mysteries, and test your team’s sleuthing skills in an atmosphere unlike any other.

The Mind Palace offers unforgettable adventures that will challenge your team’s wits and leave you craving more. It’s time to channel their inner Sherlocks and uncover the secrets hidden within!

the mind palace corporate events for london

Boosting team satisfaction and cohesion is key to a thriving workplace culture. One effective approach is introducing engaging activities and experiences outside traditional work hours. From immersive workshops to hands-on classes, these events provide opportunities for team members to connect, explore, and develop new skills together.

6. Attend a Rum-Making Masterclass

Transport your corporate event to a tropical paradise at Laki Kane !

Laki Kane offers a rum-making experience to take your corporate event to a tropical paradise in Islington. 

During the masterclass, your team can craft their spiced rums under expert guidance, creating personalised bottles to take home as cherished souvenirs. But that’s not all – Laki Kane goes above and beyond with its offerings.

Indulge in theatrical live entertainment and savour exquisite Thai cuisine, ensuring your team feels pampered in paradise.

laki kane corporate events london

💁🏻‍♀️ See our 16 ideas for a team building event in London

7. Make a Pizza

This hands-on pizza-making experience fosters real connections among team members, encouraging them to tease, compete, and collaborate as they strive to create the perfect pizza.

Through kneading dough, selecting the toppings, and patiently waiting for the oven timer to chime, colleagues learn valuable lessons in patience and teamwork.

So why not roll up your sleeves, get creative with toppings, and enjoy a slice of teamwork at your next corporate event?

mamma dough pizza parlour ldn 1 1

👉 Other recommendations: Enrica Rocca Cooking School , Cookery School at Little Portland Street

8. Plan a Lunch and Learn 

Lunch and Learn sessions have gained popularity in recent years, offering a simple yet effective way to improve professional skills and gain industry insights while enjoying a meal. 

According to research by Indeed , these activities boost employee morale and foster stronger work relationships.

The beauty of lunch and learn events lies in their versatility – topics cover various subjects, from negotiating skills and leadership development to emotional intelligence. To ensure relevance and engagement, consider polling your team to gauge their interests and preferences, then host regular sessions accordingly.

the wildwood room london corporate events

💡 Tip: Expand beyond traditional work-related topics by exploring subjects like the history of a culture or learning to play a musical instrument. By embracing diverse topics and requesting your staff’s opinion on the matter, you create an inclusive learning environment that enriches professional and personal development.

Book the right meeting space for your event

Whether you prefer the cosy atmosphere of a cafe or the professional setting of a conference room, we have meeting spaces to suit your needs.

9. Throw Seasonal Parties 

‘Tis the season for holiday parties – highly anticipated gatherings where employees can set aside their workloads, wear their finest attire, and dance the night away!

Despite the hustle and bustle of the busiest time of year, there’s something magical about the holiday season that puts everyone in high spirits. Show your team appreciation and gratitude with an unforgettable holiday party celebrating their company contributions.

Whether you are hosting a Christmas party or bidding farewell to the year in style, holiday parties are non-negotiable corporate events.

💡 Tip : You can use monthly celebrations as chances for team building events. These festivities can also honour cultural events, like Asian Heritage Month or Women’s History Month.

👉 Here are our top venue recommendations to ensure your celebration shines:

  • The Parlour – Perfect for larger gatherings of over 200 people, The Parlour in Canary Wharf offers style and substance in abundance. With its chic ambiance and spacious layout, it’s the ideal setting for a memorable holiday bash.
  • BFI Southbank – Embrace the classic London vibe at BFI Southbank, where unique private spaces set the stage for a lovely soirée. Indulge in expertly crafted cocktails with a touch of inventiveness, ensuring a night to remember for all attendees.
  • Secret Garden at Exhibit – Transport your team to a winter wonderland at The Exhibit’s Secret Garden. Featuring frosted foliage, twinkling lights, and cosy blankets, this enchanting setting offers the perfect escape from reality. Warm up with indulgent cocktails, including boozy hot chocolates and mulled wine, for a truly festive experience.

the botanist corporate events london

You might also like: 14 Small Office Christmas Party Ideas to Spark Joy , 13 Christmas Party Ideas in London for a Magical 2024 Celebration

Book a venue for your next office party

From quirky spaces to ballrooms, we have something for all party styles! 

10. Build a Learning Culture with Seminars & Workshops 

Let’s face it – for many employees, attending all-day seminars or multi-day conferences can be daunting. 

While the prospect of complimentary food is a plus, more is needed to convince reluctant attendees. Instead, it’s crucial to integrate these learning opportunities into your company culture.

Stepping out of the office to participate in seminars and workshops offers invaluable professional development and job satisfaction benefits. From networking with industry peers to gaining new insights and skills, these experiences are essential for fostering growth and innovation within your organisation . 

code node

💁🏻‍♀️ See our conference planning checklist

Find the best spaces for your next corporate meeting

Whether you are looking for a workshop or product launch venue, we’ve got you covered!

Employee mental health is vital to overall happiness and productivity in the workplace. Incorporating wellness events into your company culture is essential to ensure that your team remains physically and mentally fit.

From yoga sessions to mindfulness workshops, these activities encourage employees to prioritise self-care and cultivate happiness in the workplace. 

Check out our top corporate wellness event ideas !

11. Breathe In, Breathe Out

Research conducted by Queen’s University has consistently shown that yoga and meditation offer many benefits for mental health and well-being in the workplace.

These practices have been found to enhance memory retention, improve attention span, increase productivity levels by enhancing concentration, and reduce stress overall. 

Given these findings, it’s clear that yoga is a useful tool in promoting mental health and happiness among employees in the workplace.

finsbury yoga corporate events london

12. Corporate Retreat at Greenwoods Hotel Spa Retreat 

Escape the routine and treat your team to a rejuvenating retreat at Greenwoods Hotel Spa Retreat. 

This getaway offers employees the chance to recharge in a tranquil setting. During the retreat, participants will share meals, participate in activities, and bond over shared experiences. These moments foster a sense of camaraderie while boosting happiness and trust within the team.

10801 greenwoods hotel spa retreat venue corporate events london 1

💡Tip : For remote employees not to miss out on retreat days, think of organising some activities and allocating some financial compensation for those who cannot attend. 

13. Attend an Improv Class 

Improv classes have gained widespread recognition for good reason – they offer many benefits for individuals and teams alike. By practising active listening, clear communication, and effective collaboration, participants sharpen essential skills invaluable in the workplace.

If you’re seeking an activity that brings your team together, fosters relaxation, and improves communication skills, an improv class could be the perfect fit for your company.

26373 mirrored dance studio room corporate events london

14. Celebrate Employee Appreciation Day

Employee Appreciation Day falls on the first Friday of March each year, providing a perfect opportunity to express gratitude and recognition towards your hardworking team.

There are many ways to show your employees how much they’re valued, from small gestures to grand celebrations.

Consider implementing a Slack or other communication channel dedicated to sharing daily successes and accomplishments, fostering a culture of recognition and positivity year-round. 

Host quarterly recognition parties or organise a dinner party at one of London’s finest venues can provide memorable experiences that make employees feel truly appreciated.

Make shoutouts and appreciation gestures a regular part of your company’s culture, encouraging a positive work environment where individuals feel valued and motivated. 

You might also like: 8 Fun Team Building Activities & Ideas to Improve Your Team’s Morale in 2024

15. Organise Field Days 

London offers a variety of outdoor spaces, such as parks, that are perfect for hosting a field day. 

Team members can participate in various thrilling activities, from relay races and obstacle courses to tug-of-war and team building games. These engaging challenges encourage friendly competition and promote teamwork and trust among colleagues.

5652 the lawns room enhanced corporate events london 1

Check out more ideas for Indoor and Outdoor Team Building Activities!

16. Invite a Guest Speaker

From famous figures like Simon Sinek to inspirational voices like Carla Harris, inviting a guest speaker can add much value to your team’s professional growth.

Guest speakers captivate audiences, share valuable insights, and leave a lasting impression. Their ability to connect with employees on a personal level often surpasses that of senior management or directors.

Whether it’s a corporate conference, educational seminar, or social gathering, guest speakers bring a fresh perspective, inspire innovation, and add value to the overall event experience. Their expertise and wisdom can spark new ideas or motivate teams to learn new things within your organisation.

theatre room london corporate events

You might also like: How to Choose a Conference Venue in 2024

17. Plan an Awards Ceremony

Awards ceremonies are more than just events – they help to recognise and celebrate the achievements of individuals and teams within your organisation. Depending on your company’s culture and preferences, the ceremony can be formal, elegant, relaxed, and laid-back.

By hosting an awards ceremony, you celebrate individual and team wins and reinforce a culture of recognition and appreciation within your organisation. So, gather your team, roll out the red carpet, and prepare to applaud the outstanding achievements that make your company shine.

searcys at the gherkin corporate events london 1

18. Plan Family Fun Days

Typically featuring elements like barbecues, clowns, magicians, and raffles, these events create lasting memories for employees and their families. Beyond the fun and games, family fun days provide coworkers with insight into each other’s personal lives, fostering connections and deeper understanding beyond the workplace.

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You might also like: Top 13 Must-Try Group Activities in London

19. Organise Volunteer Days

Companies often offer employees time off to give back to the community to build a sense of purpose and goodwill among coworkers.

Engaging in volunteer activities not only benefits the broader community but also enhances team morale. Research shows a positive correlation between acts of service and improved mood , making volunteer days a win-win for all involved.

Consider these engaging volunteer activities for your team:

  • Sorting donations at a toy or food drive.
  • Cleaning up litter in local parks or neighbourhoods.
  • Visiting nursing homes to spend time with residents.
  • Participating in charity races or fundraising events.
  • Assisting at animal shelters or rescue organisations.

By participating in these meaningful activities together, your team can make a tangible difference while strengthening bonds and creating lasting memories. Check out this list of volunteering opportunities in London.

You might also like: 9 Unique Ideas That Will Make Your Fundraising Gala a Success .

Organising a corporate event in the capital may seem daunting, but it’s entirely achievable with proper planning and organisation. Collaborating with colleagues and delegating tasks can streamline the process, or you can hire an event planner to ease the burden, provided it fits within your budget. 

Ultimately, the key is to make sure that employees and attendees have a memorable and enjoyable experience, feeling valued and appreciated by their company. With careful attention to detail and a focus on creating a positive atmosphere, your corporate event will surely be a success.

How can I prepare for a corporate event?

Planning a corporate event seems like a big task, but it’s pretty easy if you plan well. You can ask some colleagues for help or hire an event planner. First, decide what the event is for and when and where it’ll happen. Pick a fun theme, determine costs, find the perfect venue, and consider extras like speakers. Check out our 7 tips for making corporate event planning easier.

When should I book a venue for my event?

Start planning early, especially for big events – ideally 10-12 months ahead. Look for a venue about 5-6 months before the event, especially if people need to travel. For smaller events, 3-6 weeks is usually enough time to find a place.

What are some ideas for making a corporate event more engaging?

Incorporate interactive elements like live polls, Q&As, and games to get attendees to participate. Plan unique team building activities that foster collaboration. Offer immersive experiences with VR or AR technology. Set up photo booths and social media sharing stations. Bring an energetic emcee, comedian, or musical guest to liven up the event. Arrange fun networking events like cocktail hours, meals, or parties where people can mingle.

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The best and most daring looks celebrities wore to the 2024 BAFTA Gala

  • The 2024 BAFTA Gala took place in London on Thursday.
  • Celebrities attended the Bulgari-supported event in eye-catching outfits.
  • Slits and plunging necklines were popular on the red carpet. 

Insider Today

Stars gathered for a night of glamour and charitable giving at the BAFTA Gala on Thursday.

Bulgari sponsored the 2024 event, which was held at the Peninsula Hotel in London to raise money for working artists.

Attendees mostly wore black-and-white looks for the gala, and many of the best outfits of the night had a daring flair, like a cutout or thigh-high slit.

Take a look at the most memorable looks of the night.

British radio personality Clara Amfo put a sexy spin on a suit.

what are the best business ideas in london

Amfo's black suit was form-fitting in the bodice and waist, though it had looser sleeves and pant legs for a contrasting silhouette.

The jacket buttoned at her waist, and Amfo wore nothing beneath it, creating a plunging neckline.

Vera Wang's dress featured a built-in hood.

what are the best business ideas in london

Wang walked the red carpet in a white gown with a billowy bodice and a form-fitting skirt with a delicate train.

The neckline sat low on her chest, contrasting with the hood that flowed from the bodice to sit on her head.

Detached black sleeves completed the look, hanging past Wang's hands.

Actor Mia Mckenna-Bruce's dress was made with sheer fabric.

what are the best business ideas in london

Mckenna-Bruce chose an A-line Simone Rocha gown for the BAFTA Gala.

The gown was made of sheer, black fabric, and the skirt featured bow-shaped embellishments to give it a feminine edge. Her sparkly, black bra was visible under the spaghetti-strap bodice.

Holly White styled the look.

Phoebe Dynevor's black gown included a statement bow.

what are the best business ideas in london

Dynevor's form-fitting gown hit her at the ankle, exposing her black pumps. Alessandra Rich designed the dress.

Its white straps scooped into a cutout on the center of the bodice, with a delicate bow tying them together. Nicky Yates styled the look.

Her "Bridgerton" costar Regé-Jean Page accessorized his black suit with a brooch.

what are the best business ideas in london

Styled by Holly Macnaghten, Page wore a black suit to the 2024 BAFTA Gala.

His white top was asymmetrical with no collar, so he didn't wear a tie. A large silver brooch sat on his lapel.

Actor Angelababy wore one of the few colorful looks of the night.

what are the best business ideas in london

Angelababy wore a custom Barney Cheng gown to the gala.

The light-pink dress had a mandarin collar, cap sleeves, and a dramatic train. A sheer overlay with silver embellishments exposed a subtle cutout on her waist.

Architectural detailing made Christina Estrada's black gown stand out.

what are the best business ideas in london

Estrada's figure-hugging black dress was strapless and flowed to the floor.

Three-dimensional pops of fabric jutted out from the neckline and waist, creating volume.

Pegah Pourmand's ensemble featured feather detailing and a thigh-high slit.

what are the best business ideas in london

Pourmand wore a dress from her La Pearlin collection.

The strapless, black bodice had a feather trim, with longer feathers jutting out, while the white skirt tied around her waist with a bow before spilling out to the floor.

The bow formed a thigh-high slit, highlighting Pourmand's white pumps.

Nikki Sharp's dress had daring slits too.

what are the best business ideas in london

Elisabetta Franchi designed Sharp's black gown, which had a form-fitting bodice and off-the-shoulder sleeves.

The full-length skirt had giant slits on each side, separating it into three parts and exposing Sharp's legs. Sparkly black heels completed the look.

Robyn Electra paired a textured minidress with printed tights.

what are the best business ideas in london

Her dress had quarter-length sleeves and was belted at her waist. The entire garment was made of layers of textured tulle.

Black tights adorned with silver stars and black shoes with sparkly silver bows complemented the festive dress.

Actor Layton Williams arrived in a white suit.

what are the best business ideas in london

Williams' white suit included a long blazer, trousers, and white chaps adorned with a floral design and trimmed with tassels.

Coordinating white shoes completed the outfit.

A train spilled out from the waistline of Celeste's dress.

what are the best business ideas in london

Celeste's gown had a scooped neckline that gave way to cap sleeves before flowing into a floor-length skirt.

The dress bubbled at her waist, allowing two swaths of fabric to flow out from each side of the gown like trains.

what are the best business ideas in london

  • Main content

Evening Standard

The best seaside towns near London

B amburgh in Northumberland has just been named the UK’s best seaside resort for the third year running. To which many Londoners may well say: where? Let’s face it, we’re never going to go, and not just because we have no idea where Northumberland is, never mind Bamburgh. But also because we have many fine resorts within relatively easy distance of the capital.

One of the merits of London is that it’s very easy to leave: we have a Monopoly board’s-worth of train stations from which to flee. So whether you’re after oyster shucking in Whitstable or the art scene in Margate, pack the SPF and get out of here.

Obviously, you’ll want to come back — that sea air’s so pure it hurts your lungs — but you can tolerate a day at the beach before you get homesick.

Here, we've rounded up some of the coolest coasts within easy reach of the capital.

What is it? Margate is the perfect example of the decaying seaside town that’s been part reclaimed by hipsters, while still retaining the kind of “gritty” spirit immortalised in song by Chaz and Dave. It’s played artist’s muse throughout the eras: Turner painted Margate, Tracey Emin grew up here, and T S Eliot wrote part of The Waste Land from a shelter in the town centre. Locals call us DFLs (Down From Londons) but are broadly friendly.

Where to go: Drop into the Turner Contemporary ( turnercontemporary.org ) — once you’ve concocted a half-baked sentence about its sculptural lines, Fort’s Café ( fortscafe.co.uk ) is five minutes down the road. One visitor describes it as a Hackney café with Margate prices. Pick the mac ’n’ cheese, or make it in time for the “amazing breakfasts”: heaving full Englishes and dollops of condiments. The Lifeboat ( thelifeboat-margate.com ) is a proper alehouse dispensing Kentish cider and cheeseboards. The Great British Pizza Co ( greatbritishpizza.com ) also recently opened on the sea front. Then wander through the old town and discover the vintage furniture shops, rich in mid-century gems. St Mildred’s Bay is the best beach and Ambrette ( theambrette.co.uk ) is a knockout Indian. And obviously, there’s Dreamland ( dreamland.co.uk ) — Margate’s crowning jewel (sorry, J W Turner): a retro amusement park dispensing new-age fun with a vintage feel.

Where to stay: The Reading Rooms ( thereadingroomsmargate.co.uk ) — a boutique B&B in a converted Georgian townhouse.

Perfect for: Dalstonites who’ve explored all the Ginger line has to offer and hanker for more.

Getting there: Train from Victoria, which takes under two hours.

What is it? Formerly regarded as the less ritzy neighbour of Margate and Broadstairs, this maritime town is slowly offering London weekenders more than attractions specifically designed to torture holidaying school kids (boat trip to the Thanet Offshore Wind Farm, anyone?) and multiple pound shops. Live music and a burgeoning craft-beer scene could yet make it the year, or at least the summer, of the Ram.

Where to go: Penge brewers and south London micropub heroes Late Knights opened only their second bar outside London here last year. The Ravensgate Arms ( @ravensgatearms ) boasts great beer, cider and burgers, a rowdy atmosphere and a bottleshop next door for takeaway drinks. In joining the nearby Ramsgate Brewery ( ramsgatebrewery.co.uk ) they’ve brought hipster hops to the seaside. Elsewhere the Ramsgate Music Hall ( ramsgatemusichall.com ) is luring all sorts of hot young things down for gigs (East India Youth and Sleaford Mods recently performed there, as did Dan Snaith from Caribou) and the Granville Theatre contains a grand 1940s cinema with pleasingly 1980s prices. You should also gawp at the Sinclair C5 in the kitsch computer-themed Micro Museum ( themicromuseum.org ).

Where to stay: The owners of The Barrel Store ( barrelstoremargate.com ), a new boutique self-catering house in Margate, have also put their Ramsgate home, the Gothic Villa (complete with basement cinema), on Airbnb. Prepare to fight like a chip-starved seagull to get it.

Perfect for: Eighties nostalgia-lovers and Trappist-quaffing beer nerds.

Getting there: The train from St Pancras takes one hour 15 minutes.

What is it? A charmingly historic town famous for its pier, castles, streets of higgledy piggdely Fisherman’s cottages, pebble beach and non-naff promenade - think pretty pubs and quaint cafes rather than arcades and theme park rides. Earlier this year, it was voted one of the best places to live by the sea. Clearly Deal-ites are onto something.

Where to go: Deal’s high street is full of hipster-friendly independent gems - there’s a needlework shop, a wine merchant, an antiques shop, a fishmonger, an organic butcher and a vinyl-record shop that also stocks rare craft beers. Once you’ve worn your feet (and your wallet) out, head to Victuals & Co ( victualsandco.com ) - an unassuming little foodie haven down an easily missed alley that’s gotten the nod of approval from the Michelin Guide.

Where to stay: The Admiral’s Rest ( dealcottages.co.uk ) is a boutique bolthole in a pretty pastel Victorian cottage, with the seafront right on your doorstep.

Perfect for: Doortrait Instagrammers looking for a quiet seaside escape.

Getting there: Trains run from London St Pancras to Deal and take 1 hour and 22 minutes.

Southend-on-Sea

What is it? A classic English resort that’s humble about its record-breaking landmark: the world’s longest pier. It’s got a faded hipster glow to it — in the early noughties the “Southend scene” was well documented in Vogue, the NME, Dazed & Confused and Rolling Stone. Its seascape isn’t as beautiful as one of the Kentish vistas but it has its fun: the amusement park Adventure Island and Sea Life aquarium are worth an “ironic” visit.

Where to go: Mangetout ( mangetoutgrill.co.uk ) is the best burger joint with Henry Burgers a close second ( henryburgers.co.uk ). The Pipe of Port ( pipeofport.com ), has “huge” tasty pies, and it also does fine wines and rare ports. Old Leigh is the best place to go on a hot day: get soaked in The Peterboat ( eastangliapubs.com ), The Crooked Billet ( nicholsonpubs.co.uk ) or Ye Olde Smack ( taylor-walker.co.uk ). Black Cat is a cocktail bar hidden round the back of an Italian pizzeria (and so secret it doesn’t have its own website — try irmaspizzeria.com to pinpoint its location). It serves Essex classics (the “Canvey Island iced tea”, for one).

Where to stay: The four-star Roslin Beach Hotel ( roslinhotel.com ) is situated on the Thorpe Bay seafront, overlooking the beach.

Perfect for: Authentic seaside explorers who want more than just Haggerston-on-Sea.

Getting there: It takes just under an hour from Fenchurch Street, or about an hour from Liverpool Street.

What is it? A petite seaside town most notable for its harbour (worth Instagramming) and its oysters — the annual festival started this week. The small streets are teeming with day trippers hunting through charity shops, and the beach is overflowing with boaties and windsurfers.

What to do: Mainly, you’re there for the seafood and the Great Outdoors (and boy does it smell fishy): head to the harbour where you can get oysters and whelks for as little as 20p. The Whitstable Oyster Fishery ( whitstableoystercompany.com ) dishes up molluscs and crustaceans. If that’s a bit slimy for your taste, you probably shouldn’t have gone to Whitstable to start with. Go to Michelin-starred pub The Sportsman ( thesportsmanseasalter.co.uk ) to ruminate on your mistake.

Where to stay: The Crescent Turner ( crescentturner.co.uk ) is boutique and British — the opposite of London. And isn’t that what this whole project was about?

Perfect for: Outdoors types who aspire to graduate from London Fields lido to the open waters of the Channel.

Getting there: Under 90 minutes from Victoria or St Pancras.

Leigh-on-Sea

What is it? A quintessentially English fishing village with traditional cockle sheds, working boats and a tiny sandy beach is London’s closest coastal patch, in neighbouring Essex.

What to do: Head to Cockle Row to munch on local seafood from the clapboard sheds, sink a pint or an artisan gin in the famous Crooked Billet pub ( nicholsonspubs.co.uk ) and try a black sesame ice-cream at Poco Gelato ( pocogelato.co.uk ).

Where to stay: The Westcliff Hotel ( westcliff-hotel.co.uk ) is a classic Victorian inn dating back to 1891 with pretty sea views.

Perfect for: Last-minute Londoners who want to make the most of the sunny weather.

Getting there: Trains from Fenchurch Street to Leigh-on-Sea take 50 minutes.

What is it? “The new Brighton” — drop that back home to make people feel small and mainstream. Its pier has just been tarted up to the tune of £14 million, and it’s throwing on film festivals and farmers’ markets. In fact, screw Brighton — you could basically be in Peckham.

What to do: Visit the Jerwood Gallery ( jerwoodgallery.org ), resplendent in black: current exhibitions include a Quentin Blake and a two-room Lowry extravaganza. The Old Town is full of independent shops: insiders mutter in fevered tones about Warp & Weft ( warpandweftstyling.com ). Get fresh seafood at Rock a Nore Kitchen ( facebook.com/rocakanorekitchen ) and sink drinks at First In Last Out ( thefilo.co.uk ).

Where to stay: The tiny Old Rectory (it has just eight rooms) opens onto a walled garden ( theoldrectoryhastings.co.uk ).

Perfect for: Grown-ups who are getting a bit too old for Brighton (isn’t that what you really mean when you say something is the “new” anything?).

Getting there: It takes 90 minutes from Charing Cross.

Broadstairs

What is it? Broadstairs is Whistable on a grander scale: set in a broad sweep of coastline, it’s dramatically craggy and has a bigger sandy beach and better pubs. Its pursuits are quainter than Margate’s or Southend’s: it holds a Dickens festival every year (people dress up) and a Folk Week music festival in the second week of August (people probably dress up).

Where to go: Do things back to front and start with dessert: Morelli’s ice cream ( morellisgelato.com ) is famous (and comforting if you’re already feeling homesick — it has a concession in Selfridges). Then Wyatt & Jones ( wyattandjones.co.uk ) on the seafront for seafood, followed by a drink at the Chapel ( thechapel-broadstairs.com ), which does ale, wine and cheese sourced from the Garden of England (Kent — make sure you know that). Peen’s Café Bar ( facebook.com/peens.gastrobar ) is a modern jewel in the Victorian seafront — good for watching sunsets.

Where to stay: The Royal Albion ( albionbroadstairs.co.uk ) has been around since the 18th century and has an air of (very) gentle ruin.

Perfect for: Culture vultures with esoteric tastes; anyone who fetishises faded Victorian glamour.

Getting there: Takes just under two hours from St Pancras or Victoria.

What is it? Not the power station, though that’s nearby. Dungeness is on a head of land in east Kent, near an area called Romney Marshes. Admittedly this doesn’t sound promising — but hang in there. Its airstream trailers — a highlight — are like Winnebagos before they went mainstream and even your auntie had taken one to Glasto. It’s in a nature reserve that has a peculiar sparse, bleak, English beauty.

What to do: Visit the late artist Derek Jarman’s cottage ( gardenvisit.com ) — the modular, unusual garden is a vivid gem. The lighthouse is also worth a pilgrimage; and The Pilot Inn ( thepilotdungeness.co.uk ), is “world famous” — it’s the fish and chips wot won it.

Where to stay: To be honest, you could do most of it in a day — though if you insist, try Castaways B&B — you can see France on a clear day ( castawaysdungeness.com ).

Perfect for: Getting away from it all — specifically civilisation as you know it (in its urban form).

Getting there: No direct train, so go to Rye (one hour 15mins from St Pancras) and get the bus from the station.

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