London’s best hidden gems
Don’t be like everyone else and visit all the overcrowded and often overhyped tourist spots.
Planning a trip to London? Don’t be like everyone else and visit all the overcrowded and often overhyped tourist spots. Instead read this guide to discover the best hidden gems and secret spots that London has to offer.
Little Venice
You can find this picturesque canalside neighbourhood between Paddington and Maida Vale in London. It’s the perfect place to head to if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. In Little Venice you’ll find colourful houseboats, peaceful walkways and waterside cafes. Top tip - stop at Cafe Laville for breakfast with amazing views over the canal.
St Dunstan in the East
St Dunstan is a former churchyard that was damaged in the Great Fire of London in 1666 and is now a little green oasis in the City of London. This tucked away leafy city park still has its original church windows and makes a great photo location. It’s also surprisingly peaceful given its proximity to tourist hotspots like Sky Garden and Tower Bridge.
Covent Garden (but not the obvious bits)
Covent Garden may be one of London’s best-known places, but you’ll also find a surprising amount of hidden gems tucked away in this Central London neighbourhood. Some of London’s most interesting little streets and Harry Potter-esque alleyways can be found just a short walk from the famous Covent Garden Piazza. Make sure to visit Neal’s Yard while you’re there - this hidden little courtyard is filled with colourful buildings and great places to eat & drink.
Regent’s Canal
Another lovely London canal - Regent’s Canal runs through the heart of Kings Cross, and despite its central location it remains pretty undiscovered by tourists. Like Little Venice, it’s dotted with colourful houseboats and home to some great little riverside pubs and cafes. For a perfect London weekend activity, pick up some food from Broadway Market in Hackney, then go for a stroll along the canal.
Leadenhall Market
You can find this magical Victorian covered market right in the heart of the City of London. It was originally a meat, poultry and game market, but now is home to dozens of shops, bars and restaurants. Leadenhall Market looks like something straight out of a film, so it should come as no surprise that it was featured in the first Harry Potter film as the entrance to Diagon Alley.
The market can get busy with city workers during the week but is almost deserted on weekend mornings - the best time for visitors to uncover this hidden gem.
Hampstead Pergola
You might have heard of Hampstead Heath, but do you know about the Hill Garden & Pergola hidden away in one corner of the heath? Hampstead Pergola is a stunning hidden gem of a terrace that’s largely undiscovered by tourists. It’s another perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a peaceful spot in London and also makes for a great photo spot.
Secret Old London Hidden Gems
If you want to discover some of the oldest and most memorable sections of London, this walking tour is a great way to do it. The Secret Old London Hidden Gems excursion takes you through the important area of Smithfield and reveals remarkable stories from London’s past including tales of medieval fairs and Tudor executions.
London hidden gems by a local
For more of London’s best hidden gems, you can take this London highlights & hidden gems with locals tour. This private tour is led by a local guide who will show you all the must-see sights as well as hidden away sights that other visitors overlook. You’ll be taken off-grid to find old prisons, cemeteries and other secret places, while your guide reveals their stories and secrets.
