places to visit london secret

Posted on Published: 24th May 2023  - Last updated: 25th May 2023 Categories Things to do

By: Author Julianna Barnaby

33 Hidden Gems in London – Secret Spots You Have to Discover

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We go in search of the hidden spots that we think deserve a little more credit.

London is a city that pays dividends – if you take the time to invest in it that is. There are so many hidden gems in London that if we’re frank, if you’re not taking the time to explore the city, you are not doing it justice. 

As a tourist, it can be too easy to go through a checklist of the main attractions and think you’ve “seen” London. Hell, even if you’re a local, you know that it is all too easy to get stuck in a rut doing the same old things. 

We’re not throwing shade. Believe us, we are not (well, we kind of are but in the friendliest, loveliest way). 

We’ve all gone through our fair share of “OMFG I love London” and “ugh, I’m so bored – all I wanna do is sit at home and drink tea” phases with this weird and wonderful city we call home. 

Been there, done that

Make no bones about it though, if you’re not discovering secret places in London, you’re only hearing half the story. 

Who wouldn’t want to discover an ancient Roman temple buried in the heart of The City? Or visit one of the highest points in South London where you can soak up some of the best views in the city – get this – in absolute peace and quiet? 

How about a jaunt to the secret garden of an old manor house in… Streatham ?

It’s all very well and good extolling the virtues of exploring the unexplored places in London but who has the time to do all that research? To weed through the copious amounts of chaff to find the stuff that’s really worth doing? 

Ummm, us, that’s who. 

Luckily for you, in the past year we’ve taken it to next levels of dorkiness exploring London off the beaten track and now we’re writing this guide with all of our favourite spots. Many of the entries even link to longer guides so you can find out even more about each spot. 

We told you, next level dorkiness right here. 

Ready to explore for yourself? What are you waiting for? Let’s sit back with a cuppa tea and go get ‘em. 

Take a sneak peek at some of the hidden gems covered in this guide with this cool video !

Hidden Gems in London

Pickering place.

Mayfair might feel like an unlikely place to discover London’s secrets. After all, anyone who has ever heard of The Ritz and Green Park knows that Mayfair’s all about the old-school spenny glamour. 

Well, that’s not wrong but we’ll bet very few of you have ever heard of Pickering Place . Accessed through a small archway, unmarked save for some small lettering you’d certainly miss if you weren’t looking for it, Pickering Place holds the title of England’s smallest square and is one of the best places Julianna discovered when writing her Unusual London book . 

Juicy as that tidbit is, that’s not really what makes it interesting though – that would be the beautiful Georgian architecture that looks like it’s been plucked from straight out of the 18th century and the square’s surprisingly salacious history. 

Like all good and upright parts of town, the residents of Mayfair needed somewhere they could blow off a bit of steam and do things that may or may not have been a little bit illegal. Pickering Place, hidden from prying eyes, was the perfect candidate. 

As such, it found itself as the centre of many a naughty activity including bear baiting, gambling and even duelling. Oh those crazy olden days people. 

It’s also pretty AF #justsaying. 

Leadenhall Market 

While Leadenhall Market has slowly crept onto an increasing number of people’s radars, it’s still unknown enough to warrant a spot on any list of secret places to visit in London. 

Let’s get the big stuff out of the way first – yes yes – Leadenhall was used as a filming location for Harry Potter . If you make believe hard enough, you can almost transport yourself to the world of Harry Potter & The Philosopher’s Stone. 

Exciting as that is, there’s so much more to Leadenhall Market. 

Like the fact that there’s been a market here since the 14th century. At first it was just for butchers and fishmongers (both long gone) before it became one of London’s most important markets. 

The gorgeous gold and red arched architecture bounced onto the scene in the 19th century and now it’s all about high-end shops, ye olde pubs and a few tasty restaurants. Just go

St Dunstan in the East 

If you’re a frequent reader you’ll know that we love St Dunstan in the East. We’ve mentioned it in our Instagrammable London Guide , City of London Guide , Beautiful Places in London piece and now this. 

We’re NOT sorry about it. Not one jot. If we have to keep carping on about St Dunstan in the East until our last breaths before you guys listen to us and go, well, that’s a burden we are willing to carry. 

Whooo, that was one heck of a hype job, no? 

Now that we’ve extolled the virtues of St Dunstan in the East as some of the best hidden architecture in London, we guess we’d better tell you what it is. 

Okay, okay. It’s one of The City’s many mediaeval churches , named after Saint Dunstan (don’t know your saints? He’s the one who defeated the devil by holding him in the face with a pair of tongs…as you do). 

The original church had the misfortune to burn down in the Great Fire of London. It was rebuilt by Christopher Wren , only to be bombed to a shell during The Blitz. 

At this point, the authorities gave up and turned St Dunstan’s into the city’s most unusual park. Aaaand that’s why today you can have lunch in the open-air ruins of a mediaeval church in the heart of the City of London. 

Royal Arcade

A lot of chat goes into Mayfair’s gorgeous shopping arcades, much of it focused on the prestigious Burlington Arcade. 

However, if you stop halfway along Old Bond Street and turn your head at just the right moment, you’ll find the entrance to the Royal Arcade – IOHO the fairest of them all. 

Whether you think this is a hidden secret in London will, we suspect, depend on your penchant for luxury shopping. 

If you’re the kind of person who spends your whole life on Bond Street looking for this season’s must-have designer find, we guess you’ll be rolling your eyes like “goodness, I must go to the Royal Arcade thrice-monthly at least”. Lah-di-dah .

For the rest of you, we’d very much recommend taking the time to stroll through, slack-jawed at the striking Victorian architecture . You’ll thank us when you do. 

Hampstead Hill Garden and Pergola 

Tucked amidst the Golders Green section off Hampstead Heath proper, the Hampstead Hill Garden and Pergola is without a doubt one of the prettiest London secrets of them all. 

We won’t go into the history ( we did that in this guide ): TLDR version, it was built by a philanthropist as the garden to his swish manor where he’d entertain the hoi polloi of London society before becoming a public park later in the 20th century). 

Who really cares when the end result looks like the Garden of Eden but with more OTT architectural flourishes? 

Bonus points if you visit during wisteria season when the very sight of it has been known to reduce grown women to the kind of ecstatic hysteria normally reserved for children and a pile of presents at Christmas. 

Nunhead Cemetery 

Tired of trying to get yourself organised enough to book tickets for the much talked-up Highgate Cemetery ? 

Well, it might interest you to know that Highgate is just one of the “Magnificent Seven” Victorian cemeteries that encircle what was then the outer peripheries of London… 

Meaning there are six other cemeteries where you can go and get your Victorian gothic, hauntingly beautiful graveside fix (which all sounds a bit wrong really). 

Of them all, Nunhead Cemetery is one of the least visited but we’d say the most enchanting. Left to go wild during the second half of the 20th century, it’s been transformed into a wildlife reserve. 

Exploring is a matter of meandering on narrow paths ducking under trees and above graves – all in perfect peace and quiet.

London Mithraeum 

Far from the stuffy suit-fest some people assume it to be, the financial district of The City of London is filled with hidden treasures including many a Roman ruin. 

Still, the Temple of Mithras is without a doubt the best – thanks to the fact that when you visit you experience a full-on recreation of temple worship complete with dimmed lights, chanting and atmospheric smoke. Tres bizarre. 

It’s all a bit strange. The temple was dedicated to the god Mithras, only worshipped by a devout (some say a bit cray cray) cult of male followers who’d sacrifice live bulls in his honour. 

So when the lights go down and the chanting starts, don’t be surprised if you get just the tiniest shiver down your spine. It is weiiiiiiiiiird but in a good way. 

Entrance to the Mithraeum is free but you do have to book timed tickets to ensure the experience isn’t overbooked. 

There’s also an interesting exhibition on the history of London from its Roman times as Londinium onwards to mooch about in so allow plenty of time to go and discover.

Streatham Rookery 

We always enjoy talking about Streatham Rookery . You know, the kind of smile that slides onto your face when you’re trying not to humblebrag that you know something the listener doesn’t, but you kind of are humblebragging all the same. 

Consider this one of those moments. 

What’s to brag about? 

Well, to be honest, most people haven’t ever heard of the Streatham Rookery, and those that have mainly live in Streatham but it’s one of the darned prettiest little gardens in South London all the same. 

If that doesn’t count as one of the hidden things to do in London, we don’t know what does. 

The gardens, while small, really burst into bloom in the summer months – the White Garden here is said to have inspired that at Sissinghurst and there are enough pergolas and flower-filled beds to keep even the most demanding ‘Grammer busy for hours. 

Cecil Court 

There’s something straight up magical about Cecil Court . 

Maybe it’s the fact that, despite being sandwiched between Covent Garden and Charing Cross Road, entering feels like stepping into the Narnia wardrobe. 

The pushing crowds and ugly buildings disappear, replaced with a quaint series of booksellers, Victorian facades and still-functioning gas lamps. It couldn’t feel more different to heaving Trafalgar Square around the corner. 

Rumour even has it that Cecil Court provided the inspiration for Diagon Alley in J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter books (though others will argue until they’re blue in the face that the title should go to nearby Goodwin’s Court instead). 

The plot really does thicken when you find out that many of the bookshops on the court are dedicated to magic and the occult. Maybe bring your wand just in case. 

One Tree Hill 

We have to be honest, One Tree Hill does so well at being one of the secret things to do in London that we hadn’t even heard of it until earlier this year, let alone visited. 

We were passing an old history book around the office (because we really know how to have a good time in our downtime) and saw mention of it. 

So we decided, like any good, inquisitorial journalist / nosey person to read up a bit more and lo. Only goes and turns out that it’s one of the coolest viewing points in London .

Nestled at the top of a (rather steep) woodland-covered hill, once you puff your way up to the top of One Tree Hill, you are treated to some rather striking views of the city skyline framed by the treeline. It’s too perfect and we love it. 

That’s not where the story ends though. The name supposedly comes from a tree that Elizabeth I rested under as she took refuge here on a journey through the Great North Wood that used to cover most of South London. 

You can even see the very spot as it’s marked by a plaque. 

Leake Street Tunnel 

Underneath the behemoth that is Waterloo Station, in the bowels of the maze of arches that crisscross below the ground, you’ll find another of London’s cool spots – Leake Street Tunnel . 

Now, it’s no secret that we love street art. We *may* have been known to wake up at the crack of dawn and trek across the city because we’ve heard rumour of a new piece going up and want to get up there and see it while it’s fresh and shiny. Obsessed. 

So it was pretty much a given that we’d love London’s largest legal street art wall – Leake Street Tunnel. 

The tunnel was started as part of a street art festival masterminded by Banksy in the noughties and it’s been going strong ever since. 

At any given time, you’re all but guaranteed to see at least a few new pieces in the making and there are opportunities aplenty to gawp at the sheer talent displayed by many of these artists. 

Read More: The Best Street Art in London: The London Graffiti Guide

The Seven Noses of Soho

You can always rely on Londoners to do a weird thing or two… like sticking up plaster moulded noses on buildings all over central London and not owning up to the fact that it was you and why you did it for almost two decades. 

You’d think that was a pretty far-fetched story but that’s exactly what happened with the Seven Noses of Soho . 

Artist Rick Buckley created the noses as a protest about the growing use of CCTV across London and stuck them all over buildings in Soho and the West End. 

Most of the noses were removed but seven (now six) remained in Soho. All kinds of theories sprung up about the noses and why they were created until Buckley finally fessed up and explained in (wait for it) 2011 – a mere 14 years after the fact. 

Want to find them? Read our handy guide (hint: there’s a map to help you along with the task)

Mercato Mayfair 

We’ll level with you – Mercato Mayfair is one of the best hidden gems in London… for now. 

The sister of Elephant & Castle’s Mercato Metropolitano opened in the beautiful setting of a converted church that makes quiet the setting for lunch. That said the venue still doesn’t garner as much attention as the E&C location does. 

That means you can go and enjoy the delicious street food and *cough cough* boozy drinks in the golden main hall in a relatively crowd-free setting – or at least without the hoards that you’d expect elsewhere. 

Not gunna lie though, places like this in London don’t stay quiet for long, especially at the weekend – Don’t shoot the messenger if it turns out to be less hidden gem and more battle through these crowds again. 

Upstairs at Rules 

It might seem weird for us to say that the city’s oldest restaurant is one of the secret spots in London, but bear with me… because I’m not talking about the restaurant itself, we’re talking about its absolutely jaw-dropping upstairs bar. 

You see, while many people have heard of Rules, not that many have heard that the upstairs bar is not only one of the best places for cocktails in London but is also hiding a winter garden that is worth losing your sh*t over. 

How would you like to have drinks amidst a jungle of palm fronds, flowers and rather delicious baroque decor in a light-filled conservatory? Thought so. 

We always grapple with the selfish part of us that doesn’t want to share London secrets like Upstairs at Rules because we thoroughly enjoy having it as our go-to Covent Garden drinking spot … but here we are, selfless as ever, sharing away. 

Just remember that if it ever comes down to us being contenders for the last table. 

St James’s Palace 

Did you know that just around the corner from the Georgian monstrosity that is Buckingham Palace (IOHO, too blocky, no elegance), there’s another palace that not that many people have even heard of? 

St James’s Palace is a royal palace dating all the way back to the Tudor times. In fact, large parts of the original palace built by Henry VIII still survives today. 

That sounds pretty epic. Even by London standards where our attitude to old stuff is decidedly lax because there’s just so much of it. 

So why isn’t more fuss made over St James’s Palace? The answer is pretty simple… because you can’t actually go inside. 

Unlike Buckers and other Royal Palaces, St James’s Palace is rarely (read: never) open to the public… but you can see large parts of the palace buildings without going inside. 

Simply walk down The Mall from Buckingham Palace and turn left into St James’s and take a wander to look at the palace from all angles. 

The Coach & Horses Pub 

We’ll make you a bet. 

Clear your mind’s eye and think of an old London pub – we’re talking really old. What does it look like? Which part of town is it in? Got it? 

Now open them. How close did it look to this?

Pretty close right? 

If we’re talking looks alone, The Coach & Horses is, without a doubt, one of the cutest pubs in London. 

The Tudorbethan building may look distinctly at odds with its surroundings but it’s thought that this is actually the oldest building on Bruton Street. 

While it is something of a secret spot, we’ll warn you that the locals are well and truly in the know. The pub only seats 50, so you’ll need to get there early if you actually want to grab a pew inside. 

Halkin Mews 

Can we level with you? It took us a long time to get on board with the mews brigade. 

We’re still not 100% convinced by the fact that what ultimately used to be stables for horses have somehow become some of the most expensive residences in an already expensive city… but that’s London for you. 

Still, there’s no denying that some of London’s mews are rather attractive – but as they pop up on the ‘gram with increasing frequency, some of them are starting to feel like a rather boring slow-mo circus of awkwardly posed models. 

That’s exactly why Halkin Mews is such a gem. Not only is it in cutesy Belgravia and one of the best looking mews in London, but it’s not that well-known so you can have a look around in peace. 

Eltham Palace 

London has no shortage of hidden palaces (see St James’s above) but we guarantee that you’ve never seen one quite like Eltham Palace before. 

This former royal palace used to be a favourite until Henry VIII decided he liked his one at Greenwich better and it was sold off during the Commonwealth period before falling into disrepair for centuries. 

It all sounds very sad, but that’s not where the story ends. 

Eltham Palace was bought in 1931 by the wealthy Stephen Courtauld who started a period of transformation and extension that led to some of the best-preserved Art Deco interiors you can find today. 

Add to that a series of moated gardens and you maybe start to see why this is one of the hidden gems of London you should make time to visit. 

Barbican Conservatory

Whether you love or loathe The Barbican, London’s biggest cultural centre, really boils down to how you feel about Brutalist architecture . 

Even if you hate it (and many people do), you should go and seek out the Barbican’s stunning conservatory  to see if it will change your mind. 

We can’t see how you can resist just the smallest amount of wonder as you poke around through thousands of exotic plants, vines trailing from the upper levels and greenery winding between the concrete structures. We just can’t… but you do you boo. 

The Conservatory used to only be open on Sundays but it’s currently open every day (booking only). Whether that’s a long term change is unclear but you should grab the chance to go. 

City of London Distillery 

London’s love of gin is one of the worst kept secrets of all time. 

In fact, the city had such a problem with the clear stuff in the 18th Century that there’s a bonafide period in London’s history known as the Gin Craze (go look it up if you don’t believe us). 

Though it fell out of favour for a while, gin is well and truly back on London’s menu. New distilleries have popped up all over town, but few are as brilliant as the City of London Distillery. 

First of all, you’ll find The City of London Distillery down the quaint St Bride’s Lane just off Fleet Street. Walk down into its underground enclave and it gets better – there’s a cool bar from which you can watch their treasured still, Betty, do her work. 

Crossness Pumping Station 

On the face of it Crossness Pumping Station sounds kind of… boring. Or gross. You can take your pick. 

If you said to us that we’d get excited about a pumping station that formed part of London’s sewage system, we’dhave raised an eyebrow to say the least. 

Proving that you can never underestimate the Victorian ability to make even the most functional structure a work of beauty, a visit to Crossness Pumping Station truly is one of the unique things to do in London. 

The interior features the kind of wrought-iron workmanship that’s all

The Tulip Stair 

Greenwich is home to so many London landmarks – The Cutty Sark and The Observatory among them – that it can be easy to leave it at that. 

You’d be missing out though. 

Take the Queen’s House: the first wholly classical building in England that now contains one of the city’s most important art collections – yet not that many people have heard of it, let alone been. 

The house is also where you’ll find the gorgeous Tulip Stair , so called because of the intricate tulip motifs on the iron railings. The first cantilevered spiral staircase in the UK, the Tulip Stair is an architectural feat… but it doesn’t hurt that its graceful beauty is one of the prettiest spots in town either. 

Or that it might be haunted…

The Horniman Museum 

London’s never short on a museum or gallery, which perhaps explains why it’s generally only locals who make it to The Horniman Museum in Forest Hill. 

This is so much more than a local museum. Created by wealthy tea merchant Frederick Horniman in 1891, the diverse and interesting collections are a bit like the Natural History Museum in a smaller and more digestible format. 

There are aquatic displays, musical instruments, ethnography, natural history – all thoughtfully curated and engagingly presented. It really is one of the most underrated things to do in London. 

Once you’re finished in the museums proper, take some time to mooch around the 16 acres of gardens. 

At their apex you’ll discover sweeping views into central London, while the terraced levels contain a series of treasures including a Sound Garden and an Animal Walk filled with living natural history specimens.

Garden at 120 

The City’s Sky Garden gets no shortage of attention from locals and visitors alike, but just down the road, The Garden at 120 is one of London’s hidden gems. 

Perhaps it’s because it’s newer (it only opened at the beginning of 2019), perhaps it’s because people just don’t know about it. 

Whatever the reason, you should totally take advantage of this tranquil spot. 

Situated on the 15th floor of 10 Fenchurch Avenue, the Garden is a quiet oasis of peace in the otherwise busy city. 

Of course, given the fact that it’s smack bang in the centre of The City, it’s no surprise that it also happens to boast some rather special views of central London either. 

Go and enjoy a unique vantage point of landmarks including The Gherkin and St Paul’s Cathedral.

Holly Village, Highgate

It’s not difficult to see what inspired so many poets, writers and intellectuals to live in Highgate. 

Best described as a village that got sucked up into London, the area has retained its rural feel. Not least because it borders onto Hampstead Heath , the finest stretch of countryside in London if there is such a thing. 

If Highgate itself can be described as one of the less known places in London, wait until you see the opulent Victorian Gothic architecture of Holly Village . 

Dating to the 1860s, it was designed for Angela Burden-Coutts, then the second richest woman in Britain (number one was Queen Victoria in case you wondered). 

Even though the grounds of this “village within a village” are private, you can still take a look at the neo-Gothic architecture from the ornate entranceway. 

Ye Olde Mitre

Ye Olde Mitre bills itself as one of the most difficult to find pubs in London and, you know, they might just be right. 

Though the likelihood of you accidentally stumbling across this pub are about 0.00001% it’s the fact that it’s so well hidden that makes it one of London’s best kept secrets. 

On the cusp of Farringdon and Holborn, the pub just so happens to be one of London’s historic drinking holes – there’s been a pub on these grounds since 1546 at least. 

At night, the small courtyard is shrouded in fairy lights, beckoning for you to ensconce yourself in a cosy nook, pint in hand. 

Bonus points if you see the tree stump around which Queen Elizabeth I is said to have danced when it formed a part of the garden of one of her favourite subjects, Christopher Hatton. 

Oriole 

There’s nothing us Londoners love more than telling people about a great little place we know. Maybe that’s why the speakeasy scene has practically exploded here in the past decade (that and the fact that we ruddy love a good cocktail). 

Still, while some places like the Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town and Nightjar have made their way onto most people’s radars, others like Oriole have stayed relatively low-key. 

Serving decadent drinks with live jazz in a fin-de-siecle interior, Oriole is everything you want from a secret bar in London – hush hush, fancy and not afraid to shake up some adventurous tipples. 

It’s ensconced underneath Smithfield Meat Market behind a rather unprepossessing door. Don’t worry, if you think you’ve found the right place, you probably have. 

Cross Bones Burial Ground 

With the exception of Nunhead Cemetery, so far I’ve steered away from the city’s more macabre spots, but Cross Bones Burial Ground is one of the secret places in London that truly fascinates us. 

If you’re easily creeped out, this probably isn’t for you – if not though, read on. 

You see, the whole of the South Bank area used to be a breeding ground of rather scandalous occupations – whoring, gambling, fighting – it all used to happen on the South Bank. There were brothels aplenty, as well as some of the city’s poorest slums. 

Many of those poor and all of the prostitutes were buried on a small plot of unconsecrated land near to The Shard – Cross Bones Burial Ground.

In fact, over 15,000 bodies were buried here over time, until inner city burials were banned in the Victorian times. 

These days, there’s a small garden on the site, wreathed in flowers and trinkets. The Cross Bones Society also holds a monthly remembrance ceremony / seance on the site to commemorate the outcasts of society. 

British Library Reading Rooms

Euston 

You’re probably aware of the British Library. It’s a bit of a Meca for people trying to find a quiet spot to get productive in the city centre, and an iconic place in its own right. Do you know about its reading rooms though?

These are special areas of the library that aren’t accessible to the general public. That is unless you have a reader’s card… 

Getting one is super easy and takes no more than 15 minutes. All you need is a proof of address and some ID. You can register online here and then go in to pick up the card. 

Once you’ve got your reader’s card you can access all the previously inaccessible rooms. In them you’ll find plenty of empty desks and supreme quiet – something that’s missing from the BL’s main public areas. 

The rooms are also full of great books on pretty much every subject you can think of. Best of all though, that card also gives you access to the library’s archives and you can request to see anything they’ve got in their cavernous storage chambers – chambers that have a copy of every book published in The UK for the past 250 years. 

Thank us later, bookworms.

The Painted Hall 

Greenwich 

Greenwich already made it into this guide for The Tulip Stair. It’s about to make a second win for The Painted Hall . The place is a bit of a marvel of design, but if you’re into minimalism you’re not going to like it. 

The Painted Hall is part of the Old Royal Naval College and actually functioned as a sort of dining room, a place for officers to chow down away between classes. Does it even bare saying that the room had to be fit for the men that lead the empire into battle? 

By 18th Century standards that meant fluted columns reminiscent of the reason of Ancient Athens (or would it be the might of Imperial Rome?) and a ceiling that evokes the Sistine Chapel: Far above you on that high ceiling is an enormous mural painted by Sir James Thornhill that depicts heroic fragments of English history, kings, battles, inventions. 

The space is pretty incredible, but not one that most Londoners will have made time to go and see. It’s also conveniently close to the Tulip stairs so you can tick two places on this guide off your list at once. 

The Silver Vaults

The City of London 

You may have been to Hatton Gardens – London’s diamond district – but have you ever heard of The Silver Vaults ? 

They are a massive series of subterranean silver markets and shops on Chancery Lane. You wouldn’t know to look for if you just walked past the door, it’s the sort of place you have to search out for yourself. 

If you’re smart enough to find it you’ll be able to feast your eyes on a staggering amount of silver (literally you almost need sunglasses to look directly at some of these rooms) 

All this stuff is on sale, so if you find something you like and you’ve got a few quid to spare you can even treat this as a shopping trip. Perhaps there’s a special someone who would really like a piece of some of this precious metal…

There we are: 33 hidden places in London for you to explore. 

We hope you have even a smidgen as much fun exploring these as we did! There’s so much to see in this city that you can’t help but get a little too excited when you find a new spot you’ve never heard of. 

If you love this guide, we can pretty much guarantee you’ll love the Unusual London book, which features over 115 places in the city waiting to be discovered. Check it out .  

Secret Places in London: Map

Here’s a map of the places featured in this guide – enjoy your adventures!

Looking to See More of London Off the Beaten Track?

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Hidden Gems of London That Most Tourists Never See (+ Map)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 23, 2024

Even people who have never been to London can tell you what the main highlights of the city are. Who hasn’t heard of the London Eye, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, or Buckingham Palace… But if you are looking for a more unique and local experience and want to discover a different side of London off the beaten path, you may like this selection of some of the less visited secret places  – the hidden gems of London.

Recently we’ve had such a great time exploring London with kids and we had been to London several times in the past, but I am in no way an expert on the secret places in London. Therefore, in addition to our cool finds in London, I also asked my fellow travel bloggers to share their favorite hidden gems of London .

Some of these places are suggested by the locals who live (or lived) in London for many years. Some others – by people who live nearby and consider London their second home. Other suggestions are from tourists like you and I, who found some really cool places that made their visit to London more memorable.

UPDATE: Inspired by all the hidden gems of London in this article, I went to explore these and many other secret places of London that most tourists never see. This article started with a few secret spots in London and has been updated over the years to highlight more interesting lesser known places in London.

Unfortunately, some places also closed down and had to be removed from our selection. At the moment of the last update, this guide contains 33 amazing places that will show you a different side of London and make your visit so much more special.

London is an incredible city hiding countless hidden gems and there is no way to see them all. So each of these hidden gems is carefully selected and we include only the most special, cool, unique places that are truly worth your time.

I’m not telling you to skip the highlights of London – they are all well worth visiting, especially if you are traveling to London for the first time . But if you want to travel deeper and experience the local side of this beautiful city, then this list of hidden gems will give you plenty of ideas for more unusual places to see in London.

If you make an effort to visit at least a few places mentioned in this article, it will make your trip to London even more special and truly unforgettable. These hidden gems will show you a very different side of London and will make you fall in love with this incredible city even more. London is truly one of a kind.

From the most colorful neighborhoods, quirky pubs and cafes, a variety of gardens and parks, to some of the best views or unexpected activities – here you’ll find plenty of ideas on how to experience London off the beaten path. Find out!

Good to know: To make your travel planning a bit easier, I made a map featuring all of the locations mentioned in this post . You can find it at the bottom of this post. It should help you to combine visiting the main landmarks with some of the hidden gems of London, and create your own itinerary including some of these less known places to visit in London.

TIP: Before we continue to the best hidden gems of London, I want to share a few highly-rated guided tours that take you a bit off the beaten path in the city . If you are looking for even more cool, unusual, and secret places in London and don’t want to spend hours researching where to go, check them out via the links below.

Top 4 Secret London Tours:

• Secret London Bike Tour .
• Secret British Food Tour .
• Street Art & Graffiti Tour .
• Secrets of London Walking Tour .

Without further ado, these are some of the best hidden gems of London :

1. Saint Dunstan in the East

Originally built in the 11-12th centuries and refurbished several times after that, Saint Dunstan in the East is my personal favorite of the hidden gems of London. 

This medieval church was partially destroyed during WWII and the Anglican church decided not to rebuild it.

What’s left is an incredibly successful architectural project where the remaining walls of the church have been incorporated into a pretty little garden. It’s a green quiet oasis and one of the absolute best secret finds during my most recent trip to London.

The Church of Saint Dunstan is located in between the Tower of London and London Bridge. Despite being so close to some of the major London attractions, it’s an incredibly peaceful and tranquil place where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. This hidden gem is just 10 minutes walk from Tower Bridge – don’t miss it when in London!

2. Little Venice

Sleepy Little Venice is a series of tree-lined canals that many tourists miss during their London trip. Spanning from Hyde Park to Warwick Avenue, it’s near enough to the city center that you can squeeze it in between other attractions.

What makes Little Venice unique is that it’s completely unlike anywhere else in the city: colorful canal boats roam the waterways, and many serve as tearooms and cafes. Afternoon tea or brunch on a London canal boat – does it get more memorable than that?

Visit any location between Paddington and Camden Town to see Little Venice for yourself. The popular cafe boats, Darcie & May Green and Waterside Cafe, are located near Paddington, while Camden is a great place to wander the locks and board a water bus boat trip (these are very nice and a great way to see more of the area!).

TIP: One of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon in London is to walk the whole Little Venice towpath which takes about an hour (set your route on Google Maps between Paddington and Camden Lock Market or vice versa, and select ‘walking’). You’ll see some animals as you pass behind the London zoo, and admire funky-painted houseboats the whole way.

Little Venice is recommended by Rose from Where Goes Rose .

3. The Painted Hall

I have to say that I wasn’t sure if the Painted Hall belongs on the list of  the best places to see in London or the secret places of London. However, since it took me years and several trips to London to find out about it, I assume that it’s still not very widely known. So I think it deserves a mention as one of the absolute-best hidden gems of London.

Located inside The Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich (and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Painted Hall has just recently been restored to all its previous glory. It’s been its 10th and most successful renovation so far. The moment you catch the first glimpse of it, it will take your breath away.

Painted by James Thornhill between 1707 and 1726, this spectacular ceremonial dining room is a real masterpiece of English Baroque art. The entire hall, covering over 3700 sq. meters is painted by hand. This incredible piece of art displays the power and prestige of Britain to the rest of the world. Even today it looks absolutely impressive; I can just try to imagine what kind of an impression it left on people back in the 18th century…

The Painted Hall is one of the most incredible places I have visited in London and I can thoroughly recommend that you take a trip to Greenwich just to see this. It will be absolutely worth it! You can just get tickets and visit on your own, but a guided tour is very affordable too and gives you a better appreciation of this unique place.

TIP: London hop-on hop-off bus ticket of 48 hours or longer includes a river cruise to Greenwich as well. It’s a great way to see the highlights and the hidden gems of London in just a few days.

LEARN MORE: Visiting the Painted Hall

4. Spitalfields and Brick Lane

Spitalfields and Brick Lane is an area of London that I often find myself feeling too conspicuously uncool for. The rawness of Brick Lane, coupled with the exotic smells from the infamous curry houses is like nowhere else in London.

You won’t be able to stop yourself from lingering. Grab a salted beef bagel from one of the Jewish delis at the top (people queue for these!) and slowly wander down Brick Lane taking the occasional side street or alleyway to check out some world-famous street art, eclectic vintage stores, and the best chocolate shop (Dark Sugars) in London.

You’re in Jack The Ripper territory now. And there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about the serial killer by visiting some of the old English pubs he frequented in Victorian times: slightly scary but equally fascinating!

Finish off with a little shopping trip to Spitalfields Market and treat yourself to some of London’s finest handcrafted wares. I’m telling you – Spitalfields and Brick Lane area has it all!

TIP: This area is well-known as Jack the Ripper territory. A unique way to explore the dark side of London is by taking a Jack the Ripper interactive tour with a local guide . Walk in the footsteps of Jack the Ripper and inspect the murder sites (and try to solve the unsolved murders on this immersive experience). See The Old Bailey, where the Elephant Man lived and where Braveheart was tortured, and hear stories that will show you a very different side of London, one that most tourists never see or hear of…

If you rather explore this quirky part of London in daylight and with more colors, check out this highly-rated street art tour . It ends at the Spitalfields Market where you’ll find plenty of great food options.

This quirky neighborhood in London was chosen as one of the best hidden gems by Alex from My Life Long Holiday. You can read more about Spitalfields and Brick Lane on her blog.

5. Neal’s Yard

If you love walking around aimlessly looking for colorful streets, pretty corners, secret bookstores, and quiet tea shops, then you will love discovering London.

One of the best secret finds in London is a small alley called Neal’s Yard . It opens into a courtyard defined by colorful facades housing health food shops and cafés, just a few minutes walk from the Covent Garden train station. Just walk up Neal Street until Short Gardens and turn left, you will enter a little gem tucked away from the usual modern setting.

The place may seem small, but being there separates you away from the busy atmosphere of London. You can have a snack, coffee, even lunch quietly while admiring the surroundings and watching people just go by. There are wooden chairs around the courtyard you can sit on to take a perfect selfie with the quaint features as your background.

Neal’s Yard is also known for its values-driven retailers, you can buy organic soaps and beauty products, organic cheese, as well as homecoming gifts for friends and family from the various shops.

Good to know: Neal’s Yard is located next to Covent Garden, close to Trafalgar Square and many other top attractions. So it’s really easy to include this hidden gem in your London itinerary, even if you have just one or two days in London .

This hidden gem of London was selected by Marie from Our City Travels .

6. The Vaults

The Vaults , sometimes also called Waterloo Vaults are hidden underground tunnels deep under the famous Waterloo Station in Central London. It’s a fascinating place that hides many more secrets than you’d think at first sight.

Located at Leake Street at the back side of Waterloo Station, the Vaults can be found inside a colorful graffiti tunnel. Despite all the associations with darkness, underground, and alternative lifestyle, it actually feels like a very safe and welcoming place.

If you love street art and quirky different things, then you should definitely not miss this secret place in London. It’s an ever-changing sight and when we visited there were many artists painting and repainting the walls and the ceilings of the main tunnel. This tunnel, located on Leake Street, is open to the public and you can visit any time. If you bring some paint, you could easily add your own masterpiece as well.

Inside the colorful Leake Street tunnel, you can also find Waterloo Vaults. It’s a sort of event venue for anything and everything unusual. Waterloo Vaults is a place for concerts, theater performances, parties, and so much more. Private events are also possible. On their website, you can find the most recent event calendar .

The nearby pub, Vaulty Towers, also has a very unique decor and is a great place if you fancy a drink or a quick meal. The pub is open daily (except for some public holidays), from noon on.

Good to know: Because of its very central location, just a short walk from the London Eye, you can easily include this colorful graffiti tunnel in pretty much any London itinerary. For example, take a look at our 1-day London itinerary for inspiration on how you could plan your time and make even a short visit to the city a bit more special.

TIP: If you enjoy street art and graffiti , consider taking a guided tour with a local . There are so many amazing street art locations in London, plus, you visit some local neighborhoods that you wouldn’t see otherwise. There are also tours with workshops – may you want to try some graffiti art yourself!

7. Tulip Stairs

The Tulip Stairs are probably the most aesthetically pleasing of all the hidden gems of London mentioned in this article. Located inside the 17th-century Queen’s House in Greenwich, the sweeping staircase is considered one of the most beautiful spiral staircases in the world.

What makes the Tulip Staircase unique is that these are the first centrally unsupported stairs built in England. The blue wrought-iron railing has flowers in it and for a long time, they were described as tulips, which also gave the name to the Tulip Staircase.

However, it is now believed that the flowers are actually lilies, the royal flowers of France, and were used in compliment to Henrietta Maria of France. She took charge of completing the construction of the Queen’s House after the passing of the previous queen. 

The entrance to the Queen’s House is free of charge, so if you are visiting Greenwich and have a few minutes to spare, don’t miss this incredible gem.

TIP: Combine the visit to the Tulip Stairs with the other hidden gems of London located in Greenwich – the Painted Hall and the Greenwich Foot Tunnel.

LEARN MORE: Tulip Stairs & Queen’s House in Greenwich

8. Sky Garden

Sky Garden’s free and amazing views of London is one of my favorite London gems. It is a public space with landscaped gardens, observation decks, and an open-air terrace located at the top of 20 Fenchurch Street, the building known as ‘The Walkie-Talkie’.

Sky Garden might be a hidden gem not known to most London visitors, but it’s still a very popular place, with locals and tourists alike.

The bird’s eye views of London are gorgeous. Sky Garden is a great place for dinner, or you can just grab a drink at the rooftop bar. There is also a botanical garden that you can explore while you take in the views of the city. When you peer through the windows, there are super helpful decals with the names of the major buildings that can be seen from here.

PRO TIP: Walk-in spaces are limited, so it’s best to get a ticket. The free tickets are released online a week in advance, are very sought-after, and you have to be really quick to get one! For more practical information and booking check the Sky Garden website .

This free hidden gem of London was chosen by Constance from  The Adventures of Panda Bear .

READ ALSO: Best Views in London

9. Sir John Soane’s Museum

Cool, crazy, incredible, extravagant, fascinating… There are no words to fully describe one of the most unusual places in London – Sir John Soane’s Museum . What a museum!

Sir John Soane (1753-1837) was an architect and art collector, who used his own house in order to test all kinds of architectural ideas. After his death, his house became a museum and it’s said to house over 45000 art objects, all collected by its extravagant owner.

From the moment you enter the house of Sir John Soane, you’ll be awe-struck by this crazy labyrinth of narrow corridors and rooms. It looks as if every single square inch is in use one way or another and even the ceilings are covered with sculptures, paintings, and other decorative objects.

The spaces are so narrow that you aren’t allowed to bring any big objects with you and will be asked to put your purse or a small backpack in a plastic bag, just to avoid damaging something by coincidence. Please note that photography is not allowed inside, but you can find nice images on the website of the museum. The image featured here is courtesy of the museum and is a good representation of what you can expect to find inside.

If you are looking for something different to do in London, Sir John Soane’s Museum won’t disappoint. The entrance to the museum is free. It’s open daily from Wednesday to Sunday. You can find all the practical information here .

10. Silver Vaults

Silver Vaults was another very unique find on my recent trip in search of London’s hidden gems. This secret place in London was recommended to me by one of our followers on Facebook. Since I was just nearby, I decided to check it out without having the slightest idea of what to expect. It completely blew me away…

Literally hidden deep under the ground beneath Chancery Lane, the Silver Vaults are exactly what the name suggests – a series of highly secured vaults filled with silver. The Silver Vaults of London host the world’s largest retail selection of silver. It’s a sort of underground market for the rich and the famous.

Built back in 1876 as a storage place for jewelry, documents, and household silver, it is now home to over 30 shops selling all kinds of silver artifacts. You’ll discover more silver items than you ever thought possible – everything from silverware, silver trays, silver dining sets to silver jewelry, and even bigger household items like lamps, mirrors, or even a BBQ set…

Some of the silver you’ll see here is antique, some – recent modern design. They all have one thing in common, though – high price tags. We were told that Hollywood stars and other VIPs are regular customers, but everyone is just as welcome.

We talked to a couple of salesmen there and they all seem to be doing it for generations. One guy told us that his grandma was among the first people who started trading in silver at the London Silver Vaults. It really feels like a place with a unique history. Such an interesting find in London. 

The Silver Vaults are open every day except on Sunday and bank holidays, from 9 till 5. 30 PM (till 1 PM on Saturday). The entrance is free of charge.

11. The Churchill Arms

One of our favorite places to visit in London that not many people know about has to be The Churchill Arms. Located in the Notting Hill area of the city, Churchill Arms is a pub with a beautiful array of floral decorations.

Spring is one of the best times to visit as you can see the flowers in full bloom, although the pub is incredibly beautiful at any time of year. In fact, at Christmas, the festive spirit is in full swing with Christmas Trees and lights having their moment to shine.

The Churchill Arms is probably one of the most photographed pubs in London, and when you see it for yourself, it is easy to understand why. Originally there were only a few hanging baskets and I guess you could say it has since blossomed into a lot more.

To get here, you will need to get the tube to Notting Hill Gate Station, and it is a short 5-minute walk from there. The Churchill Arms really is a special place to visit in London and we highly recommend you make the time for it if you like unusual places.

This picturesque pub was selected as one of the hidden gems of London by Lizzie & Dave from Wanderlust And Life .

12. Hidden bar – The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town

Secret bars are apparently very popular in London and are springing up like mushrooms. However, if you don’t know they exist or where exactly to find them, chances are you’ll just pass by and will never know.

My blogger friend Alex from MyLifeLongHoliday  who was exploring the hidden gems of London together with me, had done some previous research and so we set on a quest to find one of the hidden bars of London. She had marked a bar called ‘The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town’ on Google Maps , but when we arrived there, we found just a regular diner called ‘The Breakfast Club’.

We decided to ask the waiter if he had heard of this hidden bar and if he could guide us to it. The friendly waiter said to follow along and took us inside the restaurant. Then all of a sudden, he stopped by an old fridge and opened the door. And indeed – the opening at the back of the fridge was an entrance to a hidden bar in the basement.

The bar itself is just a regular bar with drinks and some small snacks, but the people working there are incredibly friendly. When we came back to the bar in the evening, they met us with a smile and a hug – as if we were old friends. You should have seen the faces of the people dining in the restaurant when we disappeared inside that huge fridge…

The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town is obviously not the only hidden bar in London. But it’s quite close to some other hidden gems of London in the Spitalfields area and is therefore easy to combine with a visit to many other hidden gems of London. If you find yourself in the area, don’t miss it.

Alternatively, look for another Breakfast Club in the area close to where you are staying in London. From what I understood, there seem to be a few of these restaurants in London and rumor has it that they are hiding some other bars as well.

TIP: They might ask you for a password to enter this hidden bar. It’s best to ask to ‘see the Mayor’ or something along those lines. Make sure to also familiarize yourself with the rules as to how to exit the bar – it’s a hilarious read.

13. Columbia Road Flower Market

Columbia Road Flower Market is one of the real hidden gems of London. Only a ten-minute walk from the buzzing Brick Lane (see above), this flower market is tucked away in the East End of London, behind a housing estate. The only clue you have that there’s anything to see is the occasional large potted plant struggling down the street with a person hiding somewhere behind it.

The market is held every Sunday morning between 8 am and around 3 pm. There are around 50 stalls selling every kind of flower and plant you could imagine. There are also around 60 small independent shops including several cafes. Add in some busking musicians and you have a great atmosphere.

TIP: Most of the best flowers tend to sell out in the first hour or two. We’ve found that the best time to pick up a bargain is around 1 pm, when things are starting to quiet down and stallholders are looking to offload their remaining stock.

This different way to spend a Sunday morning in London is suggested by David from Delve Into Europe .

14. Royal Exchange

If you like places where modern life blends in with history, then don’t miss the Royal Exchange in London . Established in 1566 as London’s first place for trading stocks, this iconic building has a long history. It’s one of the places where, traditionally, the reign of the new monarch is announced to the public.

The Royal Exchange building has been destroyed by fire twice and was in danger of collapse at the end of the 20th century. The building as we see it today dates from the 1840s but has been extensively remodeled in 2001.

Located halfway between St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London, the Royal Exchange is impressive both from the outside as well as inside. Nowadays it is mostly known for boutique shopping and fine dining, with the upper floors being used as offices. 

TIP: Combine your visit to the Royal Exchange with that of the nearby Leadenhall Market and many other hidden gems in the Spitalfields area.

15. Leadenhall Market

London has no shortage of markets to visit, but I’d argue that Leadenhall Market is one of the most beautiful. It’s also a bit hidden away, so it isn’t as well visited as others, such as the popular Borough Market.

Leadenhall Market is a covered market, with a beautiful ornate roof that features glass windows and curved beams. It dates from the 19th century, although there has been a market on this location from the 14th century, making it one of the oldest markets in London. It’s brightly colored and incredibly photogenic. You’ll definitely want to bring your camera along!

Leadenhall Market is found in the City of London, on Gracechurch Street, and most visitors on foot will access it via one of the narrow pedestrian alleyways. It can be hard to spot, so having a map or an app with the location saved will help.

Film buffs will recognize the Leadenhall market as one of the Harry Potter filming locations in London. The market was the location for one of the entrances to Diagon Alley.

TIP: Harry Potter fans will love Magical London: Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour . It’s a tour with exceptional guides, masters of storytelling, that has been selected as one of the best tours in London by GetYourGuide.

If you have a day to spare, you may like to consider a day trip to the Harry Potter: Warner Bros. Studios as well. It’s been one of the most popular day trips from London for years.

This literally hidden gem of London is suggested by Laurence from Finding The Universe, where you can find more  Harry Potter filming locations in London .

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips from London

16. Monster Supply Store

Did you know that there are monsters living in London? Well, there are and they are hungry. Fortunately, they can get the snacks that they need at the Hoxton Street Monster Supplies Store .

This cool little spot is located on Hoxton Street in northern Shoreditch. They offer “service with a snarl” and assorted snacks for feeding your monster. You can find goofy products like “salt made from tears of anger” (smoked salt), “night terrors” (rainbow candies) or “impacted earwax” (caramels…I hope).

What’s really going on at Monster Supply is a brilliant literacy program started by the author Dave Eggers in the US and expanded to the UK by author Nick Hornsby. The organization inspires kids to become storytellers and writers through literacy workshops. The store, also known as Ministry of Stories, helps to bring awareness of the program and supports nonprofits.

TIP: You can load up on Monster supplies Thur/Fri 1 pm-5 pm and Saturday 11 am-5 pm.

This cute monstrous find is suggested by Carol from Wayfaring Views. On her blog, you can find more information about this and other great things to do in Shoreditch .

17. The Postal Museum & Mail Rail

The Postal Museum also deserves a mention on this list of true hidden gems in London! Not only it’s a great place to learn more about Britain’s postal service and communications history over the past 500 years, but you can also take a trip back in time via underground railway tunnels under the city!

Mail Rail is an underground railway of Royal Mail and one of the best-kept secrets in London. It was built at the beginning of the 20th century and remained in operation until 2003. It is now open to the public and is one of the most unique experiences in London.

There are several ways to explore this underground railway system. Mail Rail experience takes you on a ride on a miniature train through some of the original tunnels. Whereas Tunnel Walks allow you to explore other parts of the railway on foot. This tour gives you exclusive access to platforms, tracks, and tunnels that you don’t see on the ride.

This museum is great for young and old. It’s also one of the coolest places to visit in London with kids!

Good to know: The Postal Museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday. Depending on the activities you choose, count 1.5-3 hours for a visit. See here for more information and tickets .

18. Primrose Hill

Head to Primrose Hill for some of the best views of London and a quirky neighborhood to explore.

One of six protected viewpoints in London, from the peak of Primrose Hill you can see the entire city laid out before you. When it is clear, it is easy to spot landmarks like the London Eye, The Shard, and BT Tower in the distance.

Take a picnic to Primrose Hill on a sunny day and join Londoners enjoying one of their favorite neighborhoods, famous for its colorful houses and resident celebrities.

When you have finished admiring the views, wander down the hill until you reach the Regent’s Canal. From there it is a short stroll along the canal to the bustling markets and bars of Camden Town.

Primrose Hill is one of the favorite choices of less known places in London by Katy from Untold Morsels .

19. Greenwich Foot Tunnel

As you walk along the Greenwich riverside, you may notice a small red brick circular building with a glass dome. It is right next to the imposing Cutty Sark, so being overshadowed by this impressive structure there is a chance that you may even miss it. In fact, so many people do! Greenwich has so many things to do in such a small area that it’s easy to miss things.

So, now that you know what to look out for, I’ll tell you that this little building is the entrance to one of the most astounding feats of Victorian engineering, the Greenwich Foot Tunnel . It is a pedestrian tunnel built under the Thames River to connect Greenwich with Island Gardens on the Isle of Dogs.

Greenwich Foot Tunnel was opened in 1902 and its purpose was to provide access to the docks on the north of the river for dockworkers that lived in the south of the river. It has been recently refurbished and it is now a pedestrian highway and free for everyone to walk through.

It amazes me that such a structure is still in use, and walking through it is quite an experience – cold, damp, and very echo-y. Certainly not for claustrophobics!

This hidden gem was chosen by Teresa from Brogan Abroad, where you can read about more  places to see in Greenwich .

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Greenwich

20. The Dickens Inn

One of my favorite pubs to take visitors in London is The Dickens Inn . Not only is it a beautiful-looking building, but it is also full of history.

This former 18th-century three-story warehouse was thought to have housed tea or be owned by a brewery. It has a long and intriguing history intertwined with Charles Dickens and East London heritage.

With a slanted roofline that is higher on one side than the other and 2 huge balconies covered in flowers, you definitely cannot miss The Dickens Inn when you enter St Katharine Docks.

The best bit is that it is only 5 minutes walk away from both Tower Bridge and the Tower of London , making it a great spot for a drink or something to eat. Children are allowed into the pub during the daytime as well. Also, there is also a pizza and a grill restaurant inside, if you want a nice sit-down meal.

TIP: The best time to visit is during the spring season when all the flowers are blooming on the outside walls.

Recommendation by a London resident Melissa from MelB Travel . 

21. Kayaking under the Tower Bridge

You’ve probably all heard of Tower Bridge and seen lots of pictures of it, so it is not exactly a secret place in London. But did you know you can go on an organized kayak tour which goes past the best London landmarks and the highlight is paddling under Tower Bridge ?! Now that is one unique experience to have in London!

The Thames can be quite busy with traffic from riverboats, but thanks to our four guides we felt completely safe during the whole journey! It took us about 3 hours to cover the 17 km from Battersea to Greenwich. We used double kayaks, which were very stable and easy to handle, so beginners were also welcome. If you want to explore London in a truly special way, this trip is for you!

This unique experience in London is recommended by Krix from Travel Hacker Girl. On her blog, you can find more information about kayaking in London .

TIP: If you would like to see the River Thames and London in this unique way, but are short on time and/or not interested in kayaking, you may want to consider this  highly-rated speed boat tour that also goes under the Tower Bridge .

22. Kyoto Garden

If you are looking for a beautiful hidden gem in London, then head to Kyoto Garden.  The gardens are easily accessible from central London.

Kyoto Gardens are over 20 hectares and are located around Holland House, which used to be an old castle where many famous families have lived in. It was originally built in 1605 but was destroyed in the Second World War.

The Kyoto Gardens was officially opened in 1991 to mark the friendship between Japan and the United Kingdom.

The gardens have been beautifully landscaped and designed to reflect how Japanese gardens look. It is a truly peaceful and picturesque place a bit off the beaten path in London. You will find stone carvings in Japanese style, peacocks and herons roaming around, numerous varieties of flowers and trees, waterfalls, and even the beautiful koi carp fish.

The gardens can be visited in any season. In spring you will find a big variety of magnificent flowers in full bloom, it’s also the season for the famous Japanese cherry blossom. In summer you will see the bright colors of flowers and trees. In autumn – golden rusty vibrant leaves on the huge oak- and maple trees surrounding the area. In winter you will find incredible views over the gardens; it’s truly magical if covered in snow.

Kyoto Garden is open daily and is free to visit. This is a great location for photography so don’t forget your camera.

This beautiful park was chosen as one of the best secret places in London by a local resident Eliza.

23. Postman’s Park

In the shadow of St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most poignant parts of central London.  Postman’s Park – so called as it was popular with postal workers from the local central sorting office – is host to George Frederic Watts’s Memorial to Heroic Self Sacrifice, a memorial to ordinary people who died while saving the lives of others.

It consists of a long wall housing ceramic memorial tablets featuring the likes of “G Garnish, A young clergyman, Who lost his life in endeavoring to rescue a stranger from drowning at Putney” or “John Clinton, Aged 10, Who was drowned near London Bridge in trying to save a companion younger than himself”.

The fact that this small park, with its sad little plaques, is in the center of one of the great world cities, surrounded by skyscrapers and other important buildings, makes this quiet place even more poignant. It’s a secret place in London that many tourists never visit. Postman’s Park is a must see, if only for a few moments of peace in the hustle and bustle of London life…

Contributed by Chris Young from England Explore .

24. Battersea Park and Children’s Zoo

Nestled on the southern banks of the Thames, you will find one of London’s better kept secrets, Battersea Park . With a real community feel to it, the 200-acre park has been home to many fairs, playgrounds, and attractions over the years.

One of the more recognizable landmarks of Battersea Park is the Peace Pagoda, erected in 1985. It’s a beautiful place to reflect and watch life roll by on the Thames.

Whilst the funfairs of the past are now gone, there’s still a lot going on in this park – sporting fields aplenty, a miniature zoo, the historic Pump House gallery, Putt in the Park mini-golf with pizzeria, a nature reserve, a playground with a miniature train, and in the heart of the park, an ornamental lake where on weekends and holidays you can hire mini rowing or paddle boats.

Our favorite part of the park is the hidden gem Battersea Park Children’s Zoo . Far cheaper to enter than its more famous north London counterpart (and with far less or an urban, concrete feel), it’s the perfect size zoo for little explorers. All their mammals, reptiles, and birds are little and in keeping with the zoo’s size.

There are plenty of hands-on activities scheduled throughout the week for children to be involved in, including feeding times and education programs. To finish things off there’s a magnificent adventure playground, complete with its own fire truck!

This little-known gem of London is suggested by Keri from Little City Trips .

25. MI6 Building

A few minutes after Skyfall begins, M is shown driving to her office building when an explosion rips apart one side of the building forcing the agency to relocate to an underground bunker. That building is the actual MI6 headquarters called the SIS Building in Vauxhall , London.

The MI6 building is situated on an embankment and has prongs along its roof to prevent unauthorized networks from catching the digital transmissions inside the building. That’s the closest you’ll come to seeing any sort of geekery about the Secret Service from ground level.

It looks somber and foreboding from the outside and could easily be mistaken for a drab office building if you don’t know what you’re looking at. But for James Bond fans like me, the place is particularly important for all the special moments it has given us in the movies.

The SIS Building was featured in GoldenEye way back in 1995, The World is Not Enough, Skyfall, and its follow-up Spectre. In case you’re wondering how the real MI6 staff feels about their building showing up so prominently, an established anecdote says that the staff actually cheered when the model SIS building created on a film set was blown off in Skyfall. That’s three cheers for attitude right there!

The MI6 building is actually a pretty popular place to see in London among James Bond fans. James Bond tours will take you here, some on foot and some others by a (mini) bus, because it is located a bit outside the city center.

MI6 building is recommended to all James Bond fans by Priyanko from Constant Traveller .

26. Pop Brixton

Pop Brixton is home to some of London’s tastiest food stands, hipster cocktail bars, pop-up vintage clothing shops, art galleries, quirky exercise classes and even a co-working space.

Their mantra is all about supporting small local businesses, so the space is always buzzing with creative people and unique startups milling around.

It’s the perfect place to go for casual food or drinks on any afternoon or evening. Or check out their special events like photography exhibitions, wine tasting, tai-chi, or urban gardening.

Pop Brixton is a place where you can experience London as and with the locals, a secret find not many tourists know about.

This hidden gem is recommended by a London local Harriet.

27. Short walk through the centuries in the City of London

The City of London has a rich history and in just a few steps you can be transported through the centuries.

Starting at the London Mithraeum the immersive experience gives you a taster of worshiping at the cult of Mithras in the recreated Roman temple. Artifacts are displayed to give you an insight into the lives of the first Londoners.

One minute down the road you’ll fast forward to the 17th century as you reach St Stephen Walbrook . Destroyed by the Great Fire of London, the church was rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren. The green dome is thought to be the precursor for the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral. Find the Rothschild Building to get a great view of the dome framed by the building.

You’ll find yourself back in Roman London when you reach St Magnus the Martyr . The arch on the western side of the church is where people crossing the old London Bridge entered the city. Pop into the church to see a model of what the bridge looked like. Other remnants include a piece of timber dated AD 75 and stones from the medieval bridge. The walk between these hidden gems will take just 10-15 minutes, however, you should build in some time at each stop.

TIP: If you like history and want to learn more about London’s secret past, take a look at this ‘old London’ walking tour . You’ll discover the back streets, execution sites, ancient churches, and other historic places that most people don’t even realize exist… This tour is like taking a trip centuries back in time!

This short walk covering several of London’s hidden gems is suggested by Emma from Emma Online. On her blog, you can find more details about this historic walk in London .

28. Alexandra Palace

If you are visiting London and you’ve picked a hotel in the Northern part near Muswell Hill or Wood Green, then you may enjoy visiting Alexandra Palace . Sure, it’s not a typical place you would visit when you go to London. However, Alexandra Palace, also called Ally Pally, can be a fun getaway especially if you are visiting London with kids.

Built in 1873, the palace is stunning to look at. You can relax on the green lawns of the palace while admiring the Rose window or take a boat ride on the lake behind the palace. You don’t have to wait for winter to do some ice skating. The ice rink at Alexandra Palace is open all year round.

There are other things you can enjoy as well such as tree climbing, a small golf course, Farmer’s market, a segway rally, and an adventure course. It’s a full day of fun at Alexandra Palace!

Submission by Pari from Traveling Pari .

29. Hampstead Heath

Hyde, Regent, and Kensington Gardens are perennial favorites for parks to visit while in London. They are all beautiful, but for a less manicured bucolic setting, none compare to the wild beauty of the Heath in Hampstead Village .

Located about half an hour from Central London, Hampstead is a posh community that has a historically artsy past. The likes of D.H. Lawrence, Sigmund Freud, Robert Louis Stevenson, and countless creative luminaries have resided there.

At some point or another, all have been known to have taken their contemplative strolls through Hampstead Park . There are riding lanes for horses, many ponds where one can find people and swans swimming alongside. There are also private mansions, such as the Kenwood House which has been a backdrop for countless period films.

Of all things, the beauty of this park is its ability to make one think and appreciate both the simple and the complex while taking a stroll. There is something inherently English about the place and it almost can’t be helped that your creative self comes alive. Hampstead Heath is certainly worth a day trip from Central London.

30. Kew Gardens – Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is home to the largest and most diverse collection of living plants, anywhere in the world.

Although it’s not necessarily very hidden, most tourists seem to skip this beautiful part of London. Perhaps because it’s a bit out of the way of other popular tourist attractions. But trust me when I say that Kew Gardens are well worth a visit!

Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers unique landscapes and iconic architecture from every stage of the Gardens’ history. There are more than 100 world-class attractions at Kew Gardens such as iconic buildings, art collections, vistas, and glasshouses. There are also various temporary exhibitions at Kew Gardens that might be worth your time. The glasshouse is not to be missed and is a perfect place to shoot some amazing photos (whether it’s for your Instagram page or traditional photo album).

TIP:  Kew Gardens are really big, so you definitely need time to properly explore this less known gem of London. It’s recommended to do some research to decide what you want to see upfront, or take a full day and explore this beautiful place to the fullest. You can buy admission tickets in advance and save some time.

Kew Gardens are recommended to visitors looking to explore some less known places in London by Lisanne from Chapter Travel .

31. Chelsea Physic Garden

Tucked away in a hidden corner of London between the upscale shopping of the King’s Road and close to the Chelsea Embankment and the Albert Bridge across the Thames is the capital’s original secret garden. Dating back to the late 17th Century, the Chelsea Physic Garden remains the second oldest botanical garden in the UK (after the gardens at Oxford University). It has been at the forefront in the cultivation of medicinal plants.

Home to the tallest standing olive tree in Britain, the layout of different sections of the garden is very admirable. The Dicotyledon Order Beds (so named as the plants here are grown with two seed leaves) and Monocotyledon (one seed leaf) are a testament to this with over 800 organized according to their groups. Some are indeed quite rare. In between these and the statue of Sir Hans Sloane is the tranquil pond rockery.

Various glasshouses are located in these gardens, the largest of which is known as the Tropical Corridor. Ideal for storing all year round many exotic plants from the Atlantic that would otherwise not survive the harsh winters. Also, one of the smaller glasshouses has a little exhibit of desert cacti. A great anomaly in London!

An afternoon strolling in this peaceful oasis makes you forget that you are in the heart of a big, noisy city. With a cafe that provides outdoor seating too, what better way to take it in slowly and appreciate this green space in the heart of one of London’s most well-heeled districts.

This unusual little garden in London is suggested by Jonathan from  Journey Maxx .

32. Climb The O2 Arena

The O2 Arena in London was originally built for the millennium and has become the world’s most popular entertainment venue.

Not many people can say they climbed over The O2 Arena. With the Up at The O2 Experience, visitors can walk on a path suspended 2 meters above the roof of The O2. On the viewing platform at the top, 52 meters high, you have time to take in 360-degree views of London and even enjoy a glass of champagne if you like. On a clear day, you can see landmarks up to 15 miles away.

Your guide will provide you with all the climbing gear you need including a safety harness. At the beginning of the climb, you are going up at a 28-degree incline, then it levels off as you approach the top.

In a way, going down is more difficult than going up. The incline is slightly steeper at 30 degrees. If you are worried about looking down, you might want to try going down backward. Don’t let your fears stop you, it’s such a unique and memorable experience!

TIP: If you want to climb the O2 Arena, you have to book it in advance. Here you can find prices and check availability for the climb .

This unique London activity is suggested by Anisa from 2 Traveling Texans. You can find more information about The O2 Experience on their blog.

33. Thames Barrier Park

The Thames Barrier is an iconic structure in London, built in the 80s in order to solve the centuries-long problem of flooding in central London. You can visit the visitor center on the southern side of the river (not too far from Greenwich), or simply see this impressive movable dam from the  Barrier Park (opposite side of the river). This little park is a real hidden gem in London!

Barrier Park with carefully landscaped gardens was designed with tranquillity in mind and also to frame the imposing barrier. The gardens have a variety of flowers that bloom throughout the year and are a haven for pollinators and wild birds.

While wandering through the park, you get nice views of the barrier. Between the park and the river, there is a nice waterfront promenade with benches to enjoy the view. There is also a coffee shop on-site for refreshments and a play area for children.

TIP: Barrier Park is in the Royal Docks area and is easily accessible via the Docklands Light Railway. The nearest stop is Pontoon Dock. However, if you are feeling adventurous, the river bus and then the cable car across the river makes a delightful journey there or back.

This special place to see in London is recommended by Rich from RJOnTour. On his blog, you can read about visiting Barrier Park .

The Hidden Gems of London on the Map

As promised, here is a map showing all the hidden gems of London that are mentioned in this post. You can click on the little arrow to see the index, alternatively just click on any of the locations to see which place it is.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, these are some of the nicest local finds and less known places in London for your travel list. I am certain that visiting at least some of these gems will make your trip to London even more special and more memorable. In addition, you may want to check out some of the best London views (many of them are free to visit).

And, of course, don’t miss the must-see tourist attractions in London ! But even if you visit just a few of the hidden gems, it will make your trip so much more special!

Do you know any amazing secret places in London that you’re willing to share? Please leave a reply below!

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in London: Best Areas & Hotels

More inspiration & info for your trip to London:

• Tips for visiting London for the first time
• London in 1 day
• London 2-day itinerary
• Camden Market in London
• Things to do in Greenwich
• Things to do in London with kids
• Best Day Trips Near London
• Liverpool from London: Day Trip Itinerary

Travel guides for the UK:

• Food: British Food – Traditional UK Dishes to Try
• Cities: Best UK Cities to Visit
• Manchester: Best Things to Do in Manchester & 1 Day in Manchester
• Liverpool: Best Things to Do in Liverpool & The Beatles Attractions in Liverpool
• Edinburgh: Best Things to Do in Edinburgh & Edinburgh in One Day
• Glasgow: How to See the Best of Glasgow in One Day
• Scotland: Isle of Skye Itinerary & Scotland Whisky Tour
• Yorkshire: Best Things to Do in Yorkshire
• Cornwall: Best Things to Do in Cornwall & Where to Stay in Cornwall

If you enjoyed reading this post, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

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Tuesday 23rd of April 2024

Will visit London in August this year, for the first time. Thank you for the wonderful list of hidden gems!!!

Wednesday 24th of April 2024

Glad to help, Mirela. If visiting for the first time, you may want to check out our tips for visiting London as well. Have a great trip!

Jeff Petrillo

Tuesday 2nd of April 2024

Kudos. What an amazing list of amazing places and sites. I have read many blog posts and guides--but you have topped the list. This is a definite go-to guide for the curious and interested traveler. Thank you for putting this together.

Thursday 4th of April 2024

Thank you for your kind feedback. Enjoy London!

Andy Sillett

Saturday 23rd of December 2023

Well done Jurga, you have found some great locations that I took a long time finding despite living here 40 years

Monday 25th of December 2023

Thank you, Andy. I can well believe that you could spend your entire life in the city like London and keep on finding interesting new places all the time... Merry Christmas and happy exploring!

Torben Carlsen

Wednesday 11th of October 2023

I have visited London a couple of times with my daughter and we once found a cosy small square close to Tower Bridge and St. Katherine's Dock. There was a fountain with funny things placed around, soap, nail brush and more stuff ... In november I go to London, now with my wife, but I cannot find the square on any map!! Can you help me?

Sunday 19th of November 2023

@Torben Carlsen, I found my square called Courage Yard. On the southbank of Tower Bridge, immediately to the left, a little hidden behind Starbucks and close to the pub The Anchor's Tap. The fountain is different and amazing.

Thursday 12th of October 2023

Hi Torben, I'm afraid I can't help you with this. I have never seen such a fountain in London. Good luck with your search and enjoy your trip!

Jamie Fitzpatrick

Sunday 8th of October 2023

This is brilliant, thank you for taking time to put this together. We visit london every year and are always trying to find more things to discover. One to add of interest is taking a walk down billionaires row, home to lots of embassies and very expensive houses. The road is guarded by police but well worth a walk, located on kensington palace gardens right next to kensington palace.

Monday 9th of October 2023

Thanks for the tip, Jamie. Happy travels!

40+ Hidden Gems & Unusual Things To Do In London

Looking to explore London beyond the typical tourist hotspots? Look no further. In this guide, I take you on a journey to discover some of the city’s most magnificent hidden gems and secret spots.

You may be thinking, “hidden gems in London, is that even possible?” Well, the truth is, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path attractions waiting to be discovered. With its rich history and diverse culture, London offers a wealth of unique experiences that can’t be found in your average guidebook.

Having visited London numerous times and even lived there for a while, I’ve had the chance to uncover some of the city’s best-kept secrets. So, join me as we venture off the tourist trail and explore the hidden gems that make London such a special place.

Some of these lesser known sites in London are overlooked landmarks, underrated museums, or recently unveiled attractions that are still under the radar.

When you’re done admiring London’s popular landmarks, you can visit these places and have a secret spot all to yourself.

None of them are blighted by mass tourism, interminable queues, or the requirement of skip the line tickets.

40+ Hidden Gems In London

Here’s my handpicked list of 43 hidden gems and secret spots in London, just waiting to be explored by the discerning traveler or repeat visitor to London.

1. London Mithraeum

The Roman Temple of Mithras is a hidden gem in the heart of London — and the best part? It’s completely free to visit! This fascinating archaeological site is one of only 100 Mithraic temples found throughout Ancient Rome, making it an important piece of British history.

The temple was first discovered back in 1954, but it wasn’t until the Bloomberg Project that it was excavated between 2010-14 and moved to a publicly accessible space. Now, visitors can explore the reconstructed temple and marvel at the remarkable collection of artifacts uncovered during the excavation.

Although little is known about the Roman cult of Mithras and its rituals, the central icon of the cult depicts Mithras killing a bull, which is believed to represent a creation myth.

Tours of the temple depart every 20 minutes, and while you wait for your turn, you can explore the exhibition space and learn more about this intriguing site. You can also visit the Mithraeum on a  3 hour guided tour of Roman London .

Here’s my complete  guide to the London Mithraeum .

2. Billingsgate Roman Bath House

Another Roman site that’s a hidden gem in London is the Billingsgate Roman Bath House . Like the Mithraeum, it was part of ancient Londinium.

You’ll find it underneath an office complex on Lower Thames Street. The bath house was abandoned after the fall of Rome.

First discovered in 1848, these Roman ruins were once an impressive bath house with a courtyard and underfloor heating. The best preserved part of the ruins is a hot bath with hypocausts, which were used for heating the room.

Artifacts discovered during excavations are in the Museum of London, another hidden gem in London that I discuss below.

The site opens to the public on Saturdays via guided tours. You can also visit this site on a tour of Roman London . You’ll get some fascinating insight into a London from over 2,000 years ago.

3. St. Pancras Old Church

St. Pancras Old Church was once a riverside country chapel. The church claims to have been a site of Christian worship since the 4th century.

The current structure has been around since the 12th century. But it got a major remodel in the 19th century and then again in the 20th century to repair bombing damage from WWII.

The church has a well stocked graveyard, including the tomb of Sir John Soane, England’s great Neo-Classical architect.

In the 19th century, the cemetery was a target for grave robbers, who dug up freshly interred bodies and sold them to doctors for medieval dissection. The graveyard was featured in Charles Dickens’ book A Tale of Two Cities .

One of the most striking oddities in the cemetery is the Hardy Tree. It’s an ash tree surrounded by hundreds of gravestones chock-a-block on top of each other.

They were arranged in that fashion to make way for an expansion of Britain’s rail system. Who got the job of exhuming and reburying? A young Thomas Hardy, who would go on to become one of Britain’s greatest classic novelists.

The church hosts lectures and concerts. You can check out its Facebook page for the latest events.

4. Garden At 120

Everyone heads to the Shard for views, but there’s an equally stunning place for views that’s not nearly as well known and perfectly free, the  Garden at 120 .

It’s located atop the Fen Court building at 120 Fenchurch Street right near Leadenhall Market. You don’t need to make any bookings or reservations for this beauty.

At 15 stories, it offers exceptional 360 views from its outdoor terrace. The gardens are also gorgeous.

The Garden at 120 is still a hidden gem in London. What that means is a short wait time before passing through airport-style security, heading up the speedy lift, and emerging into one of London’s prettiest roof spaces.

5. Wallace Collection

Housed in a palatial mansion, the Wallace Collection is a stunning example of art and period settings perfectly preserved in situ.

The museum boasts an impressive collection of old Masters paintings, set amidst some of the finest French furniture you’ll ever lay your eyes on.

The Wallace Collection is particularly renowned for its 18th century French paintings, European paintings, Boulle furniture, and medieval armor.

Visitors can marvel at works by famous artists such as Rembrandt, Franz Hals, Velazquez, Titian, and Canaletto, as well as an array of Rococo-era works by Watteau, Boucher, and Fragonard.

Speaking of Fragonard, the museum’s most famous painting is none other than his masterpiece, The Swing . With so much to see and appreciate, the Wallace Collection is an unmissable hidden gem for any art lover visiting London.

6. John Soane Museum

Sir John Soane was one of Britain’s foremost Neo-Classical architects and a professor of architecture at the Royal Academy.

On top of that, he created his own  house museum . Built in 1812, Soane designed the house to hold his vast collection of art and objects from around the world. You can feel his spirit and legacy in the cluttered, bejeweled place.

Soane was a curiosity collector. You’ll find a mishmash of Roman, Greek, and Egyptian artifacts, urns, statues, and vases. There’s even a sarcophagus in the basement.

There are also some world class paintings, including ones by Watteau, J.M.W. Turner, Canaletto, and William Thomas Beckford. And over 30,000 drawings, including famous ones by William Hogarth.

7. Charles Dickens House Museum

Charles Dickens bought this house when he was flush with cash from the success of his first novel, The Pickwick Papers . He moved in March 1837. It’s the only surviving house in London in which Dickens lived.

The Charles Dickens House was renovated in 2011 to coincide with the bicentenary of Dickins’ birth. When Dickens lived there, it was a 12 room dwelling outfitted in pink brick. What you see today is more a dark brown brick.

The museum is a charming little treasure house of memories. In the renovations, rooms were redecorated to reflect the style of the time.

You can see some of the novelist’s letters, theater posters, and portraits of Dickens and his family. You can see his signature, with an extravagance of curls and flourishes. And a copy of his last unfinished novel, Edwin Drood .

The dining room is kitted out with china bearing the image of Dickens. The drawing room is where he held readings and amateur theatrics.

His sister-in-law, Georgina Hogarth, has her own room. It’s rumored that she and Dickens had an affair. Dickens had a rather scandalous love life by the standards of the Victorian era.

8. Ben Franklin House

For those who are fascinated by history and enamored with Georgian era architecture, the Benjamin Franklin House is an absolute must visit. This extraordinary building is the only surviving residence in the world where Franklin both lived and worked, having resided there from 1757 to 1772.

Franklin was, of course, a highly influential figure during the American Revolution. His diplomatic prowess and scientific innovations continue to inspire to this day.

Built in 1730, the house museum is something of a time capsule, complete with original period features. It’s also a Grade I site in London, which means it receives the highest level of conservation in Britain.

Visitors are able to explore three levels of the house and marvel at the stunning Georgian interior painted in the signature “Franklin Green.” On the first floor, the parlor and cards room await.

On the second floor, guests can tour Franklin’s bedroom and office space, which features massive Victorian windows. While there, be sure to play the glass harmonica — a musical instrument invented by Franklin himself.

9. Freud House Museum

In 1938, Austria was taken over by the Nazis and Sigmund Freud and his family fled to London. The famous neurologist settled into what is now the  Freud Museum  for the last year of his life.

Freud’s study has been preserved just as it was during his lifetime. It contains  Freud’s original psychoanalytic couch , on which patients were invited to recline and say whatever came to mind.

Freud was a passionate collector of antiquities, especially ancient statuettes. His study holds his remarkable collection. 

Almost 2,000 items fill cabinets and are arranged on every surface. There are rows of ancient figures on the desk where Freud wrote until the early hours of the morning.

The walls are lined with Freud’s personal library of over 1,600 books, interspersed with several notable pictures hung as he arranged them. It was the working library of a well read man.

10. Dr. Samuel Johnson’s House

Dr. Johnson’s House is s a little hidden gem in London tucked into a quiet spot not far from the hustle and bustle of Fleet Street.

The house was once home of acclaimed London wit and writer, Dr. Samuel Johnson. The 300 year old townhouse is an amazing example of late 17th century architecture at its finest.

The house museum also has a Grade I building, which means conservation is strict. It’s one of very few 18th century residential houses in London still standing.

In fact, it was in one of these rooms that Johnson compiled his famous Dictionary of the English Language . Copies of the world’s first dictionary are on display.

The house museum is open four days a week, check the website. You’ll visit via a guided tour which will make Johnson’s life come alive. Ring the bell to be let in.

11. Apsley House

Apsley House is the seat of the dukes of Wellington. The present duke lives upstairs part time. 

The museum’s marquis masterpiece is a colossal sculpture of  Mars The Peacemaker  by the Italian Neo-Classical sculptor Anthony Canova. The piece is a sculpture of Napoleon.

The suite of public rooms upstairs is the setting for the duke’s astonishing painting collection. You’ll find important old master paintings, including art works by Rubens, Velazquez, Goya, and Titian.

The ticket price is £14.20. The museum’s audio guide is narrated by the duke. 

You can book a  3 hour guided tour  of both Apsley House and the V&A Museum.

12. Courtauld Gallery

Tucked away in Somerset House, the Courtauld Gallery is a true hidden gem in London, having first opened its doors in 1932.

If you’re an art lover with a passion for Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works, you’ll feel right at home at the Courtauld Gallery. You will instantly recognize some of the world’s most iconic paintings.

Recently reopened in November 2021 after a meticulous 3-year renovation, the Courtauld Gallery is now a sight to behold, with spacious and well-lit galleries that showcase some of London’s finest art.

In the Great Room, you’ll find masterpieces by Renoir, Manet, Monet, Cezanne, and Van Gogh, including Britain’s largest collection of Cezanne works.

But that’s not all—the Courtauld Gallery also boasts an impressive collection of early Renaissance art, featuring works by Botticelli and other northern Renaissance artists, as well as two striking rooms filled with Rubens paintings.

If you’re a serious art lover, you may want to consider this  private art tour  that takes you London’s top museums and galleries, including the Courtauld.

13. Bermondsy Street

The Bermondsy area of London is just across the Thames from the Tower of London.

Bermondsy is a bit of a hidden treasure in London that’s where the locals go. It’s undergone rapid transformation. 

It’s a happening place now with cobbled squares and grand buildings that make it feel right out of a period drama.

Bermondsy is also one of London’s culinary destinations. It’s home to street food markets rivaling Borough market and some of London’s best new restaurants.

One of the hottest tables to book right now in Bermondsy is  Trivet . It was a just awarded a Michelin star.

14. Eltham Palace

Eltham Palace is an architectural masterpiece that offers a rare glimpse into the passage of time. Few historic buildings in London can match its charm and grandeur.

The palace has a rich history, dating back to the Saxon era, and was a favored hideaway of monarchs from Edward II to Henry VIII. Unfortunately, the castle fell into disrepair after being damaged by Puritans in the 17th century.

In 1933, philanthropists and socialites Stephen and Virginia Courtauld leased the palace and embarked on a stunning $3.4 million Art Deco makeover. While the exterior of the building remains modest with its red brick and stone facade, the interior is a breathtaking display of Art Deco elegance.

A curved entrance hall with a concrete dome welcomes you inside, while the dining room features recreated paintings by Turner that once adorned its walls.

Visitors can explore the walk-in wardrobe of former owner Virginia Courtauld, stocked with period clothes that you can try on. The golden bedroom, adorned with a statue of a Greek goddess, is another highlight.

Additionally, the palace boasts a medieval banqueting hall from 1475, complete with a stunning hammer-beam ceiling. The gardens at Eltham Palace are equally beautiful and worth a visit.

Overall, Eltham Palace is a hidden gem in London that offers a fascinating glimpse into London’s rich history and architectural heritage.

15. St. Paul Cathedral’s Secret Spiral Staircase

St. Paul’s Cathedral , designed by Christopher Wren in the late 17th century, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in London.

As the seat of the Bishop of London, it is also an important Anglican cathedral. However, there is a little known secret hidden within the cathedral’s bell tower.

There lies a mysterious spiral staircase, which played a role in the filming of the Harry Potter movie, Prisoner of Azkaban . This is the Divination Staircase that led to Professor Trelawney’s Divination classroom.

Unfortunately, visitors on a standard tour of St. Paul’s cannot access this hidden gem. It can only be seen on a guided Harry Potter tour or a private tour of the cathedral.

And to make it even more exciting, the key to unlock the staircase is a massive and clunky one, right out of the Harry Potter universe.

Click  here  to book a skip the line ticket to St. Paul’s. Click  here  to book a guided tour of the cathedral.

16. Columbia Flower Market

Want to know where local Londoners buy their flowers? On Sunday, they head to the open air Columbia Road Flower Market on Columbia Road in London’s Bethnal Green neighborhood.

The market is budget friendly, chic, and extremely pretty. It’s a colorful spectacle of 60 stalls with blooms, plants and even trees.

The flower market is only held on Sundays, although some shops are open on other days of the week. It’s open 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. It could close earlier, depending on how quickly everything sells and the weather, etc.

Aside from the colorful flowers, Columbia Street is lined with dozens of tiny shops.

17. Brick Lane

Brick Lane is an iconic street in the Shoreditch area of East London . It was once a rough and tumble neighborhood in London. But seedy has long since given way to charming.

It’s a bohemian multi-cultural paradise for vintage hunters, foodies, and street art lovers. The street is teeming with cool shops, buzzing markets, and of course its famous curry houses. 

Brick Lane is home to more than 50 Bangladeshi restaurants, whose fragrance you’ll no doubt detect. This led the lane to be nicknamed “Banglatown.”

Brick Lane is also linked to London’s famous 15th century serial killer Jack the Ripper who terrorized people in this area. Naturally, you can take a guided Jack the Ripper walking tour in London .

You can also book a street art tour of the area.

18. Spitalfields Market

Spitalfields Market is a true local’s joint compared to London’s other popular and more touristy markets. And it’s the best market in East London.

Spitalfields Market has been around since the Great Fire of London. But it’s also had a millennial rebirth, now housing 110 stalls.

It’s a place where you find all sorts of enticing dishes — from Thai to Indian to Japanese to French crepes. And some of the food trucks and stalls give free samples to entice you.

You can also find great vintage stuff — fashion items, clothing, jewelry, vinyl albums, decor, and semi-antique accessories. The market really comes to life on Sunday when the streets are filled with shops and stalls.

You can sample the wares of Spitalfields on an East End food tour .

19. Neal’s Yard

Neal’s Yard is a colorful cobblestone passage near Covent Garden. You likely won’t just stumble across it while touring central London.

You’ll have to seek it out with your GPS. It’s a 5-10 minute walk from Apple Market in the part of London called Seven Dials. It’s totally worth the short detour just for the colorful facades.

Neal’s Lane is filled with quaint shops and tasty cafes. You can find Chinese herbal medicine, organic therapies, beauty salons, a Sicilian deli, and Shiatsu massage places.

It’s also home to the famous Neal’s Yard Dairy , which is one of London’s best places to buy cheese.

There’s a great place to eat there,  The Barbary , which serves Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food. You can also just grab a delicious slice of pizza at Homeslice Neal’s Yard .

You can visit Neal’s Yard on a guided walking tour of Covent Garden and Soho .

20. Queen’s House In Greenwich

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a day, then you might consider heading to Greenwich.

This beautiful district of London is home to some unusual London attractions such as the Greenwich Observatory, the Cutty Sark Ship, and the Prime Meridian Time Line.

For those with a cultural bent, head to the Queen’s House . It’s all that remains of a once Royal Residence.

The free museum is home to many a beautiful feature, like the Great Hall’s chequered floor and a well-stocked art gallery. This is where you’ll find the famous Armada Portrait of Elizabeth I.

But the museum’s Tulip Staircase is the real star and will blow you away. Built in the 17th century, it was the first geometric self-supporting spiral staircase in Britain. The striking shade of blue paint is made using crushed glass.

21. Westminster Cathedral

Most people have heard of Westminster Abbey , but few know about Westminster Cathedral . Situated in the heart of London near Victoria Station, it’s a hidden gem in London for history buffs.

Designed in the 1890s by Francis John Bentley and consecrated in 1910, the Westminster Cathedral is a relatively new church.

It’s a Neo-Romantic building, with hints of Byzantine influences. The facade is red and white striped. It has a 280 foot tall campanile, making it appear like an antique building from Istanbul.

Inside, you’ll find a 170 foot central nave, which is the the largest in England. There is marble, sculptures, and other elaborate decoration to admire.

Many of the chapels are covered in glittery beautiful mosaics. This all makes this hidden gem in London worth a visit.

22. Australia House

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, head to the  Australia House  on the Strand. I only found this spot because I was on a private tour of London hidden gems .

The glorious marble interior of Australia House served as the interior for Gringotts, the wizards bank run by goblins in the Harry Potter films. 

Or at least the inspiration for it. Some say Gringotts was modeled on the Vaults Nightclub in Exeter.

You can’t enter Australia House or take photos. But you can ask one of the security guards if you can walk in and take a peak through the glass door. You’ll see the giant crystal chandeliers from Gringotts.

23. Chartwell House

Chartwell House , located just outside London, is where Winston Churchill grew up and found solace from the political battles of London. For over four decades, it served as Churchill’s country retreat, a sanctuary from the turmoil of the city.

Despite not being a grand home, Churchill spared no expense in trying to make Chartwell House presentable.

However, due to financial troubles, Churchill almost lost the house twice. Fortunately, his friends bought it and gifted it to the UK’s National Trust, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Now a museum open to the public, visitors can explore five rooms where Churchill once lived, including the dining room, library, drawing room, Clementine’s bedroom, and Winston’s study.

Three additional rooms are dedicated to Churchill memorabilia, where visitors can view his personal study and painting studio.

You can book a  guided day trip tour  to Chartwell House from London.

24. Primrose Hill

If you’re looking for a great view of the city, Primrose Hill is the perfect escape. Just north of Regent’s Park, take a small uphill trek.

Primrose Hill is a beautiful green space in the heart of London that used to be Henry VIII’s hunting grounds.

From the summit of 200+ feet, you’ll have 360 panoramic views of the city. You can relax and lay down on the grass with the locals.

William Blake once described the view as “conversing with the spiritual son.” A rock on the hill is inscribed with his quote.

The Primrose Hill neighborhood is filled with beautiful rainbow colored Victorian homes. Besides the Instagram-ready row homes, you’ll also find chic eateries, tearooms, boutiques, and pubs.

As a bonus, there’s a  farmers market  close by on Saturdays.

If you’d like to sit down for a meal, try Greenery (brunch), Lemonia (Greek), or fancy it up at Odette’s.

25. Horniman Museum & Gardens

The Horniman Museum is one of London’s most whimsical museums. And it’s a completely free museum, just out of the way enough to remain a hidden gem in London.

The Horniman is in southeast London, just a short tube ride from the city center. Designed by Charles Harrison Townsend in the Arts and Crafts style, the museum opened in 1901.

The museum contains the quirky personal collection of Frederick Horniman, a Victorian era tea trader. It’s a space where the full array of human cultures and anthropology is on display.

You’ll find objects and artifacts like puppets, toys, a camel saddle, a stuffed walrus, butterfly house, a torture chair, masks, and skulls. There’s also a modestly sized aquarium and 16 acres of lovely landscaped gardens.

There’s also a cafe and gift shop.

26. High Gate Cemetery

If you’re into checking out cemeteries, then  Highgate Cemetery  should be on your London itinerary. The cemetery opened in 1839.

It’s the resting ground for wealthy Londoners from the 19th century. It’s split into East & West and tickets can be purchased separately.

The East is creepy and atmospheric. The West has impressive architecture, including Egyptian Avenue and the Terrace Catacombs.

You’ll find the graves of Karl Marx, George Michael, George Eliot, and Hitchhikers Guide To The Galaxy’s Douglas Adams.

Legend holds that the  Highgate Vampire  haunts the cemetery. He’s said to be a tall dark figure that glides through the cemetery on cold dark nights. He’s blamed for scores of dead foxes and other animals.

27. Queen’s Gallery in Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is not, of course, a hidden gem. But the Queen’s Gallery on site is.

The gallery was fully renovated and opened to the public in 2002. You’ll find a small collection of works from the British Royal Art Collection , which is the world’s largest private art collection.

The pieces are set out in three galleries, two of which have skylights to let in the natural light and better see the paintings on display.

There is a nice selection of old masters paintings. The selection is changed seasonally. The most famous paintings are Vermeer’s Lady at the Virginal with a Gentleman and Artemisia Gentileschi’s Self-Portrait as the Allegory of Painting .

Be forewarned, the gallery is small and security is tight. So you’ll need to be a patient art lover. You can also book a skip the line ticket and tour of both the Queen’s Gallery and Buckingham Palace.

28. Science Museum

Do you like gadgets and how they work? The  Science Museum  is a hidden gem in London just for you.

The museum offers up seven floors of educational and entertaining exhibits. It aims to make sense of the science that has shaped our lives.

You’ll find exhibits explaining developments in science, medicine, anatomy, space, computers, and technology. There’s a substantial collection of medical history treasures. There are some digital exhibits especially for kids. 

Like many science museums nowadays, the museum has an in-house IMAX cinema. It shows scientific films in 3D, allowing visitors to be surrounded by space or submerged in the depths of the ocean.

The museum shop is worth checking out for its wacky toys. The Dana Centre offers free lectures and performance events on contemporary scientific issues 

29. Design Museum

No list of hidden gems in London would be complete without a nod to London’s  Design Museum . It was founded by Sir Terence Conran in 1989 and relocated to Kensington in 2016.

The museum is one of the city’s premiere exhibition spaces. But for most tourists it’s a rarely visited hidden gem in London.

The building is a masterpiece itself with soaring well lit spaces and balconies. The museum won the European Museum of the Year award in 2018.

The Design Museum hosts cutting edge contemporary exhibitions dedicated to design in every form — from fashion, graphics, architecture, to product and industrial design. 

The museum just finished hosting a thought proving Amy Winehouse exhibition, which I was fortunate to see on my last trip. 

As well its temporary shows, the museum hosts an array of learning programs and activities aimed at children.

30. Leighton House

Leighton House  is one of the best small hidden gem museums in London. 

It attracts visitors with its lure of the Orient. You’ll find it on a quiet side street at the edge of Holland Park in Kensington.

Leighton House was the 19th century home of Sir Frederic Leighton, a leading Victorian artist and member of London’s Pre-Raphaelite tribe . He was known for his paintings of languid beauties like  Flaming June .

Leighton’s abode epitomizes the era’s fascination with Orientalism. It’s a wunderkind of Islamic art that’s been a frequent filming location for films and photos shoots. 

Stepping into the opulent Arab Hall, you’d almost expect a fez-wearing shopkeeper to hand you a glass of mint tea. The hall showcases more than 1,000 Islamic peacock blue tiles and is one of the most spectacular interior spaces in London. 

You can find Leighton’s own paintings. You can also see works by John Everett Millais, Lawrence Alma-Tadema, and G.F. Watts. 

31. Camden Lock Market

Camden Lock Market is named for the lock on the Regents Canal that it’s next to. It’s located in Camden Town, a hip district of London.

There are over 1,000 food stalls, bars, shops, and cafes at the Camden Lock Market. It’s about as diverse as a market comes.

You’ll find vinyl, clothing, vintage books, and handmade jewelry. A highlight is the liquid nitrogen ice cream at Chin Chin labs.

The weekend is the best time to visit. This is when most shops are open and you’ll see everything the market has to offer.

You’ll find some awesome food choices. But don’t be shocked if there’s nowhere to sit. You can also grab some food and head to the nearby canal.

You can also take a vegan food tour in Camden Town . Or take a hidden gems in London tour that includes the market.

32. Southwark Cathedral

Southwark Cathedral is a hidden gem in London, situated right next to the popular Borough Market. Despite its proximity, it remains unexplored by many.

The cathedral is a little Gothic treasure that has stood since 606 A.D, just a short 5-minute walk from the Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and the Tate Modern.

As London’s oldest Gothic structure, you should take a few minutes to step inside and admire the breathtaking interior. The site has a long history, having been destroyed by fire in 1212 and subsequently rebuilt in the 13th century.

The rear facade is heavily influenced by Norman architecture, while the front is adorned with Gothic features.

Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by an airy vaulted ceiling made of sandstone-colored brick.

The stained glass windows are a sight to behold, and there is even a monument dedicated to the great Shakespeare. The 15th century wooden roof capitols add a touch of quirkiness to this elegant cathedral.

33. Cecil Court

Cecil Court is a quaint 17th century lane that spokes off from Charing Cross Road. It’s a hidden gem in London despite being so close to the high traffic street.

With its Victorian shopfronts, it’s said to be J.K Rowling’s favorite street in London and the possible inspiration for Dragon Alley in the Harry Potter series.

Cecil Court is home to many obscure antique shops, second hand book shops, and even more book shops selling books about witchcraft and magic.

You can also pop into the nearby Godwin’s Court to check out another charming alley.

34. Monument To The Fire Of London

The Monument to the Great Fire of London was built between 1671-77. It was built to commemorate the Great Fire of 1666 and celebrate the rebuilding of London.

The chief architects were Christopher Wren, the architect of St. Paul’s Cathedral , and Robert Hooke. 

Built between 1671 and 1777, the monument stands at 202 feet tall. It marks the very spot where the fire is thought to have started.

In 2007, it underwent an 18 month restoration. You can climb 311 steps up a steep spiral staircase for great views at the top.

35. The Painted Hall

Did you know London has a Baroque masterpiece that’s known as “England’s Sistine Chapel”? It’s one of London’s absolute best hidden gems.

It’s found in  The Painted Hall  at Old Royal Navy College in Greenwich. In the hall, there is 4,000 square feet of space with breathtaking paintings covering the ceiling and walls. 

They were painted by James Thornhill between 1707-26. He was the artist responsible for painting the cupola in St. Paul’s Cathedral . It took Thornhill 19 years to complete his masterpiece.

The paintings depict themes celebrating the greatness of Britain. You’ll see depictions of naval, cultural, and political successes. It was in this hall that the great Admiral Lord Nelson layed in state.

The Painted Hall was beautifully restored in 2016-18. You can now really appreciate the paintings’ vibrant colors.

You can even lay down to admire the paintings on “day beds” provided by the museum.

You can purchase a ticket with a multimedia guide. Or, alternatively, you can join one of the 30 or 45 minute tours.

If you’re visiting during high season, you may want to pre-book a skip the line ticket .

36. Hampstead Hill Garden And Pergola

Quite a few tourists make it out to Hampstead Health to enjoy one of London’s wild green spaces. But not many discover the elegant garden and pergola in the West Heath.

It’s a criminally underrated space in London that’s a pocket of faded glory. In the spring, wisteria blossom around the trellises.

The pergola was built by Lord Leverhulme at the beginning of the Edwardian era in the early 20th century. It was a space used for lavish parties.

From the pergola, you’ll have lovely views over the Heath and Hampstead Hill.

37. House of MinaLima

Need some Harry Potter gear or souvenirs? Head to the  House of MinaLima on Greek Street in Soho.

The shop was founded and designed by two individuals who did the graphic design work for the Harry Potter films.

MinaLima showcases graphic art and merchandise based on the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films. It’s all set amid a Potter-themed decor.

You’ll be wowed by the over-the-top displays and inevitably come away with a trinket.

READ : Guide To Harry Potter Places In London

38. St. Dunstan in the East

This 900 year old Saxon church is located between the Tower of London and London Bridge.

St. Dunstan was destroyed in the Great Fire, but faithfully rebuilt with a steeple designed by Christopher Wren. Only to be bombed during the blitzes of WWII.

As a result, St. Dunstan was left in picturesque ruins. The bombed out shell of the church was turned into a public garden as a sort of living memorial.

It’s on a secluded side street dwarfed by towering office buildings. It’s one of London’s secret gardens, with walls covered with flowers and ivy.

39. UK Supreme Court

The  Supreme Court of the United Kingdom  is located on Parliament Square. The building is a typical Gothic building, like a solemn palace.

This is the birthplace of modern jurisprudence. It’s a place of great significance not only to the UK but also to the history of world law.

The court has been renovated and modernized. Two courts you can visit inside retain some of the characteristics of the Victorian era. Don’t miss the library. 

It’s free to enter the court building. You may get lucky and be able to see an actual case being argued. At 2:00 pm on Fridays you can  book a guided tour for £10.00 .

40. Museum Of London

Discover London’s rich history at the Museum of London, an overlooked hidden gem waiting to be explored. The museum is a treasure trove of fascinating exhibits that will take you on a journey through the city’s past.

While not nearly as sprawling as the British Museum , it still houses an extraordinary collection of ancient artifacts that tell the story of London from its earliest prehistoric days to the vibrant, multicultural hub it is today.

The museum boasts an impressive Roman collection of over 47,000 objects, including Viking war axes, Lord Nelson’s bejeweled sword, and intricate Roman mosaics.

Don’t miss the opportunity to see the ruins of the old London Wall just outside the museum, with a glass display in the Roman section providing a close-up view of the historic wall.

41. British Film Institute

The British Film Institute is a hidden gem in London on the south bank of the Thames. The BFI packs a lot of movie magic. It’s the leading repertory cinema in London.

BFI hosts a series of film and television festivals. You’ll find seasons featuring classic, independent, and non-English language films.

The BFI also houses the BFI Mediatheque. It’s a free library of more than 30,000 film and television titles, including rare broadcasts and British cinema classics.

In addition to the four screen cinema, there’s a brilliant common space and movie bookstore.

42. Alfred Hitchcock Mosaics

Alfred Hitchcock was born at 517 High Road in Leytonstone in 1899.

To mark 100 years since his birth, and to commemorate the director’s link with the area, 17 mosaics were installed in the entrance corridors of Leytonstone tube station. 

They were designed by artists at the Greenwich Mural Workshop. Each mosaic is an homage to Hitchcock and his movies, depicting a scene from his life or a movie.

43. Carlton House Terrace

Carlton House Terrace is a hidden gem in London that was built by the great Regency architect John Nash.

It’s a spectacular Grade I listed Georgian Townhouse located in the heart of Westminster. It’s known for its elegant terraces and viewing platform overlooking St. James Park.

It houses the The British Academy and the Institute of Contemporary Arts . it’s mostly used as a venue for events and wedding receptions.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to hidden gems in London. You may enjoy these other London travel guides and resources:

• 3 Day Itinerary for London
• 5 Day Itinerary for London
• Tourist Traps To Avoid in London
• Free Museums in London
• Harry Potter Places in London
• Guide to the Tower of London
• Guide to the Churchill War Rooms
• Guide to The Wallace Collection
• Guide To Free Museums in London
• Guide To Hampton Court Palace
• Guide To the National Gallery of Art

If you’d like to visit some hidden gems in London, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on April 13, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

50+ Hidden Gems & Secret Spots in London You’ll Love

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 13th October 2023

Categories hidden gems , hidden london , London

Last Updated on 13th October 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Where do you escape the crowds in London? How do you see quirky sites without the queues? Well, the good news is that there are plenty of hidden gems , lying around the city and just waiting to be discovered. Here are 50+ secret spots in London you won’t want to miss in this alternative guide to London…

London is so much more than the River Thames and a few tourist snaps. Though you should definitely see the Houses of Parliament and large museums like that of the Natural History Museum, there are plenty of offbeat London attractions you should  also  visit on any trip to the Big Smoke. Hidden gems are spread around the city, just waiting to be discovered…

From the food you should eat, to places you should visit, this is your total guide to unusual, unique, quirky and offbeat activities in London. From the macabre to the weird, I’ve got you covered!

#1 Temple District, London EC4Y 7BB

#2 st dunstan-in-the-east, dunstan’s hill, london ec3r 5dd, #3 leadenhall market, gracechurch st, london ec3v 1lt, #4 sir john soane museum, 13 lincoln’s inn fields, london wc2a 3bp, #5 the smallest police station in the uk, trafalgar square, london wc2n 5dn, #6 st bartholomew’s the great, cloth fair, london ec1a 7jq, #7 ‘roman’ bath house off the strand, 5 strand ln, london wc2r 1ap, #8 strand/ aldwych station, 171 strand, london wc2r 1ep, #9 dr johnson’s house, 17 gough square, london ec4a 3de, #10 the tulip stairs, queen’s house, romney rd, greenwich, london se10 9nf, #11 the secrets of hampton court palace, #12 gordon’s wine bar, #13 word on the water, london’s only ‘book barge’, #14 cittie of yorke, #15 the old curiosity shop, #16 the ferryman’s seat, #17 little venice, #18 kyoto garden, holland park, #19 hampstead heath ponds, #20 stay on a boat, #21 visit the hunterian museum, #22 neal’s yard, #23 shop for wares at portobello road market, #24 walk down kynance mews, #25 visit barnes cemetery, #26 sip some tea at twinings tea shop, #27 eat at camden market, #28 the painted hall, #29 search for street art in shoreditch, #30 visit 221b baker street, #31 see the the hardy tree, #32 stroll through morden hall park, #33 buy flowers at columbia road flower market, #34 buy a book at hurlingham books, #35 see jeremy bentham’s body, #36 take a day trip to richmond, #37 check out the benjamin franklin house, #38 see the horniman museum and gardens, #39 visit the wallace collection, #40 check out the toy museum, #41 rent a boat at serpentine lake, #42 go up the monument to the great fire of london, #43 take a day trip to bletchley park, #44 witness the execution docks, #45 step into westminster cathedral, #46 ride on the postal train, #47 stroll through chelsea physic garden, #48 shop at daunt books, #49 visit john snow’s cholera pump, #50 relax in postman’s park, map of the best hidden gems of london, enjoyed reading about these secret spots in london you’ll love pin it now, read it again later:.

This set of passageways, secret alleyways, and churches are located in the very heart of the capital, just minutes away from the embankment of the Thames River.

The history of the secluded courtyard, Temple Church, and the other ancient buildings date back hundreds of years and even has links to the Knights Templar.

This order is even said to have built Temple Church themselves. You can’t go wrong by dedicating an hour or two to wandering the pedestrian-only streets, visiting the Church and snapping pictures of the secret gardens that make up this tiny little spot in central London. Nearby, this free and self-guided walking tour of London will help you explore another side of the city.

Once a grand church designed by Sir Christopher Wren (who also designed St Paul’s Cathedral) , the church was sadly decimated during the Blitz in WWII.

Today, all that remains of this once grand place of worship is its spire. The rest of the church has been transformed into a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city. Set amongst the skyscrapers, few people know about this tranquil spot- even the locals!

Best visited earlier in the day, so as to avoid the crowds, the beautiful Victorian architecture of Leadenhall Market is worth a visit, if only to see the amazing architecture and beautiful tones of the buildings.

Built on the site of the original Roman heart of ‘Londinium’, today the covered market is home to all kinds of vintage boutiques and independent shops and was even featured in Harry Potter .

The history of trading and market stalls here date back all the way back to the 14th-century, making this one of the oldest markets in the entire city.

For even more history close to Leadenhall Market , another hidden gem of the City of London is that of the Temple of Mithras. Long forgotten, a recent restoration project has seen the Roman remains once again opened up for the public to admire.

Small and quirky, the Sir John Soane’s Museum is situated at Lincoln’s Inn Fields. This house museum was once called ‘home’ by 19th-Century architect and collector, Sir John Soane. Upon his death, he bequeathed the house to the nation.

This museum is all kinds of bizarre, quirky and offbeat. Easily one of my favourite attractions in the city (though I may be biased as I used to volunteer here) , the Sir John Soane’s Museum is well worth a visit if you love art, history of anything Classical.

The collections are housed in a 19th Century building which was created to showcase all of the arts and ornaments at their very best. Upon Soane’s death in 1837, he bequeathed the house and the collections housed within it to the Nation, through passing an act of Parliament.

One of the very best things about the museum is that there is a no phone and no photography rule, meaning that you can really spend your time enjoying the exhibits- all without any distraction! For more information on the area, here’s my complete guide to Holborn !

The smallest police station in England is hidden in plain sight in one of the busiest squares of London. Located on the corner of Trafalgar Square, the police box dates all the way back to the 1920s.

Chiseled out of a repurposed lamp post, it provides secretive views over the entire square. Though it may not be officially recognised, it’s still worth a peek if you’re ever passing the area…

The smallest police station in the UK (if not all of Europe) is located in the very heart of where you’d least expect- Trafalgar Square!

Installed in an old lampost in the 1920s to keep an eye on protesters, today the station has been converted into a broom cupboard! That being said, you can still peek in the windows while passing on the way to the National Gallery…

Of all the secret spots in London on this list, the church of St Bartholomew’s the Great may well be my favourite. Situated in a little-known area, despite being so central, St Bartholomew’s the Great is one of the oldest churches in the city and is home to stained glass windows, beautiful carvings, and even its own set of cloisters.

Dating all the way back to Norman times, the church you see today was founded in 1123. Wander the cloisters (which house a coffee shop- though currently closed until further notice), and see architecture dating back hundreds of years. Nearby, you’ll find hidden London gems such as the Golden Boy of Pye Corner and the Charterhouse.

Most likely a ‘ fake Roman bath house ‘, the Bath House just off of the Strand is a quirky piece of history. Although not much to look at (the term ‘bath’ is a little grand for what is simply a basin created from cement), the bath is still worth a look, if only to learn more about its rich history.

Some secret spots in London are so well hidden that they are rarely in use. They’re so forgotten that hundreds, if not thousands of people pass by each day, without even realising they even exist. The abandoned tube station of Strand/ Aldwych is one of these places.

And it’s just one of many. After all, throughout the city, there are a series of disused and abandoned tube stations . While many of them are all but boarded up, some are still in use as film props or even guided tours. The abandoned tube station of Aldwych has been featured in TV and film productions such as Sherlock, 28 Weeks Later and Mr Selfridge.

Once home to acclaimed writer, Dr Samuel Johnson, this townhouse is an amazing example of late 17th-Century architecture at its finest.Though visiting a museum certainly isn’t one of the most unusual things to do in London, this museum is fairly off the beaten path and rather unique.

Located deep down a secluded little alleyway behind the district of Temple, you’ll find the Grade I building. In fact, it was in one of the rooms in the heart of number 17, Gough Square, that Johnson composed the dictionary in one of its earliest forms.

If you’re wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a day, then you might consider heading East of the city and towards Greenwich. This beautiful district of London is home to unusual London attractions such as the Greenwich Observatory, the Cutty Sark Ship, and even the Prime Meridian Time Line (the exact point zero from which all times on Earth are measured).

For those who are searching for cultural attractions, the National Maritime Museum is the largest museum of its kind, while the Queen’s House is all that remains of a once Royal Residence.

Today, it’s free to visit many of these museums and a wander inside the Queen’s House will guarantee the chance to spot the Tulip Stairs , the oldest set of self-supporting spiral stairs in Britain.

Though King Henry VIII’s Palace is undoubtedly one of the more popular day trips from London, the former Royal Residence has a history dating back well over five hundred years. And thus, hidden gems and secret locations are never too far away when it comes to this small snippet of history.

For example, did you know that the largest and oldest vine in the world can be found in a greenhouse on the palace grounds?

Or that the largely forgotten Queen Anne is the other famous monarch to have resided in Hampton Court? During her reign, Anne added an entire Baroque wing to the chapel! Elsewhere in the Palace, the story of the Midnight Flit deserves to be heard…

For a drink with friends or a romantic date night, there is no other wine bar in the city I can recommend more than Gordon’s . Easily one of the best-kept secrets of the Embankment area of London, this jewel of a bar is set against the backdrop of historic wine barrel cellars, this drinking establishment sells only one thing: wine.

While the intimate tables inside are former wine barrels, there’s also ample seating outdoors for the warmer summer evenings.

If you’re feeling a little peckish, then there are also cheese and cold cut boards on offer. Otherwise, be sure to arrive earlier on in the evening rather than later as the small space ends to fill up fast!

Floating on a canal close to King’s Cross, Word on the Water is easily one of the quirkiest and most beautiful bookshops in London. Open seven days a week, the permanent position of this boat close to Granary Square is actually a fairly new phenomenon. In times gone by, problems with licensing meant that the boat had to move around on an incredibly regular basis!

Set along High Holborn, many visitors don’t notice the tiny entryway that leads onto a dark corridor, which then leads into the Cittie of Yorke , a ‘ye olde’ pub in the heart of Zone one.

Though this pub may look ancient, it may well surprise you to know that, while there’s been a pub on site since the 14th-century, the current building was only constructed in the 1920s, using parts of the medieval pub.

Wander in today and you can expect to be greeted by the longest bar in the UK! Serving pints at such a reasonable price you’d be hard-pressed to find a better deal in central London, the pub also boasts intimate booths where you can enjoy a date night or catch up with friends.

The oldest shop in continuous operation in central London can be found in the form of The Old Curiosity Shop . Located in the Holborn district of the city, just a stone’s throw away from Lincoln’s Inn Fields, this shop is juxtaposed against the ever-so-modern architecture of LSE University. Now operating as a luxury shoe shop, it’s alleged that the shop was once frequented by Charles Dickens himself.

Close to the reconstructed Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, there’s a particularly unusual piece of flint in an otherwise unremarkable piece of wall.

Wedged into the side of a restaurant, it’s alleged that this is the final ‘ Ferryman’s Street ‘ and a throwback to a time when the only way to cross the River Thames would have been to pay ferrymen (or ‘wherrymen’ as they were often called) to transport passengers back and forth across the two sides of the water.

If you’re looking for a beautiful and quiet peaceful spot to while away a few hours while in London, I highly recommend visiting Little Venice, a little-known London hidden gem located at the spot where the Grand Union and Regent’s canals meet.

Characterised by its calm waters and many houseboats, the delightful neighbourhood boasts a number of cute cafés and pretty terraced houses (all perfect for snapping photos of so don’t forget your camera) . If you want to get a feel for what it’s like to be on the water, then consider booking this Regent’s Canal Waterbus Boat Trip to Camden.

Of all the secret spots in London listed here, the Kyoto Garden is easily one of the most beautiful, no to mention one of the most unique places anywhere in London.

Holland Park itself is 54 acres in size and filled with gardens, trees and a wooded area, making it a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of busy city life.

One of the hidden gems of the park that you should be sure to check out during your stay in the city is that of the Kyoto Garden. The Garden was installed in the 1990s.

One of the more unique outdoor activities you can do for free when visiting London during the summer is to head to the Hampstead Heath Ponds.

These bodies of water can be found in the Southern portion of the park and were originally created to serve as reservoirs for the ever-growing population of the city of London in the 17th and 18th-centuries.

Today, the ponds are popular for swimming among visitors and locals alike. Free to visit, you should note that the ponds can be a little chilly to swim in and so be sure to bring a towel and something to wrap up warm in after your dip!

While London might not be known for its waterways in the same way in which Amsterdam and Venice are, there’s still several unique accommodation spots dotted around the city.

One of the more off the beaten path places to stay in London is the Sunborn London , which is a boat which operates as a hotel! A 142-metre yacht hotel comprises which boasts 189 lavishly appointed rooms, other amenities include a cocktail lounge on board, and even a spa! Check prices and availability here.

Located in Lincoln’s Inn Fields, just across from the Sir John Soane Museum, there’s yet another weird and wonderful off the beaten path museum in London. Here you’ll find a history of surgery, as well as human and non-human specimens.

Though somewhat less of a hidden gem than even just a few short years ago, so be sure to visit earlier in the day and mid-week if possible. Neal’s Yard remains, nevertheless, a visit! A short few minutes walk from Covent Garden, you’ll find Neal’s Yard .

Tucked away on a little side street in the very middle of the Seven Dials district of London, Neal’s Yard is a colourful little square. An oasis of calm, it’s filled with ethical shops and eateries.

Notting Hill is one of the prettiest districts London has to offer. It’ also here that you’ll find Portobello Road Market, the largest antiques market in the world. Each weekend, over 1000 sellers set up their stalls to tout their wares to tourists and locals alike. For even more inspiration, check out our guide to Portobello Road Market.

If there’s one thing you must do while you’re in London, it’s that you should visit a mews. Spread throughout London, you’ll find a smattering of small alleyways collectively known as the ‘ mews streets ‘ of London.

Once used to house horses, they’re a throwback to a time when the city ran on horsepower. Today, they’re an oasis of calm, away from the bustle of busy city life. One of the prettiest Mews is that of Kynance Mews .

A short tube ride away from Zone 1, you’ll come across the lovely, little village of Barnes. Just outside of central London, you could easily be an entire world away from the hustle and bustle of busy city life. Nestled in the very middle of a green space in this sleepy area, you’ll find Barnes Cemetery .

The British are known for their love of tea… So it should come as no surprise that one of the most unusual offbeat London locations on this list is that of Twinings Tea Shop. What’s more is that the Flagship Twinings tea shop is in an oh-so-historic building that’s worth snapping a photo of when outside!

Camden is best known for its alternative scene, hip boutiques, and market. The area is filled with bars, clubs, and is popular with the large student population that London’s home to ( I used to live here myself while I was a student ). One of the best off the beaten path London activities to enjoy during the weekend is to head to Camden Market for yummy eats!

Of all the hidden gems of London listed here, one of the most beautiful places to visit is the Painted Hall, which is located in the Old Royal Naval College. Painted in the 18th century by Sir James Thornhill, the hall is thought to be one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in Europe.

Shoreditch is known for its street art. All around the district of East London there are murals from full-sized paintings to little hidden gems. If you want to discover even more about the history of Shoreditch, then consider taking a walking tour like this one.

No, Sherlock Holmes never existed but you can follow in the footsteps of Sherlock Holmes in London today. It may not surprise you, but 221b Baker Street didn’t exist when Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was writing about the detective in the late 19th-Century.

The address 221b Baker Street was only created in 1932 when the Abbey Bank moved its premises further up the street and street numbers were added to Baker Street. Today there is a museum in what is now 221b Baker Street.

A strange set of gravestones, placed there by the writer Thomas Hardy himself. Located in the cemetery of St Pancras Old Church, with the church itself thought to be one of the oldest places of Christian worship in England, the tombstones were moved to a circular pattern around an ash tree when they had to be moved during an expansion of St. Pancras. Please note that, sadly, following a storm in December 2022, the tree at the centre of the gravestones fell down.

An oasis of calm in the outskirts of the city, Morden Hall Park is one of the most serene spots in London.

Want to know where local Londoners buy their flowers? Look no further. If you’re looking for something to do come Sunday brunch time, then you need look no further. Columbia Road Flower market has it all: budget friendly, chic, hip and pretty.

Columbia Road Flower Market is only held on Sundays (although some shops are open on other days of the week). The flower market runs between 8 AM and mid afternoon (depending on how quickly everything sells/ weather etc.)

Second-hand bookstores are dotted throughout London. They may be a dime a dozen, but one of my absolute favourites is that of Hurlingham Books . It’s the kind of old-fashioned quirky bookstore that’s becoming harder and harder to find.

Books are stacked from floor to ceiling; all vintage, many rare. Second-hand copies of books comprising of all genres lie next to rare finds and vintage binds. In fact, although there are often book readings and various events, spaces are always limited due to most of the space being taken up by the books themselves!

Right in the middle of UCL, a prestigious university in central London, you’ll find the body of Jeremy Bentham. The university’s philosophical founder’s body sits in a widely used corridor at the very heart of the university…

Well, in a will made shortly before Bentham’s death, he stipulated that Jeremy Bentham’s body be made into an auto-icon of himself (i.e.a self-image using body parts that would be dressed and sat as if he were still alive).

In 2013, Jeremy Bentham’s body was wheeled into a UCL board meeting to be seated alongside his living university colleagues. He was listed as ‘present but not voting’. Today, he sits locked safely away in his own cupboard. The locks are in use as a result of numerous student pranks involving his body.

A charming town on the fringes of London, Richmond is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. As well as a sprawling park where you can go for long walks, there’s also the ruins of Richmond Palace to discover, as well as the historic Ham House to visit.

Benjamin Franklin’s only residence in London is the Benjamin Franklin House, which is now a small house museum which can be visited for a small fee.

A little oasis outside of central London, Horniman Museum and Gardens are best-visited in the spring when everything looks its best.

Ornate, golden and full of vintage antiques, the Walle Collection is free to visit.

Not far from Covent Garden, the oldest toy museum in London is Pollock’s Toy Museum.

Spend the afternoon in the sun while renting a boat on Serpentine Lake.

Go up the Monument to the Great Fire of London. Just outside of Monument Tube station, you’ll find the Monument to the Great Fire of London , which provides great views of the Big Smoke at a low cost.

The monument was built to both commemorate the fire and celebrate the rebuilding of London. The chief architects were Christopher Wren ( also architect of St Paul’s Cathedral ) and Robert Hooke ( also architect of Montagu house ). 

Built between 1671 and 1777, the monument stands at 202 feet tall. If you don’t know much London history, then the Great Fire of London took place in 1666 and you can learn even more should you opt to visit the Monument.

Code breakers in WWII were situated here and today visitors can learn about WWII history by heading to Bletchley Park.

Witness first-hand the history of London by heading to the Execution Docks.

Most people have heard of Westminster Abbey, but few know about Westminster Cathedral. Situated in the heart of London, those who are interested in history must visit Westminster Cathedral.

One of the more unique experiences to have in London is to ride on the Postal Train.

Of all the unusual things to do in London, perhaps this is the least expected. Smell sweet herbs and flowers at the Chelsea Physic Garden.

Step right back in time and visit Daunt Books . Located in leafy Marylebone, you could easily get lost for hours in the Edwardian built store. Opened in the 1990s, Daunt Books is a chain of bookshops dotted around central London.

The brainchild of former banker, James Daunt, the first flagship store opened at 83 Marylebone High Street. You’ll also see William Morris printed wallpaper and row upon row of oak, wooden bookshelves. Set over two floors, many believe that this may well have been the first custom-built bookstore in the world.

Thought to be the cause of the cholera outbreak in 1854, today John Snow’s Cholera Pump can still be visited by the public.

Skip the busier parks, and head to Postman’s Park for a serene and relaxing experience.

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Nic's Adventures

Wednesday 17th of May 2023

Thanks for sharing, these secret spots, I have visited a couple of these, whist doing a couple of walks and also getting lost to find other places, there are still some I would like to visit one day :)

Sophie Nadeau

Tuesday 23rd of May 2023

London is just so vast that there's definitely always more to explore :)

Tuesday 20th of October 2020

Lovely little selection, Sophie: thank you.

I give guided walks in the City and would agree with these as highlights. If you're coming back and there's not a global pandemic on, I think you'd like: The Garden at 120 Greenwich Shad Thames St Stephen Walbrook Liberty

Saturday 20th of April 2019

Very nice post, although, if I'm not mistaken, the oldest vine in Europe is in Slovenia (in Maribor), which would thus make Hampton Court's vine impossible to be the oldest in the world. Btu who knows if the person who said that was not a little tipsy? :-)

Thursday 14th of March 2019

I was only at the National Maritime Museum the other week, wish I'd known about the tulip stairs, I'd have dragged my son over to Queen's house just for those!

Mike from TravelAndDestinations

Tuesday 23rd of January 2018

Top post Sophie. I can't wait to check a few of these hidden gems out when I'm next in London! Thanks for sharing!

37 Best Hidden Gems in London [with map of locations]

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 15, 2024

When you visit London for the first time, it might be all about ticking off the big London landmarks. The River Thames, Westminster, Big Ben, St Paul’s, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Trafalgar Square… the list goes on. And on.  

But on a repeat visit – or if you simply like to see the alternative side to a city – you might be more interested in the hidden gems of London. These secret places in London have more of an undiscovered air, making you feel as if you’ve stumbled upon something really special. 

Such hidden places in London are exactly what this article is all about. From secret things to do in London that will give you a real thrill to hidden spots in London that you didn’t know existed, these are the best hidden places in London that every tourist doesn’t know about.

We recommend a private driver-guided tour with Discover Real London – escape the tourist trail in an Iconic London Taxi that takes you on a voyage of discovery that scratches beneath the surface of this incredible city. On this half-day tour, you will explore unexpected places that only Londoners know.

If you really like to get under the skin of a city and live like a local, here are 37 of the top hidden things to do in London. Which will be the best hidden gems in London for you? Read on to find out!

1. Shad Thames

2. st dunstans in the east , 3. coal drops yard + canal walk to camden, 4. painted hall, 5. tulip stairs, 6. greenwich foot tunnel, 7. historic pubs (including ye olde mitre, ye olde cheshire cheese and the churchill arms), 8. leake street arches, 9. temple of mithraeum, 10. city of london dragons, 11. leadenhall market, 12. cross bones burial ground, 13. the silver vaults, 14. sir john soane’s museum, 15. chelsea physic garden, 16. columbia road flower market, 17. benjamin franklin house, 18. little venice, 19. primrose hill.

• 20. Battersea Park Children's Zoo

21. POP Brixton 

22. sky garden, 23. eltham palace, 24. alexandra palace, 25. kyoto garden, 26. brick lane, 27. nomadic community gardens, 28. neal’s yard, 29. the royal exchange, 30. sis building, 31. the postal museum and mail rail, 32. postman’s park, 33. hampstead heath, 34. canbury gardens, 35. the musical museum, 36. clapham south deep level shelter, 37. the photographer’s gallery, which hidden gems in london will you visit, london travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks).

⭐️ Best hidden gem tours of London ⭐️

• Discover Real London Black Cab Tours – The London De-Tour
• Secrets of London Walking Tour
• London: 3-Hour Secret British Food Tour
• Secret Gardens of London Full-Day Tour

37 of the best hidden gems in London

Closest tube: Tower Hill 

The first of our secret gems in London is literally hidden in plain sight. Shad Thames is actually the name of a street, but this has since been adopted to cover a wider range. This zone is a historic, cobblestoned area to the south of the Thames.

You can find Shad Thames in Bermondsey. The area is lined with vibrant, riverside bars and restaurants. Old Victorian warehouses here are joined overhead by little walkways, and the whole place is an Instagrammer’s dream. 

Closest tube: Monument or Tower Hill

Another of our hidden treasures in London can also be found not far from Tower Hill tube station. St Dunstans in the East was bombed and thus destroyed during World War II, but the remains have now been repurposed as a pretty public garden. 

The original church was by Christopher Wren, who designed St Paul’s Cathedral. Plus over 50 other London churches. Draping greenery, a tumbling fountain and attractive wooden seating makes this the ideal place for a lunch break in the city.

Closest tube: King’s Cross or St Pancras

This shopping and leisure space close to King’s Cross is one of those London hidden attractions that’s close to major routes. Tucked away by the vast King’s Cross and St Pancras stations, the development has been popular since its 2018 opening. 

Victorian architecture, quirky boutiques and foodie delights combine here, so there’s something to suit everyone. The converted warehouses were used during the 19th century for coal storage, hence the name. For Kings Cross hidden gems concealed in plain sight, head to Coal Drops Yard. 

Closest tube: Cutty Sark (DLR) or North Greenwich

One of the best secret things to do in London gives you yet another reason to visit Greenwich while in the city. The Painted Hall can be found at the Old Royal Naval College, and boasts more than 40,000 square feet of wall and ceiling murals. Gorgeous arched windows make the room an even more breathtaking sight. 

The Hall was the work of Sir James Thornhill during the early 18th century, and the paintings include over 200 figures, such as royalty and mythical creatures. A two year renovation project completed in 2019 means that today you can see the hall at its finest. 

Closest tube: Greenwich or Maze Hill Stations (mainline) or Cutty Sark (DLR)

Another of the cool hidden places in London can also be found in Greenwich. The Tulip Stairs can be found at The Queen’s House. It’s a spiralling and very photogenic staircase.

The Tulip Stairs are actually decorated with fleur de lys rather than tulips. This was the UK’s first cantilevered, spiralling staircase, and it has no central supportive column. Like the house itself, the staircase was the brainchild of Inigo Jones, a celebrated British architect of the 16th and 17th centuries. 

Closest tube: Island Gardens (DLR)

Yet another of the hidden secrets of London is Greenwich Foot Tunnel. This has been open since 1902, and connects Greenwich with Millwall. Perhaps surprisingly, about 1.2 million people use the tunnel annually.

The tunnel is only for pedestrians, not scooters or bikes. It’s open 24 hours and there are lifts, though these can be prone to intermittent service issues.

Taking a walk to explore London’s most historic pubs can be a fascinating way to uncover the capital’s past. Ye Olde Mitre in Holborn is a typical example, and this wooden panelled hostelry dates from 1587. There’s a good collection of old photos inside too. Alternatively, head to the photogenic and flower-bedecked Churchill Arms in Notting Hill. 

Some of the best tours of London’s old pubs include:

• Small group walking tour of historic London pubs | 3.5 hours | from St Paul’s tube station
• Royal historic pubs tour of London | 2.5 hours | from Piccadilly Circus
• Soho musical historic pubs tour | 2.5 hours | from Piccadilly Circus
• Historic London pubs tour | 2 hours | from Chancery Lane tube station
• London pub crawl | 4 to 5 hours | from The Camden Eye, Kentish Town Road

Closest tube: Waterloo

One of the best kept secrets of London is Leake Street Arches. This is a subterranean art gallery concealed beneath Waterloo station. You can even join in with the capital’s street art scene here, as graffiti within the authorised area is actually encouraged. 

Visit Leake Street Arches and you can decorate the tunnel walls, eat, shop, drink and play at the variety of venues found here. 

Closest tube: Bank

The Roman temple of Mithras was discovered in the course of construction work in 1954. This large site was then excavated, and visiting takes you back to London as it was in AD 240. 

The original ruin has now been recreated, so you can imagine how it was used back then. PLus how the secretive Roman cult of Mithras met in this precise spot in Wallbrook, City of London.  Of all the hidden London gems, this is one of the most important archeological finds ever. 

Also in the city’s financial district are the City of London dragons. These silver dragons with red accents feature the cross of St George, the coat of arms of the city and references to St Paul and the story of St George and the Dragon. 

The dragons mark the city boundaries, and there are 14 in total dotted around the area. A pair of the original Coal Exchange statues are located on Victoria Embankment, and these hidden London secrets have been Grade II listed since 1972. 

Closest tube: Monument

Though lesser known than Borough Market to the south of the river, Leadenhall is positioned on Gracechurch Street in the East End. It’s a light and airy covered market offering unique boutiques, foodie haunts and more. 

This attractive market dates back to the 1300s, and was used for filming some Harry Potter movie scenes. It’s a cool place to eat, drink and shop, and you can drop in 24/7 as it’s open all day and night long. One of the best East London hidden gems for sure. 

Closest tube: London Bridge

If you have a penchant for the gorier side of life – and death – then head for Cross Bones in Southwark. This is the final resting place for up to 15,000 paupers who worked in this lawless neighbourhood as prostitutes – and among the hidden gems of south London. 

At the time, these women of the street were known as “Winchester Geese”. The burial ground closed in 1853, and now acts merely as a memorial to a grittier London way of life. 

Closest tube: Chancery Lane

The Silver Vaults are a large subterranean market beneath Chancery Lane. These vaults are now home to silver jewellers and retailers, so you can buy all sorts of silverware here. 

Silver items dating from the 17th century to the present day can be purchased at London’s Silver Vaults. It’s not only jewellery on offer – you can also buy top quality cutlery, tableware, collector’s and decorative items and fine jewellery. 

Closest tube: Holborn

Sir John Soane’s is one of the capital’s lesser known museums, and is also one of the true hidden treasures in London. It’s named for the neo-classical architect whose home it once was, and can be found at Lincoln’s Inn Fields in Holborn.

This London museum is all about the eccentric, the colourful and the unusual. The objects housed here cover many centuries of art and design. 

Closest tube: Sloane Square

The entrance to Chelsea Physic Garden can be found at 66 Hospital Road, in one of London’s most upmarket neighbourhoods. This outdoor space is a very pleasant place to be, especially on a sunny summer’s day. 

The garden was established in 1673 for the purpose of growing plants to use in medicines. Set up by the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries, it was formerly known as the Apothecaries’ Garden. If possible, this is one of those London hidden attractions to save for good weather. 

Closest tube: Hoxton (mainline) or Bethnal Green, Liverpool Street, Old Street or Shoreditch

Columbia Road flower market is one for the early risers. You can buy flowers and plants a-plenty here, or simply wander at will to soak up the sights and scents if purchasing isn’t practical while you’re travelling.

Visiting this flower market gives you a genuine insight into East End life, complete with eccentric characters, local banter and good-natured bartering. 

Closest tube: Charing Cross or Embankment

Benjamin Franklin House is dedicated to Benjamin Franklin one of the Founding Fathers of the United States of America. The Georgian terraced house dates from around 1730, and Franklin worked and lived here for more than 15 years.

Closest tube: Warwick Avenue

Little Venice is where London’s waterways meet – Regent’s Canal, the Grand Union Canal and the Paddington Basin entrance. The resulting triangular shaped body of water is the heart of Little Venice. It’s a peaceful, well-heeled part of town, and the canals here are among the best hidden places in London. 

Things to do in this area include visiting the waterside pubs, cafes and restaurants. You can also venture to London Zoo and Regent’s Park, or take a wander or waterbus boat trip to Camden Town . 

Closest tube: Chalk Farm

Primrose Hill is a pleasant part of London favoured by celebrities – and local dog walkers. Also close to Regent’s Canal and Camden Town, the area offers lovely homes and unparalleled views of London from the top. 

Chalk Farm tube station is under 10 minutes’ walk from the famous hill and city viewpoint. 

20. Battersea Park Children’s Zoo

London Zoo might be bigger and better known, but Battersea Park Children’s Zoo is one of the best hidden spots in London. Set south of the river within Battersea Park, it has a range of smaller creatures to see plus a fun interactive adventure playground. 

If you want to find hidden gems for family vacations in London , head here. As well as the zoo, the park itself offers around 200 acres of play space. 

Closest tube: Brixton

Another reason to head south of the Thames is to visit POP Brixton. Brightly decorated shipping containers await at this place, one of the hidden gems of south London. 

The containers are packed with fun places to eat, shop and drink. Whether to sample street food, shop or attend a special event, this part of town is always buzzing. 

London’s Sky Garden is the highest garden in the whole of the UK. It’s free to enter, but you do need to book a ticket online, up to three weeks prior to your visit. There are several bars and restaurants here, and booking for these is also advised. 

Whether it’s to pick up unique gifts at the shop, enjoy Italian or fine dining at one of the restaurants, sip a late-night drink at the bar or simply gaze at the magnificent views, dropping into the Sky Garden is one of the best hidden things to do in London. 

Closest tube: Mottingham (mainline)

Eltham Palace and Gardens occupies a site of almost 20 acres outside central London. Hidden gems near London don’t come much better than this art deco delight. You can reach it by travelling to Mottingham station, which is a ten-minute walk from the palace. 

The palace has a varied and interesting history. It’s been a royal residence during Tudor times, a mediaeval palace and home to a pair of offbeat millionaires, the Courtaulds. Highlights include the mediaeval great hall, a selection of period costumes, rose and rock gardens and the glasshouse cafe.  

Closest tube: Alexandra Palace (mainline) or Wood Green

Fondly known as Ally Pally, Alexandra Palace is one of the locals’ north London hidden gems to know about. The Grade II listed building is used as a venue for all sorts of entertainment, from sports to musical and theatrical performances. 

There’s always something going on, from a big name concert or winter ice skating to theatre tours and DJ sets. 

Closest tube: Holland Park

Kyoto Garden is an oasis of oriental outdoor style in Holland Park, close to Kensington and Notting Hill. The garden was actually gifted to the UK capital by the city of Kyoto in Japan, and has been open since 1991.

Which other London secret places to visit come with koi carp stocked ponds, the chance of spotting peacocks strutting around, tiered waterfalls and of course colourful Japanese acer or maple trees?

Closest tube: Aldgate East

Hidden food gems in London don’t come any finer than Brick Lane. There are few places on earth where you can sample so many Indian restaurants in one stretch. The area is also firmly planted on London’s street art scene.

Come with a fully charged camera, an eye for wall murals and an empty belly, and you’ll be in heaven in Brick Lane. 

If you’re in the Brick Lane area, don’t miss one of the Shoreditch hidden gems in this part of town. It’s the Nomadic Community Gardens, a dazzling spot in East London filled with street art and sculptures.

The gardens were founded for growing fresh food, and there are plenty of pop up cafes here where you can pick up a coffee. 

Closest tube: Covent Garden

If it’s Covent Garden hidden gems you want to uncover, then head for Neal’s Yard. Just a stone’s throw from the tube station, this charming neighbourhood is awash with colour and character. 

Quirky, independent businesses make this attractive area what it is, and don’t miss the original Neal’s Yard Remedies store. It also has a residential feel, as people actually live here in the flats above the lovely shops and eateries. 

Closest tube: Bank or Cannon Street

The 16th century, Grade I listed Royal Exchange is another of the city’s architectural and cultural secrets. Like other hidden gems in central London, it would be easy to miss. But if you’re in the City of London area, do drop in!

Here you can expect to find a range of appealing places to eat, drink and dine, including The Fortnum’s Bar and Restaurant. This comes from the prestigious Piccadilly store of the same name. 

Closest tube: Vauxhall

Skyfall is one of the most iconic James Bond movies. If you’re a fan of the franchise, you cannot miss the SIS building in London, aka the MI6 HQ in Skyfall. 

Though a reproduction was constructed at Pinewood Studios, you can see the original if you head to the Vauxhall area. You can find it at 85 Albert Embankment, and it’s the real-life HQ of the UK’s Secret Intelligence Service. 

For the most unexpected and best secret things to do in London, how about hopping onto the Post Office Railway? This underground, narrow gauge railway was used to transfer mail between sorting offices, and is driverless. 

The Postal Museum and Mail Rail are across the street from one another, so you can also pop in there to learn more. As for the train service, it was suspended in 2003 for economic reasons, but a ride on it is now included in the Postal Museum’s ticket price. 

Closest tube: St Paul’s

If you’re in the vicinity of the City of London or St Paul’s Cathedral, don’t miss Postman’s Park. It’s so called as it was used at lunchtime by staff from the former General Post Office close by. 

The Watts memorial, dating from 1900, can also be found here. This comprises a wall of memorial plaques dedicated to ordinary people who tragically lost their own lives while trying to save the lives of others. 

Closest tube: Hampstead

Hampstead Heath is both famous and infamous. The park is where British pop star George Michael was once caught cruising. It also offers over 300 hectares of green space between Hampstead and Highgate. 

Though the ancient heath is only four miles from the centre of the city, it feels so much further away. With woodland, meadows and 18 ponds, there’s always a quiet corner here to call your very own.

Closest tube: Kingston (mainline)

For hidden gems in Kingston upon Thames, Canbury Gardens fits the bill. This is also a lovely space in which to escape the city. The attractions of the gardens include tennis courts, a kids’ play park, a bandstand and The Boaters Inn pub.

The pub is a gem in itself, with a riverside position, a microbrewery and live jazz on Sundays. 

Closest tube: South Ealing

Located near Kew Bridge in Brentford, The Musical Museum is one of the hidden gems in the Ealing area. It’s home to an amazing assortment of musical instruments. In the concert hall, you can see the Mighty Wurlitzer theatre organ.

Also found at The Musical Museum are interactive displays sharing how music is made and recorded. Tours take place here several times per day. 

Closest tube: Clapham South

Clapham South Deep Level Shelter was used during World War II, and is located more than 10 storeys below the surface of the city. More than a mile of underground passages connects the shelters. 

It’s a fascinating place to visit, though restricted to over-14s only. Tours can be booked via the London Transport Museum. 

Closest tube: Oxford Circus

And finally, this list draws to a close with one of the hidden gems of Soho. It’s rather hard to believe that The Photographers’ Gallery was the very first dedicated photography gallery in the UK, but so it is. It opened in 1971.

This gallery features works by local and international photographers, spread over six floors. There is also a cafe and bookshop on site. 

We hope this list of hidden places in London to see has inspired your trip itinerary. From hidden gems in Covent Garden, right in the thick of things, to unknown places to visit in London that are located a little outside the city, there are plenty of appealing indoor and outdoor spaces to add to your hit-list. 

Whether you’re in the area anyway or want to make a day of it, a visit to any of these super cool secrets of London is always worthwhile. It’s sure to give you lots of images and memories to share with your envious friends and family back home, too!

• Covent Garden
• Notting Hill
• South Kensington
• London itineraries
• Things to do
• Where to stay
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• London life

London Life & Inspiration

10 amazing hidden gems in london.

London is an incredibly beautiful city . It’s also a very big city and an extremely popular tourist destination. If you already know all the main landmarks in London, and are looking for something a little different, this is the guide for you.

After living in London for 8 years I can say I’ve explored it far and wide, from the main tourist hubs to the secret spots only Londoners know.

For those who are looking to get off the beaten track, I’ve put together a compilation of the 10 most amazing hidden gems in London, which everyone should add to their London bucket list !

In this guide:

• 1.1 Camden Passage
• 1.2 Kingly Court
• 1.3 Granary Square
• 1.4 Primrose Hill
• 1.5 The Scoop
• 1.6 Seven Dials Market
• 1.7 Pop Brixton
• 1.8 St Dunstan in the East
• 1.9 Regent’s Canal

10 incredible secret spots in London you have to discover

Camden passage.

This quirky little street in Angel is one of my favourite places in London. Angel as an area is still quite hidden from the main tourist radar, but Camden Passage especially is still a secret gem waiting to be found.

The road is primarily pedestrian and lined with lots of cute cafes , restaurants and vintage shops. Traditional English brick exposed houses line the sides of the street, some of them with cute plants and balconies hanging outside.

It’s a particularly popular spot on weekends, when you can find a bustling market and lots of people out for brunch. My personal favourite food place here is Crepe Affaire, quick and tasty!

I lived in Angel for three years and can highly recommend it as one of the best areas to stay in London .

Kingly Court

You wouldn’t expect something located so centrally in London to be considered a secret gem, and yet I find it is.

Located just off Carnaby Street, one of the prettiest streets in London , Kingly Court is often overlooked by all the people that wander down Carnaby Street.

Few look down the tiny corridor that leads to Kingly Court, a beautiful courtyard that offers a huge choice of bars and restaurants. There is a central courtyard with outdoor seating, and two floors of bars and restaurants looking down on the courtyard.

If you’re not sure what you fancy eating, just pop by in Kingly Court, there is so much choice you are sure to find something you like! I personally love Stax Diner, they have great burgers!

Granary Square

Granary Square has recently become one of my favourite spots for brunch in London . Up until a few years ago there wasn’t much around here, until they completely revamped the area.

Today you can find loads of bars , restaurants , shops and plenty of spots to bask in the sun in summer. Granary Square and Coal’s Drop Yard, a new outdoors shopping area, are located just behind Kings Cross Station.

Amongst Londonders it’s a popular weekend brunch destination, but it’s not famous yet amongst tourists.

I love it especially in summer, when the big steps leading down to the canal are covered in fake grass, and you can find people enjoying drinks in the sunshine and relaxing along the canal.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jurgita Pleskyte (@jurgaspurga13)

Primrose Hill

If you’re looking for a moments escape from the busy city life, Primrose Hill can give you that. Located on the Northern end of Regents Park, Primrose Hill is a 60m hill with sweeping views over the London skyline .

From up there you can see the Shard, the London Eye and the skyscrapers of the city peeking over the top of the treeline. It’s the perfect place to visit in summer, enjoy some time in the sun and relax away from the tourist crowds.

On hot summer days it’s often busy with Londoners enjoying picnics and drinks in the sun, but amongst tourists it’s still a secret spot. It’s one of the best parks in London , but still fairly unknown.

If you’re visiting London in winter you should still add it to your itinerary, there will be less people around and it’s still a great sunset spot!

The Scoop is in a very touristy part of London, and yet it doesn’t receive nearly as much attention as its neighbouring attractions.

Located along More London Place, just under one of London’s icons ; Tower Bridge, the Scoop is an outdoor amphitheatre. In summer it’s one of my favourite places in London.

Next to the Scoop they set up a bar, a street food truck, chairs and sunbeds, as well as a big screen. Here they play all sorts of movies, sports matches, and even a group karaoke on Friday nights!

It’s the perfect place to go if you want to enjoy a drink, tasty food and fun company while admiring one of the main attractions in London, without major tourist crowds around.

It’s also a very photogenic spot if you’re trying to share more London Instagram photos !

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Danny Bent (@danny_bent)

Seven Dials Market

Most of the amazing secret spots in London I’ve shared so far are places that are especially enjoyable in summer, so figured it was time for something a little different. Seven Dials Market is an indoor food court close to Covent Garden .

Despite being so central, it is still a fairly unknown attraction in London. The market is located inside an old banana warehouse, which has been readapted to its new purpose.

The venue is split over two floors with a central seating area and food stalls that line up the walls. For a place so small, there is a huge variety of food you can enjoy, from truffle burgers to ramen, as well as a bar with lots of drinks choices.

It’s the perfect place to go if you want to sample different foods and enjoy the fun atmosphere.

Especially if you don’t have long in London, it’s so central you’re bound to be in the area (need help planning your brief London trips? Check out my London 1-day and 2-day itineraries ).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Seven Dials Market (@sevendialsmkt)

Pop Brixton

Another unique foodie secret spot that you have to visit is Pop Brixton. Brixton is an area in South London famous for its hipster and quirky style, and Pop Brixton perfectly reflects that.

Pop Brixton is a temporary project, but we sure hope it will stay for longer! They took a disused plot of land, and turned it into a really cool space that showcases local Brixton and Lambeth businesses.

Combining street food, drinks and shopping it brings it all together in a creative space. There are a number of central dining tables so you can grab food from any of the stalls and then sit with your friends, eat and have fun!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pop Brixton (@popbrixton)

St Dunstan in the East

This is another of those super central spots, which don’t receive anywhere near as many visitors as you might expect.

Saint Dunstan in the East is a church that was largely destroyed during the Second World War. It’s located between Monument and Tower Hill and the ruins are now a public garden.

Very different from everything else in this secret spots list, you won’t find bars and restaurants at St Dunstan in the East.

It’s a very tranquil spot that the history and culture fans will love, but also anyone looking for a moments break from the chaos of London city life will appreciate.

Entrance is free and you can just wander in.

Regent’s Canal

Everybody knows the River Thames, but how many of you have heard of Regent’s Canal? Regent’s Canal goes all the way from Little Venice to the Docklands, crossing a lot of scenic and famous areas of London in the process.

I always love walking in London , bust especially so along the canal on a sunny day.

Especially in summer , you will often see commuters running or cycling along the canal, friends sitting in the sun having a beer and couples walking holding hands. Londoners love Regent’s Canal, but it’s still a fairly hidden gem when it comes to tourists.

Some of the most popular spots of the canal are behind Kings Cross when it goes past Granary Square, when it crosses Camden Market and Little Venice.

Depending on what you’re looking for there is something for everyone. I personally love walking along the canal instead of taking public transport to get around London if I’m not in a rush to get somewhere.

Alexandra Palace

My first time visiting Alexandra Palace was for the 10 th  year anniversary of my department at work (I used to work in the corporate world and parties could get very flashy).

Known by Londoners as Ally Pally, Alexandra Palace is a huge palace and park located in North London.

Make sure to check out the Alexandra Palace official website, as they have all sorts of events on all year round, including ice skating shows, concerts, vintage market sales, vegan cooking classes and more.

If you’re looking to get away from the chaos of the city you can also just go for a wander around the park gardens.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alexandra Palace (@yourallypally)

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Final thoughts on secret local spots in London

Have you been to any of these secret spots in London? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below! If there are other quirky off the beaten track places that you think should feature in this bucket list let me know!

I wanted to put together a compilation of hidden gems in London for those who have already visited the city and have seen all the main attractions, or even for first timers who want to get off the beaten path.

I hope you find this guide useful in planning your time in London away from the crowds!

Enjoyed reading about the best hidden gems in London? Pin it!

Greta Omoboni is a full time blogger based in London. After 3.5 years of blogging about destinations all over the world on her main site, Greta's Travels, she decided to start a new site, dedicated to her second home and favourite city; London!

29 thoughts on “ 10 Amazing Hidden Gems In London ”

Great info, thank you! I’ll be there next month and will certainly use this list!

You’re welcome, glad you found it useful! 🙂

I used to live in London and I’ve only been to four of these spots! Shame on me. I’m always missing it, so I’ll have to drag my American husband over to experience them all.

I know the feeling, when you live somewhere it always feels like you’ll have time another day to go do / see something and then you never get round to it! Always a good excuse to go back though 🙂

So much to see! Saving this list for my next time to London

Glad I could be helpful!

Love these thanks! They are going to come in super handy on my next European tour as many of the tours start in London and I’ve seen some of the main attractions now. You’ve got me looking forward to Sky Garden and St Dunstan in the East especially – seems like the perfect spot for gorgeous photos.

Sky Garden is definitely an incredible place for pictures!

Thank you so much for sharing these places! As every London tourist I´ve missed them all while visiting lol now saved for my future trips! Would especially love to check St Dunstan in the East!

Haha nothing to be ashamed of! Gives you a good excuse to come back 😉

I’m going to England in June and these have got me so much more excited! I love the look of Camden Passage and Ally Pally! Thanks for these!

You’re welcome, glad you found it useful! Ally Pally in summer is going to be beautiful!

Love all the pictures. Cannot wait to plan my trip to London and go visit all these cool spots.

Thanks! You’re going to have an incredible time in London 🙂

Amazing list of spots! Where was this when I was in London years ago?! Will definitely have to make a trip back and use this post as a guide.

Haha always a good excuse to come back!

Love your recommendations. Adding them all to my list.

Thanks! Glad I could be helpful 🙂

There were definitely spots on this list I had not seen before. Every time I go to London I spend more time eating meat pies and beer than photographing anything! There are some really cool photo spots that I am sure my hubby would thoroughly enjoy – great list!

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it! Haha yes with so many good food options around London it’s easy to get sidetracked, after all tasting the local food is a huge part about visiting a new place!

London is one of my favorite cities in the world! Love your list of hidden gems

What an enjoyable read! London is one of mye favorite cities, just can’t get enough of it. Next time I’ll definitely look into Sky Garden, WHAT a view 🙂

Sky Garden is definitely one of the most incredible views in London!

This is a great guide and will be useful when I travel there.

I live in the Netherlands and have never visited the UK before. Still planning my trip to London and will definitely visit this city when all the virus os gone! Especially with the direct train from Rotterdam to London – it gets so easy for us to visit. 🙂

For sure, it’s quicker with the train than flying! Hope you get to visit London soon 🙂

Very nice article! I love your pictures! I have never been to London! Seeing all these places full of happy people is quite nice these days…

Thanks, glad you liked it!

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23 Best London Hidden Gems And Secret Spots

London is a city steeped in rich history and home to some of the world’s most iconic buildings. But amidst the hustle and bustle of the major attractions, lie London hidden gems to uncover.

Discovering these off-the-beaten-path locations opens up a whole new world of possibilities that will leave you mesmerized. From tucked away bookshops to vibrant street art, fascinating art galleries to quaint coffee shops, these hidden gems are the soul of London. With each turn of the corner, you will find something new to spark your interest and awaken your senses. So, pack comfortable shoes and an adventurous spirit, and get ready to uncover the secrets of London’s hidden gems.

Top Hidden Gems in London

These London secret spots are dotted around the capital, and therefore it’s best to visit these cool places over several days if you have time.

1. Kyoto Garden

One of the most beautiful gems of London , the Kyoto Garden was a gift from the city of Kyoto, Japan in 1991. Spread over 55 acres, this park is a tranquil place with a koi carp pond, stone lanterns and beautiful trees.

The Kyoto Gardens are free to enter and worth visiting at any time of year, especially in Autumn when the foliage is at its finest. They are open from 7.30 am each morning and close 30 minutes before dusk.

Address: Kyoto Garden, Holland Park Avenue, Kensington, London W11 4UA

2. Chelsea Physic Garden

Located just off upmarket Cheyne Walk, you’ll find the historic Chelsea Physic Garden. One of the most charming hidden London gems, it also serves an educational purpose.

It was founded in 1673  in order to train apprentices in the use of medicinal plants. Around 5,000 plants on display, each with their usage clearly explained. There’s a book and gift shop, as well as Tangerine Dream cafe overlooking the lawn.

Address: 66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, London SW3 4HS

3. Leighton House Museum

This rather unique building looks impressive enough on the outside but the real surprise is inside Leighton House . Situated in the upmarket Holland Park area, it’s decorated in an opulent Eastern style. The highlight is the Arab Hall’s stunning blue mosaics and gold dome.

It was the home of Lord Leighton and is the only purpose built studio house open to the public in the UK. Construction started in 1865 and continued until 1895, with many embellishments being added throughout the years.

Address: Leighton House Museum, 12 Holland Park Rd, Kensington, London W14 8LZ

4. Camden Passage

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Angel, Camden Passage is one of London’s hidden gems that you shouldn’t miss. There’s a regular street antiques market, as well as several antique shops, independent coffee houses and restaurants.

Etc . has a good selection of gifts, whilst Paul A Young is a mecca for chocolate lovers. The main market days are Wednesday and Saturday, as well as a book market on Thursday and Fridays in Pierrepont Arcade.

Address: 1 Camden Passage, The Angel, London N1 8EA

5. Secret Garden in Regents Park

We could tell you where this place is, but first we’d have to kill you…just joking! This off the beaten path London park is so hidden away that many locals don’t know of its existence.

Nestled inside a discreet gate in the Inner Circle of Regent’s Park, St John’s Lodge Gardens is one of our favourite secret places in London.

Admire the artworks in this beautiful park such as the Grade II listed Goatherd Daughter’s statue or relax on one of the benches with a good book. The imposing private house overlooking this public garden belongs to the Sultan of Brunei.

Address: St John’s Lodge Gardens, London NW1 4NR

6. Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross

Although Kings Cross is hardly a hidden gem, being one of London’s busiest train stations, you might not all be aware of Platform 9¾. The designers of the revamped central London station must be Harry Potter fans.

It’s easy to find next to platforms 9 an 10 and by the queue of muggles waiting to have their photo taken. There’s also a souvenir shop where you can stock up on wizard supplies.

Address: Platform 9¾, Pancras Rd, Kings Cross, London N1 9AP

7. Sir John Soane’s Museum

One of the best hidden gems in London is the former home of Sir John Soane in Lincoln’s Inn Fields. A talented architect, he designed many well known buildings such as the Bank of England and Dulwich Picture Gallery.

He bought and redesigned 3 adjacent Georgian townhouses, establishing the museum during his own lifetime. It is preserved much as he left it, with a myriad of curios from his travels as well as architectural drawings.

Address: Sir John Soane’s Museum, 13 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, Holborn, London WC2A 3BP

8. Inns of Court and Temple Church

This area of London is a whole city within a city, centred around the Royal Courts of Justice. It’s the workplace of London barristers, yet the pretty gardens are open to the public at lunchtimes from Monday to Friday.

Temple Church dates from the 12th century and is famous as being a church of the Knights Templar. It is one of only five surviving round churches in England and features in Dan Brown’s novel, the Da Vinci Code.

Address:  Temple, London EC4Y 7BB

9. Postman’s Park

From the outside, this park located close to St Paul’s Cathedral looks like any other green space. However, approach a little closer and you’ll spot something rather unique…a memorial to brave individuals who lost their lives whilst trying to save others.

One of the best London hidden treasures, the Memorial to Heroic Self Sacrifice was designed by George Frederic Watts in 1900 so that these courageous deeds would not be forgotten. The park features in the 2004 film, Closer, with Julia Roberts, Natalie Portman, Jude Law and Clive Owen.

Address: King Edward Street, London EC1A 7BT

10. St Dunstan in the East

There are some interesting hidden gems of London in the bustling city centre. This church originally dates from 1100 but was damaged in the Great Fire of London in 1666 and heavily bombed during the Blitz.

Saint Dunstan was the patron saint of English goldsmiths and silversmiths. The church tower and steeple built by Sir Christopher Wren in 1695 survived intact.

The window frames also survived and make an atmospheric backdrop. It’s a popular place with City workers and a great secret London spot for a picnic.

Address:  St Dunstan’s Hill, London EC3R 5DD

11. Dennis Severs’ House

Imagine stepping back in time to how we lived centuries ago – that’s the experience that you get at Dennis Severs’ House. Located on Folgate Street in Spitalfields , it recreates the life of a fictional Huguenot silk-weaver and their family.

Created by Dennis Severs, who lived here from 1979 to 1999, this Georgian townhouse features several rooms modelled on 18th and 19th century styles.

Mobile phones and photos are not allowed, and if you visit in the evening, it is lit by candlelight. Quite a welcome change in some ways! This is a popular activity for couples in London as it’s so atmospheric.

Address: 18 Folgate Street, Spitalfields, London E1 6BX

12. Museum of the Home

One of East London’s most interesting visitor attractions is the Museum of the Home, formerly the Geffrye Museum. It focuses on the history of the home from 1600 to the present day.

Set in picturesque 18th century almshouses, the museum was extended in 1998 to include a pleasant cafe and additional exhibition space. There’s a charming courtyard at the front, and a lovely series of period gardens to the rear.

Address: Geffrye Museum of the Home, 136 Kingsland Rd, London E2 8EA

13. Wilton’s Music Hall

Did you know that the oldest surviving music hall in the world is located in London’s East End? Wilton’s Music Hall is being restored to its former glory by a dedicated team, and regularly hosts theatrical and musical events in its auditorium.

There are several bars which have been deliberately left in a shabby chic style that adds to the ambiance. This quirky London venue is a few minutes away from the Jack the Ripper Museum, which you might also find interesting.

Address: Wilton’s Music Hall, 1 Graces Alley, Whitechapel, London E1 8JB

14. Mercato Metropolitano

Not far from bustling Borough Market, you’ll find a spot in London that is of the tourist trail but with an equally tempting selection of food. Mercato Metropolitano is more of a food court than a market, although there’s a Sicilian supermarket attached to it.

There’s a huge array of food stalls from Venezuelan and vegan dishes to Italian favourites like pizza and risotto. The market has ample seating inside and in the 2 courtyards, and regular immersive cinema screenings.

Address: Mercato Metropolitano, 42 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6DR

15. Maltby Street

Another market in London off the beaten path is Maltby Street, open on Saturdays and Sundays. Nestled under railway arches in Bermondsey and a few minutes walk from Tower Bridge, this market is popular with Londoners for its low-key vibe.

Again, this is a place to enjoy street food rather than somewhere to pick up fruit or veg.

Having said that, there are some great food producers and craft brewers in the area like Southwark Brewing Co will quench your thirst. Meanwhile, Lassco is the perfect place to pick up vintage furniture or to relax in the cool cafe.

Address: Maltby Street Market, 42 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6DR

16. Barbican Conservatory

The Barbican Conservatory is a London hidden gem. It’s located in the heart of the Barbican Estate, and it’s home to beautiful gardens and a range of different plant species.

The conservatory is open to the public several days of the week from 12 noon. Tickets are free but must currently be booked in advance.

This is a great place to visit if you’re looking for some peace and quiet. Barbican Conservatory is also a great place to go if you’re interested in plants and gardening.

There’s a wide variety of different plant species on display, and the conservatory is a great place to learn about horticulture. If you’re looking for something to do in London on a rainy day, Barbican Conservatory is definitely worth checking out.

Address: Silk St, London EC2Y 8DS

17. Little Venice

This tranquil canal network near Primrose Hill is one of the best places to rest and relax in London . Located at the junction of the Regent’s Canal, the Grand Union Canal and Paddington Basin entrance, it’s home to a variety of independent shops, restaurants and pubs.

You can take a canal ride or enjoy a cup of tea at the Waterside Cafe floating barge.

18. Leadenhall Market

If you’re looking for a unique and atmospheric place to shop in London, Leadenhall Market is definitely worth a visit. This beautiful Victorian-era market is one of the oldest and most architecturally significant markets in the city.

If this covered market looks familiar to you, that’s because several scenes from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone were shot here. Harry and Hagrid walked through the market towards Diagon Alley and the Leaky Cauldron pub.

One of the best kept secrets in the financial district, this is a great place to wander around and explore. There are many restaurants, clothing stores and gift shops.

The market is open 24/7 to walk through, although shops and restaurant opening times vary. Admission is free.

Address: Gracechurch St, London EC3V 1LT

19. Painted Hall

Looking for an interesting and unique attraction to visit in London? Look no further than the Painted Hall. This hidden gem is located in Greenwich and is well worth a visit.

The hall was originally built as the Royal Naval College in Greenwich, and is now home to the Old Royal Naval College Trust. This iconic building was built in the early 18th century and decorated with beautiful murals by Sir James Thornhill, which depict royalty and mythological scenes.

This is one of the most impressive Baroque interiors in Britain. The Painted Hall is open to the public daily from 10am to 5pm.

Address: King William Walk, London SE10 9NN

20. The Queen’s House, Greenwich

Visiting the Queen’s House in Greenwich is a must for those seeking to uncover London’s hidden gems. Set against the backdrop of the Thames, this immaculately-designed house, constructed in the 17th century, exudes sophistication and elegance.

One of its most notable features is the Tulip Stairs, which spirals gracefully upward and is widely regarded as Britain’s first self-supporting spiral staircase. As you ascend this architectural wonder, you’ll be struck by the sense of grandeur and marvel at the meticulous craftsmanship that went into creating such a masterpiece.

Without a doubt, the Queen’s House is a treasure trove of wonders that will leave any visitor spellbound.

21. Eltham Palace

Eltham Palace is a historic house located in the London Borough of Greenwich. The original medieval hall at Eltham dates back to the 14th century and was visited by English monarchs such as Edward IV and Henry VIII.

The current palace was built in the 1930s on the site of the old palace. This stunning London attraction is considered to be one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in the UK.

Eltham Palace is owned by English Heritage and is open to the public as a heritage site and museum. Visitors can tour the state rooms, gardens, and see the preserved medieval great hall.

22. London Silver Vaults

The London Silver Vaults, also known as the Chancery Lane Silver Vaults, are an underground complex of secure rooms and vaults. They were originally constructed in the late 19th century to serve as a secure storage facility for London’s silver trade.

One of the hidden gems of London, the vaults are home to numerous independent silver dealers, retailers, and collectors. Collectively, they house millions of ounces of silver in the form of tableware, jewelry, antiques, and bullion.

While the vaults themselves are not open to the general public, the public showrooms of the silver dealers are free to visit during business hours to view and purchase silver items.

23. The Old Curiosity Shop

The Old Curiosity Shop is a well-preserved piece of London’s history, the setting of the novel of the same name by Charles Dickens. One of the best secret spots in London, it’s tucked away behind Lincoln’s Inn Fields at 14 Portsmouth Street.

The building dates back to the 17th century and was originally a shop that sold various curiosities and antiques. The building has a distinctive narrow, three-story facade with overhanging upper floors that is characteristic of 17th century London architecture.

Charles Dickens’ novel “The Old Curiosity Shop” was published in 1841 and tells the story of the owner of a curiosity shop and his young granddaughter, Nell. These days, this historic building is a high-end shoe shop.

Final Thoughts on the Best London Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for something a little different during your next trip to London, be sure to check out some of these lesser known places. You won’t be disappointed by London’s hidden gems!

And if you haven’t had a chance to check them out yet, be sure to add them to your list! We’ve got plenty more tips and recommendations for exploring this amazing city, so be sure to read our other London posts .

If you like places that are off the beaten track, be sure to check out our guides to the best hidden gems in Paris , Rome and Venice too.

Thanks for reading and happy travels!

Which of these is your favourite or would you like to visit most? Are there any other London hidden gems that you would add to this list?

You might also enjoy:

• Best London Cinemas
• Best Places to Propose in London
• Famous Streets of London
• Most Instagrammable London Restaurants
• Romantic Places in London

                 Like these London off the beaten track suggestions? Pin for later or share with friends .

Looking for more travel hacks and tips? From hidden gems to unique experiences, we’ve got you covered. Join us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  Pinterest  and  Twitter .

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Suze and Paul Renner

Suze and Paul are the founders of LuxuryColumnist, one of the leading luxury online magazines worldwide.

14 thoughts on “23 Best London Hidden Gems And Secret Spots”

Thanks for the tip Yaya, I take it that was at the Dean Street Townhouse?

Yes exactly!I really enjoyed it there!And I loved the little green umbrellas on the front door which gives u the right amount of heat if you need it;)

We once took a friend for a picnic in the secret garden, she lived round the corner and had never heard of it ;-). I hope you love it too

I havent heard of any of these places before. Thank you for the tips! I am especially keeping the Mercato Metropolitano and Camden Passage 🙂

I reckon you would love both of those, Claudia – great places to visit at the weekend

Delighted that you like it, Suzanne – London has so much to offer!

I guess that’s why the garden looks so authentic, as they had guidance from Kyoto. Glad you enjoyed reading it

I’m sure you’ll enjoy Mercato Metropolitano, it’s such a unique place and well off the tourist trail

Cool list! There is a couple I don’t know but I did love Kyoto garden and St Dunstan in the East 🙂

Cool list, I need to visit Kyoto Gardens. Mount St Gardens is looking nice right now. You’ll fit right in with that area. Really trendy 😉

Yes it’s a cool little area, I love the independent stores there!

It really is, I haven’t seen enough of London! Must do. X

Postmans Park is a favourite and some new ones that I need to visit Lucy x

I love a good hidden gem. As it’s Easter I’ll say “eggs-cellent”!

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Ten really, really secret things to see in London

You might think there are no more secrets in this city, but we’ve dug really deep for these hidden bits of London. Just don’t go telling everyone, okay?

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as discovering a super secret London location. It's like unearthing treasure while hunting through one of the city’s many markets , but ever so slightly better.

With that smug, insider feeling in mind, forget all the usual suspects, the major attractions and the rush of Leicester Square . It’s time to switch up your London experience. Avoid the foot ache of tourist congestion and step onto pavements less travelled with our totally confidential guide to the best secret places in London.

Just remember, the best secrets stay secrets, so if someone asks where you’re off to, make like No Doubt and don’t speak.

RECOMMENDED: The best of secret London

An email you’ll actually love

1.  An artist's in-house treasure trove

• East Dulwich

Down a perfectly normal-looking street in East  Dulwich  you'll find a perfectly not-normal-looking abode known as the House of Dreams. Taking the concept of one man's trash being another man's treasure and running with it, artist Stephen Wright is in the process of covering every available surface of his home in his kitschy mosaics. Whether it's abandoned dolls or pen lids, everything here comes together in a magical hideaway that's only open to the public a few days each year.  Did you know?  One display includes lines from Wright's diary, including one devastating passage  written  in the hours after his partner, Donald Jones, passed away.

2.  A house stuck in 1900

Although from the outside 18 Stafford Terrace looks like every other house in this otherwise unremarkable west London street, stepping through the door is like passing through a wormhole into the late Victorian era. The inside of this townhouse has been left largely unchanged since cartoonist Edward Linley Sambourne lived there until his death in 1910. Remarkably, generations which followed havenít modernised or disposed of the family's papers, leaving the home a freeze-frame of middle-class aestheticism in the middle of Kensington. Did you know?  You can read the diaries kept by Ed and his wife Marion too. Spoiler alert: everyone gets ill. A lot.

3.  A floral oasis on the bright side of the tracks

• Garden centres

'If Instagram was a garden centre, it would be Battersea Flower Station'. Such is the intriguing claim made in the promotional video for this delightfully cute corridor of lush flora and fauna. Is it filled with adorable kittens and Cara Delevingne partying with her hot mates? Well, no. But it's as pretty as a picture. Occupying a narrow space next to some railway tracks, it's bursting on either side with all kinds of plant life and is a charming little spot for an afternoon amble - even if you have no garden to furnish, and are just after something to Instagram... Did you know?  BFS is firmly rooted in the community and has a little shop that sells locally made products, from cards and candles to bread and jam.

4.  The cheapest decent curry in central London

• Restaurants

Fitzroy Square is home to that most elusive of prizes in London: a good hot meal for less than a fiver. Although it seems wrong to waltz into the Indian YMCA when you're not staying there, rest assured: anyone is allowed to eat in its no-frills canteen. So take a seat at one of the dining hall tables, along with the student and businessman regulars. There are usually a couple of curries to choose from, supplemented with rice, chapati and dal. That should keep you going until dinnertime, no problem. Did you know?  Gandhi spoke at the Indian YMCA during his visit to London in 1931 - though it was based in Gower Street back then, so he would have missed out on the current place's £2 veggie curry.

5.  A chance to leaf through Turner's sketchbooks

Galleries tend to squirrel away works that aren't on display, but at the Tate Britain Prints and Drawings Room you can get up close and personal with its vast archive. That means you can flick through Turner's sketchbooks and preparatory watercolours. You have to make an appointment and know what you want to see, but that little bit of homework is well worth it for a chance to hold a piece of unseen art history. Did you know?  While there's plenty to see here, there could have been more - when the Tate was flooded in 1928, many works were damaged or lost forever.

6.  A groovy bingo hall

• Things to do
• Event spaces
• Elephant & Castle

Not a secret: there's a bingo hall at the top of the Elephant & Castle Shopping Centre. Massive secret: it offers a bingo experience like no other, in such gloriously kitsch and retro surroundings that you half-expect John Waters to be calling the numbers. The canteen serves up mammoth portions of super-cheap curried goat. The bar does budget bottles of Dragon Stout and Red Label Aperitif. The air rings with victorious bingo cries of 'Yo!'. And it all takes place amid great swathes of psychedelic carpet, gleaming Formica tables and threadbare fold-down seating. Oh, and you can apparently win money too. Did you know?  Opposite the bingo hall are some of the cheapest claw machines around, so you can try and win a giant minion without feeling guilty about it. Besides, it's for your baby cousin anyway, right?

7.  A hidden stash of rare rugs

Amid the well-heeled shoppers and backpack-toting tourists, there's a room that only a few make it to on the fourth floor of Liberty that's quite unlike anything else in central London. The rug room is draped in handmade Oriental and Persian rugs that you half-expect to fly off with you on a quest for an enchanted lamp. You might be just off Regent Street, but it feels like a souk in Marrakesh. Did you know?  The world's most expensive rug is the Persian Clark Sickle-Leaf Carpet, which sold for $33,765,000(around £22.2m) at auction in 2013. At £200,000, Liberty's priciest floor-filler is a snip by comparison.

8.  A true taste of the Far East in the West End

At first glance, there seems little reason to venture down Dansey Place, a little back lane in Chinatown mainly filled with the rubbish bins of surrounding restaurants. But look past these and you'll find a number of shops that could be straight out of Beijing. Near the Macclesfield Street end, boxes of Chinese veg reveal a couple who sell groceries out of their front room. Halfway down is an excellent fishmonger with tanks of enormous lobsters and bundles of razor clams. And at the Wardour Street end, there's Lo's noodle factory, where you pay just £1 for a huge bag of the freshest ho fun or  cheung  fun, straight from the tiny factory where it's made. Did you know?  London's Chinatown wasn't always where it is today. In the eighteenth  century  Chinese sailors settled in Limehouse, and the city's community remained in the area until after the Second World War.

9.  A historic woodland in the south

• Parks and gardens

Even at the height of summer, when every scrap of green space in the city seems to have been claimed by a sun-worshipping Londoner, you can still find a quiet spot in historic Sydenham Hill Wood. The last remaining part of the ancient Great North Wood - which once covered all of south London from Deptford to Selhurst - this nine-hectare patch of dense woodland, crisscrossed with pathways, is one of the capital's most atmospheric outdoor areas. To add to the magic, if you walk far enough into the woods, you'll come across the curious faux-ruins of a Victorian folly.  Did you know?  A disused railway tunnel among the trees is apparently home to roosting bats. Don't let that put you off visiting, though.

10.  Eden down an alleyway

• London Bridge

Maybe you don't spend a lot of time skulking around the capital's back alleys. Fret not: in general, you're not missing out on much. But Gibbon's Rent is a notable exception. Tucked away in Southwark, this once-dingy  cut through  between two blocks of flats has been transformed into a leafy oasis, with potted plants brought in by local residents and workers alike. It's the perfect spot to escape your desk for a sandwich or some chill time.  Book lovers  should also note that it's home to a tiny  take-one -leave-one library in a wardrobe.  Did you know?  Unusually for primates, gibbons tend to be monogamous. How's about that?

GYG London Widget

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Hidden London – 10 of the city's lesser known delights

Dec 12, 2018 • 4 min read

One of London's many hidden and unusual sights, Brixton Windmill © Davide Cioffi / Getty Images

London has plenty in the way of must-see sights and instantly recognisable landmarks, but hidden down the side streets and tucked away in urban backwaters is a scattered collection of equally fascinating, lesser-known highlights. Delve beyond the London of the postcards and discover an excitingly unfamiliar side to this great city.

St Etheldreda’s Church

Hidden in plain sight down a gated road of neat terraced houses, St Etheldreda’s Church is as beautiful as it is incongruous. It dates back to the mid-13 th Century and was the seat of the Bishops of Ely for its first 200 years. Nowadays it’s open every day and free to visit, and it’s usually a place of tranquillity, due to most tourists being oblivious to its presence. The stained glass east window is sublime.

Ye Olde Mitre

For a post-church pint, seek out Ye Olde Mitre , a minute's walk from St Etheldreda's. Located at the confluence of two alleyways so narrow you almost need to walk down them sideways, this  is one of London’s oldest pubs, dating to 1546 (though remodelled in the 18th century). Even if you have been before, it still feels like a new discovery every time you visit. It’s especially great in colder months, with its open fire, beamed ceilings and maze of cosy little rooms. A proper London pub.

Chelsea Physic Garden

London’s oldest botanical garden (established in 1673) is a secret delight, with its four acres enclosed by high brick walls. Originally named Apothecaries Garden and now known as Chelsea Physic Garden , it’s a captivating spot, full of rare trees and pharmaceutical plants used in contemporary Western medicine.

Barbican Conservatory

Many have heard about the Barbican Estate, the enormous confusing complex of homes and public spaces in the City of London, built in the Brutalist style. But few are aware of its biggest secret: a gargantuan tropical oasis in the form of a steamy conservatory , where over 2000 species of plants thrive. It’s a truly spectacular environment, also home to terrapins, fish and birds. 

18 Stafford Terrace

There’s practically nothing from the outside to suggest this terraced house on a quiet residential street is any different from its neighbours. But step inside and you’ll find  18 Stafford Terrace is actually stuck in a time warp – an untouched Victorian family home, complete with Turkish rugs and William Morris wallpaper. It was the residence of illustrator Edward Linley Sambourne, and after his death in 1910 passed through the hands of various family members, who didn’t change anything and ultimately opened it to the public.

Dennis Severs’ House

Dennis Severs’ House is an incredible attraction, part museum, part theatre. It’s the brainchild of its namesake, an American artist who lived here (1979-99) and aimed to produce ‘still-life drama’ throughout the house’s ten rooms. Imagining the occupants to be a family of Huguenot silk weavers, he fashioned each room to provide glimpses of domestic life in Spitalfields from the early 18 th to early 20 th century. Candle-lit evening openings are particularly atmospheric.

Phoenix Garden

Possibly the unlikeliest pocket of wilderness anywhere in the world, Phoenix Garden sits smack bang in the heart of London’s glittering West End, and somehow manages to be secret and secluded at the same time. Its grassy patches, shrubbery, ponds and benches provide a sanctuary for wildlife and people alike. Look out for the frogs – you won’t find them anywhere else in this part of London. Amazing.

St Dunstan-in-the-East

Another urban garden, this time mixed with architectural remains,  St Dunstan-in-the-East is a beautiful, tranquil, and little-known green space in the heart of the City. It’s framed by the ruins of St Dunstan Church, which was destroyed by the Great Fire of 1666, and then again during the Blitz, and surrounded by the steel and glass architecture of modernity.

St Bartholomew-the-Great

The arched gatehouse on the approach to St Bartholomew-the-Great  is an extremely rare survivor of Tudor architecture in London, almost all of which was destroyed by the Great Fire of 1666. Once you’ve walked through the arch and entered the church itself, you're in a beautiful space that's an equally rare example of Norman architecture, one of very few such buildings still standing in the city. Keep an eye out for the tomb (and also, allegedly, the ghost) of the church's 12th-century founder, Rahere.

Brixton Windmill

A glorious, and gloriously unexpected, sight, the superbly restored Brixton Windmill is an eye-catching, 200-year-old reminder that London grew from a mosaic of once pastoral villages. You can visit on selected days between April and October on free tours, and the location is also used for various events, including a beer festival in May.

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London’s Most Secret Alleys, Old Streets & Hidden Passageways

By: Author The Working Line and

Posted on Published: November 25, 2023  - Last updated: December 20, 2023

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London’s history is rich; from medieval sites to maritime neighborhoods, there’s so much to explore if you’re a hidden gem lover.

In addition to many artistic hidden gems , there are plenty of secret alleys in London, magical courtyards and old streets very much worth a visit to learn more about the city’s past.

I’ve gathered here all the secret passageways, old and beautiful streets I’ve come to know over the years I’ve spent living in London.

From underground streets to hidden alleyways, you’ll find here many unusual places to add to your bucket list – I’m warning you, if you love beautiful architecture, you’re exactly where you need to be!

London’s Most Secret Alleys, Old Streets & Hidden Passageways

In this guide, I won’t focus on a specific part of London specifically – from East London to the incredibly impactful City of London, secret alleys and passageways are to be found all around town.

While Roman tunnels and underground streets are being discovered quite regularly, due to the rich Roman history in London, there are few underground alleyways open to the public.

However, from Georgian courtyards to medieval streets, you’ll discover so much today that it (almost) doesn’t matter if we can’t visit the underground London.

Whether you’re a local or visiting London for the first time , I can promise you one thing – you’ll discover many new places today!

Most Secret Passageways in London: St John’s Lane, Clerkenwell

Let’s start with St John’s Lane, located in the Clerkenwell neighborhood, where a strong Italian population has settled over the years.

In addition its delicious Italian bakeries and cafes, Clerkenwell is also famous for St John’s Gate, one of the best preserved medieval sites in London .

St John’s Gate is a historic building that once served as the entrance to the Priory of the Knights of St John, and boasts the same historic vibe as Temple Church and Inner Temple Gardens.

Its proximity to High Holborn and Chancery Lane makes it one of the most unusual places to visit in London if you don’t want to get too far from Covent Garden and Tottenham Court Road.

Caffè Vergnano, one of my favorite Italian cafes in London , and one of the oldest, is located really close and makes for the perfect spot to have breakfast and coffee before heading to Covent Garden’s hidden gems .

Closeby, too, another one of the most secret alleys in London , and only really known by locals: the incredible Sicilian Avenue, with its Italian gate.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in Oxford Street

Secret Passageways and Alleyways in London: Camden Passage, Islington

One of the most secret streets in London, Camden Passage is located in Islington, close to Angel Tube station.

The pedestrian passage is filled with antique shops, Italian and French food shops such as Le Coq Épicier, and other really cute coffee shops and bakeries.

Two food spots to try at Camden Passage are Buns from Home, which serves some of the best cinnamon buns in London , and Redemption Roasters.

Redemption Roasters isn’t only one of the best study cafes in North London , far from it.

The striking white basement, filled with sculptures and statues, makes Redemption Roasters one of the most instagrammable cafes in London – and one of the most secret.

With its rich history, its market and its many restaurants, Camden Passage is a perfect place to discover London off the beaten path.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in North London

Secret Passageways in London: Falkland Place, Kentish Town

Falkland Place, a couple of minutes from Kentish Town Tube station, is another one of my favorite secret alleys in London, with beautiful architecture and colorful houses.

You’ll find quite a few colorful streets in Camden and Kentish Town, including Falkland Road and Leverton Street just off Falkland Place, which make North London even more interesting to visit.

I love finding colorful places in London , and Falkland Place is another one of those magical passageways you have to visit at some point.

Not too far, have lunch at Pho Ta for incredible dry beef salad and authentic pho soup – you won’t regret it as it’s one of the most delicious and secret restaurants in North London.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in Brick Lane

Hidden Alleyways in London: Tokenhouse Yard, City of London

Let’s make our way to the City of London next, and pop by Tokenhouse Yard, a tiny courtyard you would definitely miss if you weren’t looking for it.

There are many hidden gems in the City of London, namely Tokenhouse Yard, but also the church ruins of St Dunstan in the East.

Tokenhouse Yard isn’t only what is pictured above, but also one of London’s most secret alleys – walk your way around the area and you’ll find a soothing courtyard with a few benches to rest for a bit.

The City of London is also where you’ll find a few Roman places and Roman-inspired statues, like the incredibly beautiful Tivoli Corner.

Tivoli Corner and Tokenhouse Yard are located close to one another, and for history and architecture lovers, they’re two secret places you’ll love to visit.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in West London

Magical Streets in London: Lancaster Road, Notting Hill

Now, I know we’re talking about hidden passageways and alleys, and Lancaster Road is a more famous type of street.

However, if you’re looking for colorful streets in Notting Hill , Lancaster Road promises and delivers.

A few streets off Lancaster Road are better hidden and range from other colorful streets to beautiful mews, such as St Lukes Mews with its blue and pink houses.

Get a filling breakfast in one of Notting Hill’s cafes, like the beautiful Farm Girl Cafe, or make your way to one of my favorite French bakeries in London , Maison Puget, and walk around the area to discover new hidden gems.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in South London

Secret Alleys in London: Narrow Street, Limehouse

Limehouse is one of the prettiest neighborhoods in East London , and has a rich maritime history.

I’ve written in my last few London travel guides that I feel ever more closer to London’s maritime neighborhoods, and if you’re the same, pay a visit to Limehouse.

Narrow Street is lined with historic warehouses, and all around, you’ll find restaurants, pubs and cafes to recharge.

At one end of Narrow Street, you’ll find the Limehouse Basin, one of my favorite places in London, a historic dock area where the sun sets beautifully.

Read: The Cutest Bakeries in London

Secret Alleys in London: Throgmorton Street, City of London

Back to the City of London, let’s discover another one of the prettiest secret alleys: Throgmorton Street.

Very calm, very soothing, Throgmorton Street houses offices, but it wasn’t always the case – its history dates back several centuries.

One of the most notable buildings there is Drapers’ Hall , which entrance is adorned with two huge statues pictured above and is today a venue for hire whose interior looks very much like Roman villas.

The Merchant Taylors’ Hall is another one of the most notable buildings on Throgmorton Street, headquarters of the Worshipful Company of Merchant Taylors.

Keep walking around, maybe towards Liverpool Street and Bishopsgate to find the beautiful Leadenhall Market, one of the prettiest shopping arcades in London.

You can also make your way to Tokenhouse Yard, mentioned earlier in this guide.

Or, why not visit some of London Bridge’s hidden gems , such as the Southwark Cathedral, located on the other side of London Bridge?

Read: The Best Things to Do in Canary Wharf

Secret Alleys in London: Hartshorn Alley, EC3I

You’ll find very little information about Hartshorn Alley, and with good reason – if you’re looking for really secret alleys and passageways in London , this is indeed one of the most secret.

It’s not difficult to access Hartshorn Alley, though, since it’s located between Fenchurch Street and Leadenhall Street, in the City of London.

Is there really anything to do at Hartshorn Alley? Well, if you include admiring the stonework of the walls, yes.

Otherwise, there are many other hidden gems to discover nearby, starting with the Art in the City installations nearby.

Or, since you’re so close to Leadenhall Market, why not try the amazing French pastries at Aux Merveilleux de Fred ?

Read: The Best Things to Do in London When It Rains

Secret Alleys in London: Conduit Mews, Paddington

One of the poshest areas in London , Paddington is filled with beautiful streets and quaint coffee shops.

I used to work near Conduit Mews, another one of the rainbow places in London that will make you want to take out your camera and snap a few shots.

Conduit Mews is a residential area, and like all mews in London, are renowned for their historic beauty stemming from converted stables and carriage houses.

You’re quite close to Hyde Park when visiting Conduit Mews, so you can either choose to find a few more hidden gems in Paddington, or make your way to this gorgeous park.

While Hyde Park is one of the most famous parks in London, you’ll find a few secret gardens inside, including the Rose Garden, at its prettiest during the spring.

Read: Where to Have Lunch in London With £5

Secret Alleys in London: Hare Court

When you’re visiting Temple Church off Fleet Street, make your way to Inner Temple Gardens and exit on the other side.

You’ll see Hare Court there, in an area known to be home to the Inns of Court, professional associations for barristers.

Secret courtyards are located all around Hare Court, with columns, fountains, benches, and vibrant greenery that make it a great spot to visit to have a romantic date .

Since Temple Church in itself is a medieval site , a visit in the area is necessary to learn more about the Knights Templar.

When you’re done, keep walking down Fleet Street and The Strand, and you’ll find Somerset House, with yet another type of striking palace architecture and a really posh atmosphere.

Read: The Prettiest Christmas Shop Windows in London

Secret Streets in London: Denbigh Terrace, Notting Hill

Denbigh Terrace, located just off Portobello Road, might not be a secret street, but when you don’t expect to see a completely colorful street when coming from Notting Hill Gate, it’s a really nice sight to enjoy.

The residential street is probably one of the most famous photo spots in London , crowded with influencers as soon as the sun comes out.

The succession of pink, yellow, grey and blue houses makes it a beautiful stop to have on your bucket list when on your way to all the quaint Portobello Road shops.

You’ll find a hidden food gem all the way down Portobello Road – walk for about 10/15 minutes, and you’ll find Lisboa Patisserie, an authentic Portuguese bakery with incredible pastel de nata and bolo de arroz.

Read: The Best Shopping Centers in London

Secret Alleys in London: Ely Court

Located close to Fleet St and Holborn, Ely Court is one of the smallest secret alleys in London, and one of its highlights is the Ye Old Mitre pub.

I love finding beautiful pubs in London, from the Shipwrights Arms in London Bridge to the Churchill Arms in Kensington, but Ye Old Mitre is yet on another level, since it was built in 1546.

Associated with the Bishop of Ely, Ely Court is quaint, calm, and a very unusual place to visit on a romantic date or a solo trip .

Read: The Best Things to Do in Soho

Secret Alleys in London: Shad Thames, Southbank

Shad Thames is very much reminiscing of London’s maritime past, and is in my opinion one of the prettiest historic streets in London.

You’ll find many old streets around London Bridge, Bermondsey and Southwark that can definitely take you an entire day to visit.

However, start with Shad Thames, one of the secret alleys you can come across when walking to your right when facing Tower Bridge from Southbank.

Historic warehouses are still well and dandy at Shad Thames, providing the area with a very peculiar atmosphere to be enjoyed with a cup of hot chocolate during cold days.

Read: Where to See Autumn Colors in London

Beautiful Underground Streets in London: Little Compton Street

One of Soho’s hidden gems , Little Compton Street is one of the only underground streets that can be admired in Central London – however, you can only enjoy it from above.

Indeed, you’ll have to kneel down and peep through a metal grille in the middle of Charing Cross Road to be able to catch a glimpse of Little Compton Street.

The Soho neighborhood is filled with things to do, whether you’re on a budget or not.

Maybe start with breakfast in Soho at Elan Cafe or Cafe de Nata, then make your way to the vibrant Chinatown streets.

Have lunch in Chinatown or grab a snack at Chinese Tapas House or Chinatown Bakery , and discover other secret alleys around Leicester Square.

There’s so much to do in Central London – but start with Little Compton Street, and maybe a visit to TK Maxx on Charing Cross Road for discounted candles, makeup and designer clothes!

Read: The Best Colorful Lattes in London

Secret Passageways and Alleyways in London: Reece Mews & Kendrick Mews

Now, in terms of secret alleys and courtyards, I don’t think we can top Reece Mews and Kendrick Mews, in South Kensington.

These are two of London’s prettiest mews , and can be accessed quite easily from South Kensington station – walk down Old Brompton Rd, and they’re located somewhere on the right.

The beautiful ski mural is a permanent artwork that has been adorning the entrance of the mews for years now, and always well-preserved.

You’ll find lots of hidden gems in South Kensington, nearby – from Macellaio, a favorite of mine for delicious Italian food, to Hummingbird Bakery and their incredible cupcakes.

Dopamineland, a very colorful immersive experience that promises to make you happier, at least for a bit, is also located on Old Brompton Road, and an experience I personally enjoyed very much.

Read: The Best Harry Potter Things to Do in London

Secret Passageways and Alleyways in London: Leake Street, Waterloo

Leake Street Tunnel would almost make you feel you’re in a secret city under London, when in reality, you’re in one of the only rainbow places in town.

Filled with graffiti and street art that changes by the day, really, Leake Street Tunnel is a place where street artists come to practice their skills and leave their mark on the London cityscape.

You know what, many tourists have no idea there are many hidden gems in Waterloo and nearby neighborhoods like Bermondsey.

Yet, it’s another one of the maritime and industrial neighborhoods no one should miss.

Lower Marsh, just outside of Leake Street Tunnel, is for instance one of the most secret villages in London, lined with tiny coffee shops and authentic restaurants and bakeries.

In addition, if you’re ever looking for places reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland in London , Labyrinth Waterloo is one of the only places that offer an immersive Alice in Wonderland experience.

Read: The Best Harry Potter Filming Locations in London

Secret Alleys in London: Artillery Passage, Spitalfields

Now, for another one of East London’s secret alleys, we’ll make our way to Spitalfieds and Artillery Passage.

Located really close to Old Spitalfields Market and Eataly, a top Italian food shop, Artillery Passage showcases well-preserved Victorian and Georgian buildings.

The narrow passageway offers plenty of cafes, restaurants and pubs, but it’s really for the vibe that I love popping by.

By the way, for whoever loves Roman and medieval history, visit Charnel House on Bishops Square, and you’ll be able to see medieval ruins.

After that, just know that Old Spitalfields Market and streets nearby are filled with amazing independent clothing brands and makeup shops , good to know if you’re into British brands!

Read: Why Are There Colorful Streets in London

Most Secret Passageways in London: Cecil Court, Covent Garden

Cecil Court hosts some of the prettiest bookshops in London , including Alice Through the Looking Glass, an all-Alice in Wonderland bookshop.

The historic street, despite its closeness to Covent Garden, Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square , still retains a secret atmosphere, and is said to be a real-life Diagon Alley.

Cecil Court is known for its well-preserved Georgian architecture, and any and all bookworms should have it on their bucket list.

Other hidden alleys are located close to Cecil Court, including Goodwin’s Court – keep reading to know more about this tiny courtyard below!

Read: The Best Things to Do in London Bridge

Hidden Alleyways in London: Goodwin’s Court, Covent Garden

Just like Cecil Court, Goodwin’s Court also offers beautiful insight on Georgian London with its preserved Georgian architecture.

Gas lamps and dark-brick buildings add to Covent Garden’s charm, and you’ll find there a couple of antique shops.

It’s really one of those really picturesque, secret alleys you wouldn’t think of finding elbowing Covent Garden’s shops , and yet, Goodwin’s Court is a must-visit if architecture is your jam.

Read: The Prettiest Maximalist Restaurants in London

Beautiful Underground Streets in London: Pennington Street Vaults

Located near St Katharine Docks, in the Wapping area, Pennington Street Vaults is a Grade II-listed building dating back to the 19th century.

Wapping used to be a docklands area, as many beautiful neighborhoods surrounding the Thames River, and definitely a place to visit to feel brought back centuries.

Pennington Street Vaults, a former warehouse, are characterized by their arches, which have since been repurposed to fit today’s world better – but they still make for a maritime hidden gem whose history shouldn’t be forgotten.

Read: The Most Aesthetic Restaurants in London With Statues

Secret Alleys in London: Fleet Street to Temple Church

When you walk from St Paul’s Cathedral to The Strand, keep on the left side of Fleet Street, and keep your eyes open so you don’t miss another one of my favorite secret alleys in London, which leads to Temple Church.

Temple Church is one of the oldest and most secret churches in London , and with its history dating back to the 12th century and its peculiar round shape, is a quaint building to visit.

I can’t describe how rich in history Fleet Street is, and there are many hidden gems in Fleet Street that range from secret statues to hidden passageways off the main road.

However, start with Temple Church, and make sure you visit the Inner Temple Gardens as well, a very secret garden surrounded with offices and residential buildings.

Read: The Cutest Pink Places in London

Most Secret Alleys in London: New Row, City of London

Close to Covent Garden, New Row is another one of these historic streets that call for our attention, us, architecture lovers.

Cafes and restaurants, as well as really old pubs are all located on New Row, which gives off a village vibe as soon as you enter it.

You’ll also find plenty of shops there too, but if there’s one thing you have to look out for, it’s the White Swan, a Grade II-listed pub first established somewhere between the 17th and 18th centuries.

Read: Chalcot Square Primrose Hill, London’s Most Colorful Place

Secret Passageways and Alleyways in London: Salters Hall Court to St Swithin’s Church Garden

Cannon Street has always felt like a very local area; the whole Cannon Street and Fenchurch Street areas are mostly used for offices and visited by commuters who work in London.

Many hidden gems in Cannon Street and Fenchurch Street are way too underrated, and that’s the case of Salters Hall Court, which leads to one of the smallest gardens in London, St Swithin’s Church Garden.

If I may, while Salters Hall Court is indeed one of the city’s secret alleys, there’s not much to see here except the church garden .

St Swithin’s Church, in itself, used to be a historic church where you can now see the tiny garden.

Like St Dunstan in the East and many other buildings in the City of London, St Swithin’s Church was first damaged during the Great Fire of London in 1666, rebuilt, and finally destroyed after the WWII Blitz damaged it again.

Read: The Best Places to Write in London

Secret Passageways and Alleyways in London: Canon Alley, St Paul’s

A few seconds away from Paternoster Square, a very magical courtyard I love sitting at when I’m around St Paul’s Cathedral, you have yet another one of our secret alleys, Canon Alley.

We’re here really close to the Reflection Garden, the rooftop at One New Change that offers free views of London , and Watling Street.

Canon Alley is a very small street with a straight view on St Paul’s Cathedral, making it a perfect photo spot for whoever is looking for new angles of London.

Not much to do at Canon Alley except taking pictures, really. However, you’ll find many other hidden gems near St Paul’s worth a visit.

That includes Greyfriars Christ Church, which will take you a few minutes to access but is totally worth it if you’re interested in both church ruins and secret gardens .

That also includes Host Cafe in St Mary Aldermary , a secret cafe nestled inside an incredible church.

Read: The Best Non Touristy Things to Do in London

Hidden Alleyways in London: Fournier Street, East London

In the Spitalfields neighborhood, in East London, find Fournier Street and you’ll find yourself bathed in history.

That’s where you’ll find beautiful Georgian architecture, but also the Dennis Severs’ House, one of the most unusual museums in London.

London is dotted with historic houses and stately homes worth a visit, and the inside of the Dennis Severs’ House makes it worth it to travel to East London.

Plus, a few minutes away, you have other secret alleys and courtyards surrounding the Old Spitalfields Market, and of course, Brick Lane and its street art .

If you’re willing to walk more, make your way to Shoreditch and New Inn Yard.

Well, for any street art lover, you’ll find there lots of murals and colorful graffiti.

But that’s not all: anyone looking for places reminding us of William Shakespeare in London, New Inn Yard has a Romeo & Juliet mural as well as a statue of Shakespeare looking like the one in the Southwark Cathedral churchyard.

But while we’re at Fournier Street, admire the 18th century houses, their architecture, and all the hidden alleyways surrounding the street.

Read: The Best Halal Restaurants in East London

Old Secret Streets in London: Newburgh Street, Central London

When you visit Soho, don’t only stop at the shops on Carnaby Street.

Yes, I know they’re amazing, but if you just walk a couple of minutes away from the main road, you’ll find other really hidden streets, such as Newburgh Street.

Home to independent boutiques, from clothes to shoes and jewelry, Newburgh Street is one of the cutest cobbled streets in London.

Floral cafes , pubs, and more secret restaurants are located there, making it another place to have on your bucket list.

Plus, since you’re already in Central London, if you really want to go shopping, you’ll find really unique, British shops nearby on Oxford Street, Soho and Piccadilly.

Read: The Most Unique Shops in London

Secret Passageways in London: Holly Bush Steps

Established in 1643, the Holly Bush in Hampstead is one of the prettiest pubs in London, and one to visit, if only to try fish and chips for the first time.

Built near the Holly Bush steps, a flight of stairs from the same era, the pub is definitely something to see, but again, you’ll find all around many hidden alleyways – Hampstead is known for them, being one of London’s quaintest villages .

Even if you don’t want to have a bite at the pub, make sure you visit the Hampstead neighborhood at some point.

You have plenty of really cute cafes in Hampstead, namely, the Les Filles cafe near the station and the boulangerie Bon Matin on Flask Walk.

If you’re looking for secret alleys, many of the streets in Hampstead will fulfill your wishes – and aforementioned Flask Walk is definitely one of them.

Read: The Best Brunch in King’s Cross

Most Secret Alleys in London: Air Street, Piccadilly

On either side of the pretty Air Street, you have Regent Street and Piccadilly, so we’re really central here.

Already in existence in 1659, Air Street is one of the most secret alleys in Central London, and its architecture is nothing if not breathtaking.

All around, you have some of the most luxurious shops in London , from high-end shoe shops to jewelry and watch shops, but take a moment to admire the beautiful architecture of this tiny street.

Look up to see the columns and arches, reminiscent of Roman London, once called Londinium.

After your visit, shops on Regent Street will provide a great shopping experience, and if I may, make sure to walk your way to pretty Mayfair.

While it’s one of the most famous areas in London, there are lots of hidden gems in Mayfair just waiting for our curious eye.

Burlington House, with the Royal Academy of Arts, is a must-visit to enjoy statues and paintings in a grand setting.

A couple of minutes away from Air Street, you’ll also find Fortnum and Mason, an amazing department store, as well as Hatchards, one of the oldest and most beautiful bookshops London has ever seen.

Burlington Arcade is another must-see, not only a grand shopping arcade but also the perfect place to see Christmas decorations in London !

Read: The Best Cafes in London Bridge

Secret Alleys in London: Bloomfield Place, Mayfair

Mayfair is undeniably one of the poshest areas in London, but what if I told you there are a few villages inside Mayfair?

Starting with Shepherd Market and its historic pubs and restaurants, and ending with Bloomfield Place, a residential area with renovated mews.

Mayfair is where you’ll find a secret, and free rooftop terrace at Brown Hart Gardens, as well as Mercato Metropolitano, a food market located inside an old church.

Bloomfield Place is one of the most secret alleys and courtyards in London, and just for the fun of it, when you’re in the area, pop by after breakfast in Mayfair!

Read: The Best Brunch in London Bridge

Secret Alleys in London: Marylebone Lane, Central London

Before making your way to Marylebone Lane, one of the prettiest streets in Central London, I would definitely recommend checking out Fitzrovia.

Fitzrovia’s hidden gems include the oh-so-colorful James Street, lined with instagrammable and pink cafes, but also St Christopher’s Place and its quaint shops.

Then, Marylebone Lane will offer stunning architecture, including pretty mews and cobblestone streets to tread while enjoying the views on boutiques and food shops.

Marylebone High Street is located really close, at the end of Marylebone Lane, and I’d also recommend walking up and down the high street to find hidden mews – there are a lot.

If you’d also like to find free, unusual museums, the Wallace Collection is situated a few minutes away from Marylebone Lane, and boasts a rich collection of artworks dated from the 15th to the 19th centuries.

Read: The Best Second Hand Bookshops in London

Secret Alleys in London: Watling Street, St Paul’s

In terms of secret alleys, you can hardly do better than Watling Street, near St Paul’s Cathedral.

It’s actually one of my favorite, and oldest streets in London, and you’ll find in Watling Street many cafes, bakeries and restaurants in which locals love to gather at the end of the workday.

Watling Street follows the route of a Roman Road, making it one of the most important streets in the City of London – yes, we’re in the City of London again!

At one end of Watling Street, you have a great view on St Paul’s Cathedral, and I’d suggest walking a bit more to find the relaxing and picturesque Reflection Garden, with its small pond and benches all around.

Read: The Best Cheap Day Trips from London

Secret Alleys in London: Rose Street, Covent Garden

Covent Garden is filled with hidden gems, from Monmouth Street to Neal’s Yard, but today, we’re going to walk together to Rose Street and Floral Street.

There’s no shortage of secret alleys in Covent Garden, that’s for sure.

But in Rose Street, you’ll find Bageriet, a Swedish bakery with incredible cinnamon buns and pastries.

The whole area still breathes 17th-century atmosphere, with cobblestone streets, small coffee shops, artisan shops and incredible restaurants.

Some of London’s cheap eats can be found around Covent Garden, and these include Old Chang Kee for Singaporean curry puffs – something you have to try when in Central London.

Again, walk around Covent Garden to find more of these secret passageways, as from Floral Street to Neal Street and St Martin’s Courtyard, you have lots to discover in the area.

Read: The Best Cheap Clothing Shops in London

Secret Alleys in London: Lovat Lane, EC3

Lastly in our guide to really secret alleys and passageways, I bring to you Lovat Lane in the City of London.

I only discovered this really old street a few months ago, when I was still living in West Hampstead, and couldn’t believe my luck.

Chances are, if you’re planning to visit St Dunstan in the East , you’ll walk through Lovat Lane to reach the secret garden.

You’re really close to London’s Roman Wall remains, so make sure you visit all three places – Lovat Lane, with its narrow character, retains a medieval character that asks for both our eyes and our camera.

All Hallows by the Tower, one of the most secret churches in London (and one of the oldest!) is also located close to Lovat Lane, and really, all these are perfect to visit if you’re looking for free, unusual things to do.

Read: The Best Cheap Makeup Shops in London

There you have them, all the most secret alleys, hidden passageways, old streets and magical courtyards in London!

I’ve mostly focused on the City of London, Holborn and Central London as a whole, but there are obviously many more hidden gems to discover in this beautiful city.

As I said at the beginning of this post, there are few underground streets that can be visited, if none, really, at least none that are widely advertised.

After you’re done visiting all these secret alleyways, you have lots of options to enrich your trip to London. All you have to do is keep an open mind!

Until next time!

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Sam is a certified fashion makeup artist, a freelance writer, a blogger and a digital nomad. Since 2019, she roams around the world, from London to Rome and shares her knowledge about makeup, scented candles, travel, blogging and the digital nomad lifestyle.

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Lady’s 11 Secret Places in London You Have to Discover

London has some amazing attractions , but the things I love most are its secret spots. Big Ben gets my heart going, but what keeps me exploring are the hidden spaces that make the capital unique. If you’re like me, read on for my list of 11 secret places in London.

Secret Places in London

I’ve stumbled across many of these places unintentionally, which is one of my favorite things about London. Others have been recommended by friends, and the rest have been results of exploring my own neighborhoods .

They’re only a small sample of the under-the-radar spots I’ve come to love in London, but they’re my top picks and I hope you enjoy reading about them.

1. The Hill Garden and Pergola

The Hill Garden and Pergola in Hampstead was my first big discovery when I moved to London. This secret garden awed me with its hanging flowers, raised walkway, and stunning reflecting pool.

It’s still one of my favorite secret places in London to go for a quiet walk in the city , especially in the warmer months when the blossoms are out.

2. Eel Pie Island

I came upon Eel Pie Island by accident. Right in the middle of the Thames, this hidden isle is home to quirky houses and artists’ studios. The open days are worth planning ahead for, as the island welcomes visitors and comes to life with activity.

3. The London Mews

While not a specific place, London’s mews streets are my favorite places to wander. From Kensington to Notting Hill , Holland Park to Paddington, the city has no shortage of these secret streets.

Pink houses, painted doors, overgrown gardens, and cobblestones all make the mews some of the most beautiful secret places in London.

4. The Horniman Museum

I love a good museum, and when it has an off-beat element I love it even more. The Horniman Museum in Forest Hill is the epitome of this phenomenon, complete with an overstuffed walrus and other whimsical amusements.

The gardens are lovely, too. The food market at the Horniman Museum is one of the best Sunday markets in London . It’s fun to get a snack there and take in the views of the London skyline .

5. Farrier’s Passage, London

I never thought I would find one of my favorite secret places in London right in the heart of Soho .

But Farrier’s Passage caught my eye as I was walking along Brewer Street, and I couldn’t resist the temptation to walk down the covered alley.

When I got to the end, I was rewarded with the pretty yard that is Smith’s Court. Lovely shops and a peaceful atmosphere have lured me back many times since.

6. South End Green

I wouldn’t know South End Green existed if I hadn’t lived in Hampstead for so many years. But this little village on the edge of Hampstead Heath quickly became one of my favorite secret places in London.

And how could it not? With a Daunt Books, plenty of restaurants and cafes, and a village atmosphere, it’s a given I would love this under-the-radar London neighborhood .

7. Lavender Garden in Vauxhall Park

Vauxhall Park’s lavender garden is another hidden gem I discovered by surprise.

Walking by the model village one summer day, I caught a glimpse of purple behind beds of pink roses. I went over to see it, and I ended up in a lavender field in the middle of London. It was magical.

8. St John’s Lodge Garden in Regent’s Park

Speaking of gardens, St John’s Lodge Garden in Regent’s Park is one of the best secret places in London for garden lovers and those who enjoy quiet contemplation.

Hidden away down a vine-covered walkway, it’s an oasis of peace in the middle of the park. Inside, the garden has an array of sculptures, flower beds, hedges, and benches to enjoy.

9. Eltham Palace

When it comes to palaces, London has no shortage. But some are more famous than others. You probably know about Buckingham Palace, but have you ever heard of Eltham Palace ?

In the Tudor period, everyone from Henry VIII to Elizabeth I spent time at this royal palace in London . During the 20th century, Eltham Palace was transformed into an Art Deco gem. The interiors are stunning.

It’s worth a special trip to see this secret place in London. It’s one of the best English Heritage sites in London , so if you have an English Heritage pass , you can get in for free.

10. Oxleas Wood

Not far from Eltham Palace, Oxleas Wood is another of the best secret places in London. Along with Oxleas Meadows and Eltham Common, it forms a huge green space in the southeast of the UK capital.

Not only does Oxleas Wood have miles of walking trails through the trees, but also hidden surprises like ladders, rope swings, and secret gardens. It feels like it’s a million miles from the city.

Right near the woods lies Severndroog Castle, a tower on Shooter’s Hill with spectacular views of London. This under-the-radar gem is one of the best places to go in the city if you want to get off the beaten path.

11. Fenton House

I’ll end this post where I started: Hampstead. Tucked away on a side street in the village, Fenton House is one of many under-the-radar Hampstead museums . It numbers among my favorite secret places in London for a reason: the gardens.

From manicured hedges to sunken gardens and pint-size orchards, this place packs a lot into a small walled space. Entering the grounds feels like stepping into a storybook, and seeing them from the roof terrace of the house is equally awe-inspiring.

Fenton House is a National Trust London property. You can get into it and its gardens for free with a National Trust pass . It’s worth a special trip when you’re in north London.

Best Secret Places in London

I hope you enjoy discovering these hidden spots as much as I have. If you want to explore more, there are a lot of other places profiled in Secret London – An Unusual Guide . If you’re in the UK, you can get it here . If you’re in the US, you can get it here .

Happy exploring!

What are your favorite secret places in London?

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25 Comments on Lady’s 11 Secret Places in London You Have to Discover

I know very well London ( I lived there for 19 years !!!) and I seen all those places apart the lavender Garden. thanks for sharing . My fav place in London Crystal Palace , this is the last place I lived before moving out of London for Oxford and also this is where I got engaged and got pregnant. 🙂 xx

I looked up “mews” in the dictionary to try to figure out what you were referring to. Does it mean it used to be a street of stables that have been converted to apartments? I definitely want to visit Hampstead on my next trip to London based on all the interesting things you’ve posted about it!

I’ve written all about the origin of the word on my blog post about the Royal Mews, so please feel free to take a look.

Will do, thanks for letting me know!

A great set of secret places I’ll have to check out on my next trip. When I was there last year, I explored the Temple areas and found lots of hidden gardens and quiet passages. I loved it.

I can imagine! That area is full of hidden treasures.

Great secret spots. I’ve only been to the Hornimans museum – interesting place. Love the sound of Pergola Garden – an oasis in London I can imagine!

Yeah, it’s beautiful!

Lovely suggestions!! I’ll be in London next month so I’ll be sure to check some of these out! 🙂

Thanks! I hope you enjoy them.

The mews are one of my absolute favorite things about London too! Lovely list.

Thanks! I’m glad you like the mews, too.

I love the mews, the secret corners. I love walking around the river from chiswick to richmond or discover something new in kew gardens.

That’s great! Those are lovely places.

I’ve seen The Mews. It’s beautiful!

Oh wow I have to check the lavender garden! Thank you for sharing those tips!!

You’re welcome! I hope you like the garden.

I think your blog is great and I have genuinely enjoyed this journey of discovery. I am certainly going to look ALL of these up! Thank you.

You’re welcome!

Wow, beautiful places. Thank you for sharing this as I will be in London next week for 10 days and I must see some of these places. Cheers

I’m a Londoner of many generations but it takes an enthusiastic outsider/tourist to inform me. A smashing blog! Thank you!

You’re welcome! I’m so glad you like it.

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15 Amazing Secret Spots You Have To See In London

London is filled with amazing places to see, delicious foods to eat and quirky spots to find and although all the obvious places are a definite must to visit, some of London’s more exciting ‘treasures’ are not as well known as you’d expect.

Ever since finding out about St Dunstan’s in the East (see more deets below) which is set in the most unexpected place smack in Central London, I’ve been on a hunt to find more of London’s hidden treasures .

Here are 15 amazing secret spots that you have to see in London. 🇬🇧

1.) St Dunstan’s in the East

I first found out about this garden earlier this year and one of the most surprising things about it isn’t its beautiful Gothic architecture or that it was designed by Christopher Wren but how central it is.

Image via and via

I lived within walking distance from this garden for years and had no clue there was anything like this here. It truly is one of London’s best-kept secrets and, amongst the current secret keepers, an ideal location for photography and filming. 💛

Where is it? Between Monument and Tower Hill

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2.) The Smallest Police Station in the UK

I don’t even know who thought up this idea but this station was built for the police to monitor protests going on in Trafalgar Square.

It is no longer actively used as a Police station of course but is a rather interesting sight to see when you’re out and about in Trafalgar Square.

Where is it? Trafalgar Square

3.) The Seven Noses

Dotted around Soho are 7 noses created by artist Rick Buckley which should definitely make for an interesting sight (and an impressive ‘treasure hunt’) list when in London.

Where is it? Soho

4.) Strand Station

Also referred to as Aldwych station, this station is no longer in use but is a key part of London’s history (for instance it was used to protect artwork from museums in London during the war) and although it’s closed now, you might be able to organise a tour if you contact the London Transport Museum to find out more about it.

Where is it? Temple

5.) St. Martin’s Window

There are so many reasons to visit St Martin-in-the-Fields, especially so the free concerts held in the afternoons  but when you’re around, have a look for St Martin’s Window which is a unique window into an already impressive building.

6.) The Whitechapel Bell Foundry

This is another little treasure I found out about only because I lived almost on the same street and decided to pop in one day.

Long story short, this is the very same company that built the bell, Big Ben and the Liberty Bell in the US (see picture, above) which is an iconic symbol of American independence.

The most impressive part about this is that it is the oldest manufacturing company in the UK, having operated for almost 500 years – and you can also buy yourself a bell here which is guaranteed to be one of the most exciting/historic souvenirs you can get in London (you can buy it online off their official website here or pop into the store when in London)

Where is it?   Whitechapel

Read more on visiting Whitechapel, below ⬇️

9 Best Things To Do In Whitechapel – London

7.) Isabella Plantation

This stunning garden is definitely a visual sight when you’re in London. If you find yourself here, do try to hear for King Henry’s Mound where you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of St Paul Cathedral.

Where is it? Richmond Park

8.) The Hidden Ears

Similar to the seven noses, these were created by another artist, Tim Fishlock and can be found on Floral Street in Covent Garden .

Where is it? Covent Garden

10 Best Things To Do In Covent Garden – London

9.) The Bells of St. Sepulchre

The bell does not have a pleasant history. It was used for centuries to mark the execution of offenders at Newgate prison (which is no longer in existence today). The bell is also known as the Newgate execution bell and is kept in a glass case in the nave of St Sepulchre-without-Newgate church.

Where is it? Holborn Viaduct

10.) John Snow’s water pump

And no, I’m not referring to the Game of Thrones character here, John Snow is a Doctor who traced the 1854 cholera outbreak in London to this very tap. He is one of the founding fathers of Epidemiology and his work spurred a major change to the water systems in London.

It seems almost ironic that a tap that was actually at the centre of spreading this disease should be named after him but hey ho.

Where is it? Broadwick Street (Behind Oxford Street)

11.) Number 10 Adam Street

The main reason this is a pretty good find in London is due to its striking resemblance to Number 10 Downing Street – the home of the British Prime Minister. Get a photo here and you can pretend (on Facebook and in your mind, at least) that you have had a private audience with the Prime Minister.

Where is it? The Strand

12.) Queen Elizabeth Roof Garden Bar & Cafe

A visit to at least one rooftop bar in London is a must. Even if not for the drinks or for a cool place to hang out with your friends, then for the amazing view of London you can get from it – especially during sunset. The South Bank Centre’s rooftop garden bar is definitely one of those places worth visiting in London.

Where is it? The South Bank

13.) Big Ben Bell Tower

I’ll just start by saying, this is only available to UK residents, however, on the plus side, it’s free! You can essentially climb up to the very top of Big Ben and see the actual bell that you can hear ringing on the hour every hour across all of London.

It’s a special sight to see and better still – you can stay up there on the hour and hear (and watch) it ring. Don’t worry, you’ll be provided with earplugs for this. To get in to see this (and to watch Prime Minister’s question time), get in touch with your local MP’s office.

Where is it?  Westminster

14.) Chislehurst Caves

This is one of the secret spots that’s the furthest out of Central London but it’s not often you can say you’ve gotten to explore a cave in London so you should definitely check it out.

Also, this is a venue where artists such as The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin have played in so it’s got lots more reason than just its cave appeal. 💛

Where is it? Chislehurst

15.) Cockney Cash Machine

Cockney rhyming slang is almost a language and an art-form of its own and in keeping with the Cockney tradition of East London, you can find a tiny handful of cash machines where you can select ‘Cockney’ as your language of fun and watch the fun ensue as you try to decide whether you’ve just selected opted to give all your money away or just done a simple balance check!

I exaggerate by the way – you can’t actually give all your money away using a cash machine. 😉

Where is it? Commercial Road & Roman Road (and a few other locations) in East London

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Money latest: TSB announces big increases to mortgage rates - as 'market thrown into turmoil'

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MPs have voted in favour of the government's Renters' Reform Bill - despite it including an indefinite delay to the end of no-fault evictions.

A debate on the legislation ran throughout Wednesday afternoon, including around a new clause from the government which would hold off outlawing Section 21s until a review of the courts system had taken place.

But despite outrage from charities, campaigners and opposition parties around the measure, it got the backing of the majority of MPs - and the bill passed its final stage in the Commons shortly after 6.30pm.

A Section 21 notice is the legal mechanism allowing landlords to evict tenants without providing a reason, which creates uncertainty for those who rent their homes.

The government first promised to ban the notices five years ago, back when Theresa May was still in Number 10.

But it has faced numerous delays amid threats of rebellion from Tory backbenchers - some of them landlords - who said they feared ending Section 21s would see the courts overwhelmed with more complex eviction cases.

Ministers agreed to amend the bill to ensure no ban was enacted until a probe into the courts had been held.

But the clause offers no timeline - leaving no clear date for when Section 21s will actually be scrapped.

Read more here... 

By Daniel Binns , business reporter

Ryanair is suing air traffic control body Nats over last summer's flight chaos when more than 700,000 passengers were hit by cancellations and delays.

The low-cost carrier's chief executive Michael O'Leary said his company had been forced to pay out around £15m in compensation following the  widespread disruption  around the August Bank Holiday Monday.

An investigation into the meltdown found it was caused by a  National Air Traffic Services (Nats) technical glitch .

Around 300,000 people suffered cancellations, while approximately 95,000 endured delays of over three hours, and at least a further 300,000 were hit by shorter delays.

Airlines lost a total of £100m in refunds, rebookings, hotel rooms and refreshments.

Mr O'Leary told Sky's  Business Live with Ian King : "When things go wrong in the airline industry, we have to compensate our passengers and we want to recover those costs directly from Nats."

A spokeswoman for Nats told Sky News: "Our legal team is reviewing the claim and will respond as required."

Yesterday we reported on a Which? survey ranking Virgin Media as having the worst overall customer service among broadband providers...

Virgin Media hit back - saying the annual survey used a sample size of 0.01% of its customer base, and on average 95% of customer complaints were resolved during a customer's first initial call.

And they told the Money blog improvements were being made to customer service...

"We are investing and making changes across our business to deliver tangible customer service improvements and ensure all customers receive the best possible service," the company said.

"For example, we're multi-skilling our teams and rolling out new IT platforms that make it easier for customers to get support and have issues resolved the first time they get in touch." 

Our comments section has been bombarded with people saying they are Virgin Media customers and sharing their experiences - all but two were negative.

Here's a selection...

Virgin Media broadband keeps dropping down in speed, sometimes it drops out all day. Phoning them makes no difference. We will change supplier when our contract is up. Alan Francis

I completely agree. I've had a year of unbelievably bad service relating to the installation of broadband in our new house. It's impossible to communicate with Virgin Media without severe trauma. Everything goes through one number into an automated system that simply doesn't work. Frank

Been with Virgin Media for 13 years and they have really dropped in customer service, they don't value loyalty and all their call handlers seem to be working from home. If there is a problem they transfer you to somebody else who you have to explain your issue to again. Plumby

We moved from Virgin Media for our broadband/TV a few years ago for precisely that reason - very poor customer service. Carol Bell

I left Virgin this week too. New customers get a good price whilst existing customers see prices triple. Non-UK call centre that just pass you around when anything goes wrong. Just cancelling took an hour on the phone. Glad there are new fibre providers in my area. Digger

Current Virgin Media customer and it gives me anxiety knowing I have to call them as it takes too long to get anyone on the call or they have disconnected me, or they say they cannot help and transfer me to another department and then drop the call. LisaJ

A reader calling themselves GH was more positive, saying: "I have just renewed with Virgin Media, great customer service."

And Wells85 said: "I am a Virgin customer and have been for the last nearly seven years and I think their broadband service is top notch and their customer service."

There are only a few weeks left until all cats in England need to be microchipped.

From 10 June, every moggie must have a chip and be registered on a database by the time they are 20 weeks old.

The numbered device, which shows up whenever an animal is scanned, is placed under the skin, usually around the shoulder area.

It is likely to cost £20-£30 and will be used to identify your cat if it gets lost.

Owners who miss the deadline could be fined up to £500.

There are also fears that pet insurance may be affected - if, for example, your cat is stolen and you make a claim.

There are more than nine million pet cats in England, and up to 2.3 million are unchipped, the environment department said.

Your feline's microchip "must be fitted by a trained professional", the government website says.

Vets, local councils, rescue and rehoming centres may all be able to help.

Owners are asked to keep the chip information up to date - for example, if they move house.

There are various databases that meet government standards on which to register the chip, including Animal Data, Animal Tracker and Lost Paws.

TSB has followed other major lenders in hiking mortgage rates this week - and theirs are pretty big.

First-time buyer, mover and remortgage rates are going up by as much as 0.45%.

Shared ownership/equity products will rise by up to 0.75%.

The lender is also withdrawing some tracker mortgages - and all house purchase and remortgage products (two and five-year fixed) without a fee.

It follows upward moves from NatWest, Barclays, Accord, Leeds Building Society and HSBC on Monday, and Coventry last week.

They are responding to swap rates - which dictate how much it costs to lend money - rising on the back of higher than expected US inflation data, and concerns this could delay interest rate cuts there. 

US trends often materialise elsewhere - though many economists are still expecting a base rate cut from 5.25% to 5% in the UK in June.

Ken James, director at Contractor Mortgage Services, told Newspage: "As lenders scramble for safety, the mortgage landscape appears increasingly grim. 

"With swap rates on the rise, lenders are transparent about their need for profit margins, prompting them to hike up their rates accordingly. 

"The significant uptick in rates for shared ownership mortgages suggests that TSB is distancing itself from this sector, leaving aspiring homeowners with even fewer options. 

"While TSB may be the latest target of criticism, they are not alone in seeking refuge in lifeboats, as more lenders follow suit.

"The mortgage market is once again thrown into turmoil, echoing past upheavals."

Holiday price increases may be starting to ease heading into the summer as competition heats up across the sector, Jet2 says.

Trips booked for this summer have seen "a modest increase" in cost compared with last year, the tour operator says - but prices have recently become "more competitive, particularly for April and May departures".

Russ Mould, an analyst at AJ Bell, said: "This could be a sign that the pricing power enjoyed by the sector, with people prepared to pay whatever it takes to get their week in the sun, is starting to ease."

People visiting Venice for day trips will have to pay a tourist tax from tomorrow.

The €5 charge is being implemented in part to tackle overtourism in the picturesque Italian city.

It won't be in place every day - the first charging period lasts from 25 April to 5 May. 

It will then come back into play on May 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 and 26, June 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 and 30, and July 6, 7, 13 and 14 - between 8.30am and 4pm.

Some UK banks have potential loopholes in their security systems which leave customers at risk from online scammers, according to consumer champion Which?

The group looked at the apps and websites of 13 current account providers with assistance from experts.

Despite all using multi-layered security to try and prevent security breaches, some still fell below the expected standard.

Which? gave TSB a score of 54% for its mobile app security and 67% for online security - the lowest and second-lowest scores respectively.

The Co-operative Bank placed last for online security, with a score of 61%.

A lucky EuroMillions player in the UK has just one week left to claim their £1m prize.

The punter, who bought the ticket in Northumberland, won the cash in the UK Millionaire Maker draw on 3 November 2023.

Ten UK players were made millionaires that night - but one is still yet to come forward and collect their prize.

If the money is not claimed by 1 May, 180 days from the draw date, it will be put towards funding National Lottery projects across the country.

Andy Carter, senior winners' advisor at The National Lottery, said: "While there is still time, there is still hope - we've received valid claims on major National Lottery unclaimed prizes right up to the very last minute before - but time is running out fast. 

"Our appeal is simple, take five minutes out of your day to dig out and check your EuroMillions tickets. Those five minutes could be the most profitable five minutes of your life!"

The Northumberland player is not the only one missing out on a life-changing sum of money - four more major prizes remain unclaimed with just weeks to go.

By Daniel Binns, business reporter

The index, of the 100 most valuable companies on the London Stock Exchange, hit a record closing high of 8,023 points on Monday. It then went one better on Tuesday, when it closed at 8,044. And now it has achieved an all-time intraday (during the day) high of 8,090 this morning - and looks to be on course for another closing record this afternoon.

The score, up around 0.5% this morning, is based on a calculation of the total value of the shares on the index.

The figures will help boost investors and London markets after a disappointing few years, commentators have said.

However, as Sky's business presenter Ian King pointed out yesterday , the gains are modest in comparison with other stock markets around the world.

The highs are also the result of a fall in the value of the pound, rather than the UK's improving economic outlook. Currently, £1 buys $1.24 US or €1.16, a slight improvement on the five-month lows seen earlier this week.

One of the best-performing companies on the FTSE 100 this morning is British firm Reckitt Benckiser. It makes health, hygiene and nutrition products - including well-known brands such as Cillit Bang, Durex and Nurofen.

Shares in the Slough-based company have leapt more than 5% following the publication of its first-quarter results, which showed it beat like-for-like sales estimates despite price rises.

In contrast, shares in Lloyds Banking Group slipped 2% in early trading after the lender reported that pre-tax profits for the first three months of the year fell by 28% . However,  it has since made a modest recovery.

Section 21 notices allow landlords to evict tenants with two months' notice after their fixed-term contract ends. They don't have to give a reason - hence the "no fault" eviction label.

The Renters (Reform) Bill, which is set for its final stages in the  Commons today, includes a promise to ban them - but now Michael Gove, the housing secretary, has refused to recommit to his pledge to act before a general election.

Compounding this, the Renters Reform Coalition says several rounds of "damaging concessions" have "fundamentally weakened" a bill which will maintain a "central power imbalance" in favour of landlords.

Labour has suggested the no-fault eviction ban is "collapsing under the weight of vested interests".

Research from Sky News has found more than 100 MPs have earned over £10,000 a year as landlords over the course of this parliament.

A total of 83 Tories have declared they received the sizeable rental payments since the last election in December 2019, along with 18 Labour MPs, four Liberal Democrats and one member of the SNP.

Read that story here ...

Housing Secretary Michael Gove told the BBC he "hopes" the bill will become law ahead of the general election, but it was up to the House of Lords "to decide the rate of progress that we can make".

He said: "If opposition parties are supportive - and I believe that while they have some quibbles, they are supportive of the essential principle that we're bringing forward - then we can have Section 21 ended before the general election. That's the aim."

Research by YouGov, commissioned by homelessness charity Shelter, showed 943,000 tenants had been served Section 21 notices since April 2019.

Consumer champion Jane Hawkes, also known as  Lady Janey , has explained when Britons should use holiday booking and comparison websites - and the circumstances when it's advisable to book directly.

Jane tends to book her UK-based trips directly through the accommodation provider , because you can...

• Get lower rates as the host saves money on any online commission and agent fees;
• Negotiate additional benefits such as upgrades, late/early check-in and free add-ons;
• Take advantage of last-minute availability bookings with discount prices;
• Have one port of call for changes/cancellations/refunds;
• Avoid third party processing fees;
• Accrue loyalty points. 

Jane says she does this herself when booking one of her "go-to" self-catering holiday cottages in Wales, and benefits from reduced rates as a returning guest. 

"We have built a relationship with our hosts over the years and we appreciate being able to contact them directly to discuss bookings," she says. 

If you're booking a holiday cottage, she recommends choosing the letting agency carefully as many online platforms are simply affiliate or listing sites for other companies. 

"If you make a booking using an affiliate or listing site things can get confused and complicated if things go wrong. Always ask who takes responsibility if there is a problem and check the terms and conditions of contracts carefully," Jane says. 

What about trips abroad? 

Conversely, Jane doesn't recommend booking directly for trips abroad as "you will have far less financial protection should one of the elements go wrong". 

You'll have more protection when something goes wrong if you book a package holiday with a reputable travel agent, she says, so your holiday is covered under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements 2018. 

It is also advisable to pay by credit card for additional Section 75 protection or debit card for chargeback. 

"They are also a direct port of call for help when you need it, unlike third party online booking sites."

If she is just booking a flight , Jane says she will use comparison sites to compare prices but then book directly with the airline . 

"Third party booking platforms may be able to offer cheaper flights due to bulk-buy discounts from the airlines. However, the discount might not be worth it should any issues arise," she says. 

Jane explains that if there are cancellations or changes to bookings, additional fees may be applicable for both the airline and the third party. 

"Refund or compensation requests for cancelled or delayed flights tend to be more difficult when a third party is involved," she says. 

Plus, contacting third parties to discuss a claim can prove a challenge as many companies offer customer service support online only, she says. 

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Why is Pakistan’s Nawaz Sharif on a secret visit to China?

Medical reasons are cited for Sharif’s 5-day-long visit to China

While the much-touted three-day long visit of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore that ended on Wednesday has ruled the recent media headlines in Pakistan, the very low-key visit of Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) supremo Nawaz Sharif to Beijing is shrouded in mystery.

Sharif’s five-day-long visit to China begins on Wednesday.

Being announced as a visit for ‘medical reasons’, Sharif’s favourite port of call has always been London where he self-exiled himself from 2019 to 2023. London was also where the former PM had undergone medical treatment. In that sense, a trip to China for medical treatment doesn’t make much sense.

What is surprising is that his senior party colleagues too did not have much idea about the ongoing visit.

Pakistan’s Dawn newspaper quoted information minister Attaullah Tarar as saying: "I have no idea." Nor did PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb have any. Yet another PML-N minister confirmed to the newspaper about Sharif’s "private" visit to China.

Could it be that the apparent divergent voices within the party are indicative of fault lines in the PML-N even as Nawaz’s younger brother Shehbaz Sharif holds the reins of the government in Islamabad as the PM? This had led to intense speculation on what the visit could be for.

One could be to rein in China’s worry over the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and to assuage apprehensions. The CPEC was Nawaz Sharif’s pet project which he inked with China’s Xi Jinping in 2015. The two leaders had together inked a slew of 51 agreements and MoUs as a part of which China has already invested more than $50 billion.

A mega infrastructural project, the CPEC aims to put China-Pakistan trade onto the fast track as well as to integrate the other countries of the region.

But in the last few years, there have been a series of disturbances in the CPEC area with Baluchi separatist outfits and radical jihadist militants like the Islamic State of Khorasan (IS-K) having mounted attacks on Chinese assets including Chinese workers.

China is understandably not very happy about the developments and the ostensible threats to security. The elder Sharif’s Beijing visit may be to assuage Chinese worries. Or even to seek active assistance from the Chinese to quell these disturbances.

Two, as an architect of the CPEC, Sharif enjoys substantial goodwill in China. With the Pakistani economy in the near doldrums, he may use the visit to meet business heads and companies that could lead to greater Chinese investments in Pakistan.

Three, it could also be about seeking more military aid. Already the China-Pakistan military cooperation is a thriving and prolific one. The PML-N supremo, citing concerns of growing asymmetry with India’s military might, may seek more from the Chinese. A key request may pertain to air defence systems including missiles. This is a field where India has taken remarkable strides in recent times.

Four, former PM Imran Khan, founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and inarguably a power centre even though he is being interned in, is seen as being pro-China in his political ideology and strategy while PML-N was seen as being pro-West. With China’s unquestionable rise and growing heft, the elder Sharif may be seeking out a better relationship. After all, China is a next-door neighbour.

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• Nawaz Sharif

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‘Dying for Sex’ Series at FX Casts Jay Duplass, Kelvin Yu (EXCLUSIVE)

By Joe Otterson

Joe Otterson

TV Reporter

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Jay Duplass and Kelvin Yu are the latest additions to the cast of FX ‘s limited series adaptation of “Dying for Sex,” Variety has learned exclusively.

The series is based on the podcast of the same name. Duplass and Yu join previously announced series lead Michelle Williams and cast members Jenny Slate, Rob Delaney, David Rasche, and Esco Jouléy.

The official description of the series states “Molly (Williams), a woman diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, leaves her husband of 15 years and begins to explore her sexuality. She gets the courage and support to go on this adventure from her best friend (Slate), who stays by her side all the way to the very end.”

Popular on Variety

As an actor, Duplass is known for his roles in shows like “Transparent,” “The Mindy Project,” “Industry,” “The Chair,” and “Percy Jackson and the Olympians.” Behind the camera, he and his brother, Mark, co-created the HBO series “Togetherness” alongside Steve Zissis. The brothers also co-created HBO’s “Room 104” and co-wrote and directed feature films like “Baghead” and “Jeff, Who Lives at Home” among several other collaborations.

He is repped by CAA and Odenkirk Provissiero Entertainment.

Yu is a seven-time Emmy nominee for his work on the writing team of “Bob’s Burgers,” winning the award in 2017 for best animated program. He also recently created the Disney+ series “American Born Chinese.” He has appeared on shows such as “The Afterparty” and “Master of None” as well as films like “Wonder Woman 1984” and “Milk.”

He is repped by Writ Large, WME, and Yorn Levine.

Liz Meriwether and Kim Rosenstock are writers, executive producers, and showrunners on “Dying for Sex.” Williams will produce in addition to starring. Katherine Pope, Nikki Boyer, and Leslye Headland will also executive produce along with Jen Sargent, Marshall Lewy, Aaron Hart and Hernan Lopez of Wondery Inc. 20th Television is the studio.

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22 Fantastically Fun Things To Do In London This Weekend (April 26–28)

This weekend, we've got a Caribbean food festival, Taylor Swift walking tours, a beer and bao bun bargain, and much more; here's your handy guide of the best things to do in London this weekend.

Not sure what’s on in London this weekend? Whatever the weather, we’ve got you covered. From cocktails , to brunches , markets to gigs , there’s something for everyone on our list of things to do in London this weekend!

1. Cheer on Chelsea in the Women’s Champions League semi-final

Chelsea FC Women face Barcelona this Saturday (April 27) for their second leg, battling for a place in the Women’s Champions League final. After a narrow victory in Spain in the first leg last weekend, it’s set to be a nail-biter – will they take the win at home too? Don’t miss out: secure tickets to be there in person.

2. Feast on flavourful dishes at an African and Caribbean food festival

Black Eats London , the UK’s first Black-owned restaurant directory, hosts their annual food festival this weekend (April 27–28). They’ll bring a plethora of food, drinks, and DJs to Woolwich Works. Tickets start at just £8pp; the whole family is welcome to join during the day (12–4pm), before the event goes 18+ in the evening (5pm–9pm).

3. Peruse the pretty-in-pink Richmond flower plantation

While you may know  Richmond Park for its grassy expanses, woodland, and wild deer, it’s also home to a secret garden, known as the Isabella Plantation . Here, you’ll find the fushia azaleas currently in bloom, creating a perfectly pink canopy in the heart of Richmond Park. The best time to view these flowers is late April to early May, so take the opportunity to visit this weekend.

4. Sip champagne at a festival dedicated to bubbly

If you’re a fan of the finer things in life, then The Bubbly Show  is sure to make you *pop* with excitement. Renowned restaurant Searcys will come to St James’s for two days only (April 26–27), bringing with it expert talks, blind champagne tastings, sabrage demonstrations (swordsmanship for bubbly), and more.

5. Attend a one-off pizza supper club at Fortnum & Mason

This Saturday (April 27), enjoy pizza at one of the most iconic department stores in London. Pizzeria Mozza and Fortnum & Mason have teamed up for a supper club; a four-course menu will be devised by American chef and baker Nancy Silverton, comprising ingredients from the department store. The courses will be paired with wine from Fortnum & Mason’s Piccadilly cellars. Find out more here.

6. Take a Taylor Swift-inspired walking tour

Does last week’s album drop still have you in a chokehold? Why not take your love of Tay Tay out of your earbuds and into the streets of London… ToursByLocals has used Swift’s lyrics to form guided walking tours of spots and neighbourhoods she loved during her time in the city. You won’t be saying So Long, London just yet…

7. Nab beer and bao buns for less than £20

To celebrate the start of summer (erm, has she entered the chat?), Yauatcha  has launched a special ‘beer & bao’ deal at their Broadgate Circle outpost. Whether you’re simply passing by on your way to Liverpool St station, or fancy whiling away a few hours at the panoramic Cantonese restaurant, you’ll be able to chow down on two pillowy bao buns and an Asahi Super Dry beer for just £15.

8. Explore a free-to-enter hidden temple beneath the capital

London is famed for its Roman roots, and where better to learn more than in the former Londinium aka The City of London? Sitting beneath Bloomberg’s European headquarters, you’ll find the beautifully restored London Mithraeum , a Roman temple dating back to around 300AD. It was once the place of worship dedicated to the God Mithras, and now it is free to enter.

9. Witness the Brutalist Barbican ‘dressed’ in purple

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Barbican Centre (@barbicancentre)

The Barbican ‘s Brutalist architecture has long been recognisable for its grey hues, geometric shapes, and minimalist style; however, the estate has had a (temporary) colourful uplift. Approximately 2,000 square meters of woven, purple cloth now drape down from the Lakeside Terrace, as part of an art installation. The piece by artist Ibrahim Mahama is part of the Unravel: The Power and Politics of Textiles in Art showcase.

10. Live through a Martain invasion in the capital

Ever wondered what it would be like to survive a merciless Martian invasion in Victorian England? Haven’t we all? Luckily, Jeff Wayne’s The War of The Worlds: The Immersive Experience is here to help. A multisensory adventure with holograms, virtual reality, special effects, time-warping sets and live theatrics, the eerie experience brings Jeff Wayne’s multi-platinum album to life.

11. Be wowed by a world-famous LEGO® art exhibition in London

Following success in over 100 countries, Art Of The Brick: The Exhibition is now open on Brick Lane (lol); be wowed by the works when taking a visit this weekend.

At this exhibition, you’ll find over 150 works of art, each created out of individual LEGO® bricks . Some pieces reimagine the world’s most famous artworks – Klimt’s The Kiss and Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, for example – while there is also a 20-foot dinosaur skeleton, again, made purely out of LEGO® bricks.

12. Check out rare artefacts at a hugely successful Disney exhibition

Disney100: The Exhibition should be top of the list of things to do in London for Disney fans this weekend. Originally billed for a limited run in London, this exhibit then re-opened at London’s ExCeL, thanks to phenomenal demand. Here, you’ll find 10 astounding themed galleries, filled with Disney props and costumes (plus artefacts from newer additions to the Disney family, like Pixar, Star Wars, and MARVEL).

13. Be transported to the streets of Seoul at a multi-media exhibition

If a plane to South Korea is out of the question this weekend (pretty likely, eh), make your way to Borough Yards instead. Here, you’ll find Delight: Media Art Exhibition . The works, all produced by Korean artist Gyoungtae Hong, explore a range of topics, including the artist’s heritage, traditions, and culture. Thanks to floor-to-ceiling projections and the 360-degree installations, you’ll almost feel as though you’re within the artworks themselves.

14. Admire photography shot in the style of Wes Anderson

Are you a fan of Wes Anderson’s distinctive visual style? If so, then it’s high time you take a visit to Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition  – if you haven’t already. The exhibition in South Kensington shines a spotlight on over 200 places worldwide that could be straight out of the iconic director and producer’s masterpieces, taken by many photographers.

15. Immerse yourself in a historical live experience

The Gunpowder Plot Experience in Tower Hill Vaults brings the pivotal events of 1605 to life; immersing you in the story of Guy Fawkes and the conspiracy that sparked our annual Bonfire Night. Using a combination of virtual reality, live actors, and themed cocktails , you’ll truly feel you’ve stepped back in time for a couple of hours.

16. Embark on one of the most efficient sightseeing tours of London

Fancy being a tourist in our beloved capital this weekend but short on time? Redditor ‘magulagie’ has created the ultimate London sightseeing map for those in a hurry. Spanning just over five miles long, his route will take you past a ton of London’s most iconic landmarks, and will take you around two hours (if you avoid going inside any of the places you pass, that is).

17. Grab a pint at one of the oldest pubs in London

Bored of your local? Drink in some of the capital’s history alongside your beer this weekend at one of London’s oldest pubs. Better yet, if you’re up to it, you can even make a historic bar crawl out of our handy list (though traipsing from Holborn to Hampsted does seem a little far-fetched…)

18. Scoff scones and sip champers at an awesome afternoon tea

A “weekend afternoon tea” encompasses everything from a flamboyantly fancy day out to a simple natter over scones and sweet treats. Grab a pal, and a glass of bubbles, and indulge in one of London’s wonderful afternoon teas this weekend.

19. Save some money and still get outside with some of London’s free things to do

Pinching the pennies this weekend? Considering it feels like 50 quid evaporates from our bank account the minute we step outside, we don’t blame you. We’ve compiled a handy list of 200(!!) of the best free things to do in London , and they’re not all ‘go for a walk in the park’ – promise.

20. Enjoy a feast for the eyes and stomach at one of the capital’s prettiest restaurants

Treat yourself to a meal out in one of London’s prettiest restaurants this weekend – you’ve worked hard all week, you deserve it! From muted pastel tones or wildly OTT décor, we’ve compiled a handy list of the prettiest restaurants in London to save you the research time.

21. Browse one of London’s many other thought-provoking art exhibitions

From its major galleries to its museums, London is bursting at the seams with art exhibitions . Take a leisurely stroll around the likes of the Tate Britain, the V&A or the National Gallery this weekend. We’ve compiled a list that encompasses everything from classic works to cutting-edge modern pieces and even free exhibits.

22. Grab the little ones and enjoy some family-friendly activities

In a city of nine million people, you can guarantee that you’ll find something for everyone to enjoy, no matter how old you are. If you need to entertain the kids this weekend , check out some of the best family-friendly activities in London this weekend.

Also published on Medium .

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