yes, but see my original post about the reality of what you have to do to get a visa. The decision maker has enormous discretion. Simply producing the documents they ask for is insufficient to get you a visa if you are African.
With the UK there is the further hurdle that even when you have the visa the border guard also has to satisfy herself that you are a genuine visitor. At a bare minimum you need a return ticket. If you are visiting a friend, they better be on standby to take a call. You are advised to travel with job contract, housing contract and other proof of your connections to the country where you live.
