I'm a solo traveller (35/f/Texas) and I'll be in London dec 12 - 16. Staying near holland park in Kensington (but I'm happy to travel throughout london) and I'm looking for two things:

1. Looking for chill friendly places where I can get a half (did I say that right haha) and chat with some other friendly folks. The sheer volume of pubs is amazing but slightly overwhelming. I am friendly and not afraid to chat up welcoming strangers. But if there's a place where single fellas tend to hang out - I'd be interested in that. I'm just not interested in loud crazy can't hear yourself think kind of places.

2. I'd like to do a free (w/o tip of course) walking tour - andy recommendations there? Where's the best spot to grab a good one?