Hangover Remedies in London: Quick Relief for Your Morning After
Woke up with a pounding head after a night out in Soho? You’re not alone. London’s fast‑paced scene means a solid cure is a must. Below are practical steps you can take right now, plus the best places in the city to speed up recovery.
First thing: drink water. Alcohol dehydrates you, so gulp a glass of cold water as soon as you can. Add a pinch of sea salt or a squeeze of lemon for electrolytes. If plain water feels boring, grab a sports drink from a nearby Tesco or a 7‑Eleven. The sodium‑potassium balance helps melt the fog faster.
Top Over‑the‑Counter Fixes
Pharmacies on Oxford Street and in Camden stock cheap, effective options. Try a tablet of ibuprofen or paracetamol for the headache—just follow the label and avoid mixing with more alcohol. Vitamin B complexes are popular among club‑goers; they replenish what drinking wipes out. For a stronger boost, pick up a ready‑made hangover kit that combines electrolytes, vitamins, and a mild anti‑nausea component.
If you prefer something natural, reach for a ginger‑lime tea. Boil water, add fresh ginger slices, let it steep, then squeeze in lime juice. The ginger calms the stomach, while the lime adds vitamin C. Many coffee shops in Shore Shoreditch serve this drink alongside their espresso.
Best Spots in London for Hangover Recovery
Food is a lifesaver. Head to a classic English breakfast joint like Yorkshire on King’s Cross for a plate of bacon, eggs, beans, and black pudding. The protein and fat help slow alcohol absorption and give steady energy.
If you’re near Covent Garden, try Dishoom for a spicy biryani bowl. The spices kick your metabolism into gear, while the carbs settle the stomach. For a lighter bite, hit a Sunday market stall for fresh fruit smoothies—berries, banana, and a splash of oat milk work wonders.
London also offers quick body relief. A 15‑minute lymphatic drainage massage in Fitzrovia can reduce swelling and improve circulation, easing the “head‑in‑the‑clouds” feeling. Book through apps like Treatwell; look for therapists who specialize in post‑party recovery.
When you’re ready for a stronger reset, the city’s sauna and steam rooms—such as those in the Sauna at Banya near Waterloo—open early. A short sweat session pushes toxins out through the skin. Follow with a cold shower and a refill of electrolytes.
Don’t forget caffeine, but use it wisely. A single shot of espresso or a cup of black tea can lift you up without causing a crash, especially if paired with a protein bar.
Lastly, give your body time. Even with all the tricks, a few hours of rest will let your liver do its job. Set an alarm for a short nap, keep the lights low, and let your system clear.
With water, a solid breakfast, a quick massage, and a bit of fresh air, you’ll be back to exploring London’s streets in no time. Remember, the city’s got everything you need for a fast hangover fix—just know where to look.
