Everyone knows about the Tower of London, but there are also plenty of hidden gems in London to be discovered. Spend a day wandering secret gardens, sipping cocktails in underground speakeasies or surprising your out-of-town guests with unique places not featured on standard tourist itineraries.
The Museum of London may not get as much recognition as its rival British Museum, but it’s well worth your while to visit. Not only are its collections fascinating but admission is free!
Chelsea Physic Garden
The Chelsea Physic Garden is a tranquil sanctuary where plants are celebrated. Established by the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries for apprentice apothecaries to study medicinal plants in 1673, today it stands as one of the oldest walled gardens and serves as an annual celebration of plant-science.
Visitors to Europe’s oldest rockery can explore glasshouses full of exotic plants. A collection of bee libraries made out of books and wire netting provide shelter for bees that have seen decline over the years.
Kyoto Garden
Kyoto Garden in Holland Park is an elegant Japanese garden designed by an acclaimed Japanese landscape architect and donated in 1991 as a symbol of longstanding relations between Britain and Japan. A great getaway from the exhilarating London theme parks.
Garden is an idyllic space to wander and spend time reflecting. Among other features are koi carp-filled pond, traditional stone lanterns, Japanese maples and cherry trees blooming during spring and autumn seasons, as well as large grass fields to provide space to run or bike through.
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Dennis Severs’ House
18 Folgate Street in Spitalfields is home to one of London’s more eccentric museums: an eccentric American artist named Dennis Severs purchased it and turned it into an elaborate “still life drama” depicting life between 17th and 19th century Europe.
As you explore each room, your senses will guide your journey – footsteps and voices, a smoky haze, ticking clocks and wafts of cooking all come together to transport you back in time – something Mr. Rea had intended so that visitors would experience emotionally rather than cognitively.
Leadenhall Market
One of the oldest covered markets in London, this Victorian market offers many hidden treasures. While during the week its bustling with white collar workers, on weekends visitors come for quiet exploration of its beautiful cobbled lanes and ornate Victorian buildings.
At the market you will also find shops, cafes and restaurants such as GrabThai, Leon and Osteria del Mercato for all of your dining needs. Or why not visit Brokers Wine Bar and Restaurant for something different with its extensive wine list and dining experience.
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Temple of Mithras
Discovering a temple dedicated to Mithras in 1954 was one of London’s greatest archaeological finds. Unfortunately, however, it was rebuilt incorrectly on another site and since has become wedged between a road and office block; thanks to Bloomberg however it is now back where it belonged in its original spot.
London Mithraeum serves as a reminder that Roman planning and engineering played an integral part in creating our modern metropolis, London. Visit it and experience its mysticism first-hand!
Sir John Soane’s Museum
Sir John Soane, an influential neoclassical architect, lived here as an antiquities dealer and architectural scholar who filled his former home with antiquities, sculptures and architectural sketches collected over time – an invaluable insight into London history.
Visitors will discover everything from Pharaoh Seti I’s alabaster sarcophagus (which cost him PS2000 and was celebrated with three days of festivities) to original architectural models, paintings and drawings by Canaletto and Hogarth. An hour-long Highlights Tour can also be booked for an affordable fee.
Bath House
London offers many famous attractions that everyone knows, but for something truly memorable and off the beaten path, check out some of its lesser-known spots. They can make your experience truly extraordinary.
Neal’s Yard offers colorful courtyards dotted with health food shop facades that you can explore or underground silver shops to be explored on Chancery Lane – and much more to discover in this eclectic neighborhood! There’s always something new and unexpected in Neal’s Yard! There’s lots more waiting to be discovered in this unique community!
Strand/ Aldwych
Even though it’s surrounded by some of London’s top attractions, Kensington Gardens feels like an oasis from its busyness. Enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee or enjoy lunch outdoors in its lush garden area.
The Tulip Stair is one of London’s most striking architectural gems, located within Queen’s House and notable as being the first cantilevered spiral stairs ever seen in England. Often described as looking like beautiful blue wrought iron flowers resembling tulips – giving this staircase its name!
