London has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and it’s no wonder why, as the capital city is home to some of the best sights in the UK with plenty of activities to be getting on with during your visit. It seems that no matter where you go in London, you’ll be met with large crowds of people all enjoying their days out in the UK’s most famous city. However, for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle, there are spots in London that offer so much and are without a large amount of tourists.
In this guide, we will explore some secret spots in London where you can visit and enjoy a lovely day out. Continue reading to learn more.
Secret London Spots
St Dunstan in the East
Visit St Dunstan in the East to experience breathtaking ancient history and natural beauty. This peaceful sanctuary is built directly within the bombed-out ruins of a medieval church that dates back to around 1100, showcasing Sir Christopher Wren’s surviving steeple. It’s often overlooked from standard tourists, so you’ll have the chance to explore the area without much foot traffic getting in your way. The garden is completely free to enter and is open daily from 8:00 AM until 7:00 PM, so it’s great for anyone who is travelling to London on a budget.
Visitors can relax on the lawns or sit among the vines and trees that now weave their way through the empty window frames.
Location: St Dunstan’s Hill, London EC3R 5DD
The Hill Garden and Pergola
The Hill Garden and Pergola is a stunning Edwardian oasis on the edge of Hampstead Heath, which feels hidden away from the busy city centre. It was built in the 1900s for soap magnate Lord Leverhulme, it features a 230-meter raised stone walkway covered in climbing roses and vines, which you must walk across during your visit. It’s also beautifully landscaped, as the tranquil Hill Garden is perfect for a peaceful escape where you can sit in a really relaxing environment.
Time your visit in late spring to see the structure completely festooned with wisteria, or in June/July for peak blooming of rambling roses and clematis.
Location: Inverforth Cl, London NW3 7EX
God’s Own Junkyard
While visiting a warehouse in London doesn’t sound like the most amazing experience, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with God’s Own Junkyard in Walthamstow. It’s Europe’s largest collection of salvaged neon signs that were created by the late “Neon Man,” Chris Bracey. It showcases retro fairground lights, pop culture art and iconic props used in Hollywood blockbusters like Batman and Eyes Wide Shut. The collection is the culmination of over 37 years of salvaged pieces.
Unlike many central London museums, entry is completely free, making it one of the most vibrant and unusual budget-friendly experiences in the city.
Location: Unit 12, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall St, London E17 9HQ
Leake Street Arches
Leake Street Arches, located beneath the platforms of London’s Waterloo Station, is a vibrant urban gem best known as London’s longest legal graffiti wall. Initiated by Banksy in 2008, the 300-meter tunnel is constantly evolving. It’s an open-access canvas where you can watch street artists painting live and even leave your own mark.
The arches house highly-rated spots, such as Banh Bao Brothers for Vietnamese food and Draughts Waterloo where you can grab a drink and choose from hundreds of board games.
Location: Leake St, London SE1 7NN
The Garden at 120
The Garden at 120 is a spectacular 15th-floor rooftop oasis in the City of London. You should visit to enjoy breathtaking 360-degree skyline views of London, where you can take some amazing photographs and capture unique videos. It’s also completely free admission with no advance booking required, so don’t worry about planning it out.
The space also features 85 Italian wisteria trees, fruit trees and a 200ft-long flowing water feature surrounded by relaxed seating.
Location: 120 Fenchurch St, London EC3M 5BA
Little Venice
Your trip to London isn’t complete without visiting Little Venice and experiencing a beautiful boat trip down to Camden Lock. This is a 45-minute narrowboat ride via Jason’s Trip Canal Boat or the London Waterbus to avoid the busy tube, which will give you some lovely views of the surrounding trees and waterside cafes.
While there, check out the award-winning comedy and fringe performances at the Canal Café Theatre or enjoy an intimate marionette show on the Puppet Theatre Barge.
Location: Maida Vale / Paddington, W9 2PF
Postman’s Park
Postman’s Park is best known for the Watts Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice, a wall of hand-painted ceramic tiles honoring ordinary people who died while saving the lives of others. It features dozens of beautifully inscribed Royal Doulton tiles, creating a beautiful display that needs to be seen to be believed.
Nestled right in the heart of London’s bustling financial district, the park offers a peaceful green space to relax, read or escape the city noise. For those planning to drive there, securing a space at a car park in London before you arrive can make your visit much smoother.
Location: King Edward St, London EC1A 1HQ
Walking Dead
Harika Bantupalli
