As one of the most popular tourist cities in the world, there are plenty of spots around London you just can’t miss.
Here are the ten best hidden gems in London, ranked.
From Big Ben to Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament to the London Eye, there are plenty of popular tourist spots throughout the U.K. capital. Today, however, we’re going to give you the lowdown on the best hidden gems in London you probably didn’t even know exist.
So, if you want to escape the typical tourist trail and journey off the beaten track for a unique London experience, read on.
The World Bucket List’s top tips for visiting the best hidden gems in London
To make the most out of your trip to London and to catch as many hidden gems as possible, here are five tips you can follow:
- Prior to your London trip, research and look up on as many hidden gem sites as possible and see what you can work into your itinerary.
- The best way to see hidden gems in London is to keep off the beaten path and stay away from popular tourist areas.
- Speak with the locals and get their recommendations on what they would say are London’s hidden gems.
- London has numerous parks and gardens, which offer the perfect chance to relax in the heart of a bustling city.
- London is filled with small alleys and vast and charming streets that allow you to stumble upon some incredible hidden architecture.
10. The Vaults – for an underground street art experience
First up on our list of best hidden gems in London is the Waterloo Vaults or The Vaults.
These underground tunnels can be found deep under Waterloo Station in the centre of the city. They’re recognisable for their abundance of colourful graffiti that lines the walls.
Address: Leake St, London SE1 7NN
9. The Painted Hall – for a stunning Baroque hall
The Painted Hall is located inside The Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, and it’s well worth a visit if you’re in the area.
Painted by James Thornhill between 1707 and 1726, this stunning hall is an incredible example of English Baroque artwork. Looking up will truly take your breath away.
Address: King William Walk, London SE10 9NN
Read more: the top 10 hidden gems in the UK you need to experience
8. The Royal Exchange – for an insight into the city’s history
The Royal Exchange set halfway between St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London is the perfect place to get an insight into the history of the U.K. capital.
First established in 1566, the building has been destroyed by fire twice, and the one that stands today dates from the mid-1840s.
Address: Royal Exchange, London EC3V 3LR
7. Primrose Hill – for incredible views of London
Primrose Hill is undoubtedly one of the best viewpoints in the city and a must-visit on a sunny afternoon.
The perfect spot for a picnic, you can sit here on the green and relax with friends as you watch the busy city from afar.
Address: Primrose Hill Rd, London NW1 4NR
6. London’s Hidden Beach – a stunning spot with a gruesome history
Who knew there was a beach in the centre of London? The hidden beach in East London can be found tucked away behind The Prospect of Whitby, London’s oldest riverside pub.
However, this hidden beach comes with a gruesome history as it was once the site of the city’s Execution Dock.
Address: London E1W 2PN
5. Leadenhall Market – an alternative to London’s popular markets
If you’re looking for an alternative to the city’s popular Borough Market, then Leadenhall Market is one of the best hidden gems in London you need to visit.
This stunning covered market is one of the oldest of its kind in the city, and the ornate detailing is sure to impress.
Address: Gracechurch St, London EC3V 1LT
Related: if hidden gems are your thing, read our picks for the top hidden gems to visit in Rome, Italy
4. Saint Dunstan in the East – a little oasis in the heart of the city
This stunning medieval church is a must add to your London bucket list. Originally built in the 11th to 12th-centuries, the remains of this church are engulfed in a stunning green garden.
This little oasis is not far from the city centre, making it the perfect spot to escape from the hustle and bustle of inner-city life.
Address: St Dunstan’s Hill, London EC3R 5DD
3. Lewisham Phone Booth Book Exchange – better than your average bookshop
Can you think of anything more quintessentially London than the iconic red phoneboxes? Us neither. However, this one is just that little bit extra special.
In a red phonebox on Lewisham Way, you can find this miniature library where you can discover your next read or leave behind a copy of your favourite book.
Address: Lewisham Way, London SE8 4DL
2. Little Venice – perfect for an afternoon stroll
Defined by quaint tree-lined canals and winding waterways, Little Venice is a quaint little area you can find between Hyde Park and Warwick Avenue. If you find yourself in the area during the winter, Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is one of the best places to visit in Europe in December.
Discover the colourful canal boats and an abundance of great brunch and coffee shops that call this gorgeous neighbourhood home.
Address: Maida Ave, London W2 1ST
1. Kyoto Gardens – one of the best hidden gems in London
These stunning Japanese Gardens cover over 20 hectares surrounding Holland House in west London.
Officially opened in 1991 to mark the friendship between Japan and the U.K., these stunning gardens are the perfect place to escape the concrete jungle of inner-city London.
Address: Holland Park, Holland Park Ave, London W11 4UA
Your questions answered about the best hidden gems in London
If you have read our article and still have some questions left over, not to worry, for we have you covered here! In this section, we have compiled some of the most commonly asked questions about the best hidden gems in London put to us and from online.
What not to miss when visiting London?
Perhaps some of the most iconic landmarks you have to see when you are in London would be Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, the Shard, and the Tower of London.
What is secret London?
Secret London refers to lesser-known spots throughout the city that are not too well-known but are part of the fabric of London.
What does hidden gems mean?
A hidden gem refers to lesser-known places, attractions or experiences that are off the beaten track.
How many days in London?
London is a huge city, with lots to do. If you want to get the most out of your trip here, perhaps 3-5 days would be enough time to tick a lot off the list.
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