Having visited London numerous times and even lived there for a while, Ive had the chance to uncover some of the citys best-kept secrets. They also have some special lattes and hot chocolates that are definitely worth trying. The piece is a sculpture of Napoleon. Its located in Camden Town, a hip district of London. 1. Address: Little George St, London SW1P 3BD. It marks the very spot where the fire is thought to have started. The museum is a treasure trove of fascinating exhibits that will take you on a journey through the citys past. It couldnt feel more different to heaving Trafalgar Square around the corner. It was once a rough and tumble neighborhood in London. Charcoal latte is the new healthy latte trend on the scene claiming many health benefits. 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. Its a place of great significance not only to the UK but also to the history of world law. However, the branch in Soho is hidden above the sports clothing store Sweaty Betty and therefore less known. Check it out. With its rich history and diverse culture, London offers a wealth of unique experiences that cant be found in your average guidebook. Another Roman site thats a hidden gem in London is the Billingsgate Roman Bath House. Its 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? Mayfair might feel like an unlikely place to discover Londons secrets. The pushing crowds and ugly buildings disappear, replaced with a quaint series of booksellers, Victorian facades and still-functioning gas lamps. There are so many hidden gems in London that if were frank, if youre not taking the time to explore the city, you are not doing it justice. Things to do in soho London - a Londoner's guide. Youll visit via a guided tour which will make Johnsons life come alive. Cecil Court is home to many obscure antique shops, second hand book shops, and even more book shops selling books about witchcraft and magic. Tucked away down a tiny side street in Seven Dials is the colourful Neal's Yard, one of London's prettiest streets. Are you visiting London & want to find another side to it? The flower market is only held on Sundays, although some shops are open on other days of the week. For 200 years the Soho area was at the heart of London's sex trade. Look no further. You can register online here and then go in to pick up the card. All you need is a proof of address and some ID. They are London's leading purveyor of seasonal Oriental themed libations, using ingredients sourced locally in Chinatown. It was the working library of a well read man. Address: Camden LockPlace London NW1 8AF. The British Film Institute is a hidden gem in London on the south bank of the Thames. Were NOT sorry about it. Dont worry, if you think youve found the right place, you probably have. You can book a3 hour guided tourof both Apsley House and the V&A Museum. That is why, I decided to dedicate the time to explore the neighbourhood and hopefully discover and visit new gorgeous spots. 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. . He moved in March 1837. The Counting House Pub 3.The Ruins of St Dunstan in the East 4. Everyone heads to the Shard for views, but theres an equally stunning place for views thats not nearly as well known and perfectly free, theGarden at 120. In fact, the city had such a problem with the clear stuff in the 18th Century that theres a bonafide period in Londons history known as the Gin Craze (go look it up if you dont believe us). Its all that remains of a once Royal Residence. Hidden Gems in London | 21 non touristy things to do in London If youre looking for a great view of the city, Primrose Hill is the perfect escape. We are dedicated to discovering and exploring hidden locations in the UK which the average joe never knew existed! Aaaand thats why today you can have lunch in the open-air ruins of a mediaeval church in the heart of the City of London. 388. Artifacts discovered during excavations are in the Museum of London, another hidden gem in London that I discuss below. I only found this spot because I was on a private tour of London hidden gems. But dont be shocked if theres nowhere to sit. Now a museum open to the public, visitors can explore five rooms where Churchill once lived, including the dining room, library, drawing room, Clementines bedroom, and Winstons study. London vlog - Where to eat in London Chinatown + Hidden Gems in London Soho Well level with you Mercato Mayfair is one of the best hidden gems in London for now. Once youve got your readers card you can access all the previously inaccessible rooms. LETO is a trendy cafe that serves Mediterranean influences dish such as Shakshuka. Youll thank us when you do. When Dickens lived there, it was a 12 room dwelling outfitted in pink brick. Address: St Dunstans Hill, London EC3R 5DD. Address: 10-11 Carlton House Terrace, London, SW1Y 5AH. UK Hidden Gems! BFI hosts a series of film and television festivals. Ultimate Guide To Romes Colosseum In 2023 + Tips! The Garden at 120 is still a hidden gem in London. Farm Girl is known for being healthy-conscious serving aai bowls, avocado toasts, salads and granola. Now, visitors can explore the reconstructed temple and marvel at the remarkable collection of artifacts uncovered during the excavation. 5 Cool Indie Bars That Might Have Flown Under Your Radar. Soho is a great place to stay as a tourist. If youre a frequent reader youll know that we love St Dunstan in the East. The striking shade of blue paint is made using crushed glass. Rumour even has it that Cecil Court provided the inspiration for Diagon Alley in J.K Rowlings Harry Potter books (though others will argue until theyre blue in the face that the title should go to nearby Goodwins Court instead). There we are: 33 hidden places in London for you to explore. The golden bedroom, adorned with a statue of a Greek goddess, is another highlight. The most famous paintings are Vermeers Lady at the Virginal with a Gentleman and Artemisia Gentileschis Self-Portrait as the Allegory of Painting. If you said to us that wed get excited about a pumping station that formed part of Londons sewage system, wedhave raised an eyebrow to say the least. Youll find it underneath an office complex on Lower Thames Street. If were talking looks alone, The Coach & Horses is, without a doubt, one of the cutest pubs in London. But it got a major remodel in the 19th century and then again in the 20th century to repair bombing damage from WWII. I went there for breakfast with a friend and ordered the poached egg and avocado on green bread. The walls are lined with Freuds personal library of over 1,600 books, interspersed with several notable pictures hung as he arranged them. If youre the kind of person who spends your whole life on Bond Street looking for this seasons must-have designer find, we guess youll be rolling your eyes like goodness, I must go to the Royal Arcade thrice-monthly at least. Theres nothing us Londoners love more than telling people about a great little place we know. At first it was just for butchers and fishmongers (both long gone) before it became one of Londons most important markets. This all makes this hidden gem in London worth a visit. There are rows of ancient figures on the desk where Freud wrote until the early hours of the morning. The building is a typical Gothic building, like a solemn palace. Including The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities, Fine . Located at Cafe Royal Hotel in Soho, Cakes & Bubbles is an upscale dessert restaurant. Having opened recently, the restaurant is a truly hidden gem and a must-visit on your London bucket list. 40 Of London's Hidden Gems | DesignMyNight Its all set amid a Potter-themed decor. Its a colorful spectacle of 60 stalls with blooms, plants and even trees. Need some Harry Potter gear or souvenirs? Were 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 thats London for you. Maybe its the fact that, despite being sandwiched between Covent Garden and Charing Cross Road, entering feels like stepping into the Narnia wardrobe. So, join me as we venture off the tourist trail and explore the hidden gems that make London such a special place. There were brothels aplenty, as well as some of the citys poorest slums. The museum just finished hosting a thought proving Amy Winehouse exhibition, which I was fortunate to see on my last trip. Address: Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA. You can take your pick. It was a space used for lavish parties. The shop was founded by two individuals who did the graphic design work for the Harry Potter films. The house is also where youll find the gorgeous Tulip Stair, so called because of the intricate tulip motifs on the iron railings. Chinatown stands out - a vibrant and distinct part of London's West End it's beloved by locals and tourists alike. Heres my completeguide to the London Mithraeum. You can even lay down to admire the paintings on day beds provided by the museum. Youll find a mishmash of Roman, Greek, and Egyptian artifacts, urns, statues, and vases. My journey through Soho brought me to this first location, Cakes & Bubbles. 10 Places To Eat In London's Soho - City Unscripted But the Queens Gallery on site is. Its 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. 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. The Horniman Museum is one of Londons most whimsical museums. Yes, you heard it right, charcoal. 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. For those who are fascinated by history and enamored with Georgian era architecture, the Benjamin Franklin House is an absolute must visit. All Rights Reserved, guided Jack the Ripper walking tour in London. While Leadenhall Market has slowly crept onto an increasing number of peoples radars, its still unknown enough to warrant a spot on any list of secret places to visit in London. Not only is it in cutesy Belgravia and one of the best looking mews in London, but its not that well-known so you can have a look around in peace. 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. Sign up to get travel tips and advice for your next journey. London's Best Underrated Restaurants | Hidden Gems - Eater London The Charles Dickens House was renovated in 2011 to coincide with the bicentenary of Dickins birth. I opted for the pistachio cake and a latte, while my friend ordered a green tea. 26. But in the 80's the area "cleaned up its act". However, due to financial troubles, Churchill almost lost the house twice. In fact, it was in one of these rooms that Johnson compiled his famous Dictionary of the English Language. The facade is red and white striped. You can also visit the Mithraeum on a3 hour guided tour of Roman London. I had the chicken Satay and a side salad with aubergine. 2258 reviews Taking Bookings Opium is a secret cocktail bar in the heart of Chinatown. Believe us, we are not (well, we kind of are but in the friendliest, loveliest way). This is where youll find the famous Armada Portrait of Elizabeth I. Unlike Buckers and other Royal Palaces, St Jamess Palace is rarely (read: never) open to the public but you can see large parts of the palace buildings without going inside. Cutter & Squidge is a stylish bakery and cafe, serving delicious cakes and afternoon tea. If you're ever around the corner or paying a visit to study spots in Southbank, that's a great installation to discover. From its world-famous theater district to its bustling pubs and restaurants, Soho is a must-see destination in London. Who wouldnt want to discover an ancient Roman temple buried in the heart of The City? Carlton House Terrace is a hidden gem in London that was built by the great Regency architect John Nash. Looking for a new haunt? In addition to the four screen cinema, theres a brilliant common space and movie bookstore. It took us a long time to get on board with the mews brigade. Glasgow Central Tours. Its totally worth the short detour just for the colorful facades. Its one of very few 18th century residential houses in London still standing. Turner, Canaletto, and William Thomas Beckford. Especially, for breakfast and brunch. Spitalfields Market is a true locals joint compared to Londons other popular and more touristy markets. Do you like gadgets and how they work? The house museum is open four days a week, check the website. Soho is definitely one of Londons most popularneighbourhoods, and its easy to understand why. Dont 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. 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, thats a burden we are willing to carry. Tucked away in Somerset House, the Courtauld Gallery is a true hidden gem in London, having first opened its doors in 1932. As I needed a quick coffee break, I opted for the charcoal latte. SEA LIFE Tower of London Hidden gems in London - North London 1. Our most recommended Soho, London Hidden gems 1. At last, we ordered thePistachio Rose & Raspberry Cake as Ive heard that they are specialised in delicious cakes. London: Rock 'n' Roll History Bus Tour As a result, St. Dunstan was left in picturesque ruins. It's time to start exploring Leeds' hidden gems. 44 London Hidden Gems: See London Off the Beaten Path - Ally Travels Its one of Londons absolute best hidden gems. Designed in the 1890s by Francis John Bentley and consecrated in 1910, the Westminster Cathedral is a relatively new church. The Resident Soho: Hidden Gem in Soho - See 3,645 traveler reviews, 855 candid photos, and great deals for The Resident Soho at Tripadvisor. The selection is changed seasonally. Maybe thats why the speakeasy scene has practically exploded here in the past decade (that and the fact that we ruddy love a good cocktail). Cecil Court is a quaint 17th century lane that spokes off from Charing Cross Road. It has a 280 foot tall campanile, making it appear like an antique building from Istanbul. Spitalfields Market has been around since the Great Fire of London. Alfred Hitchcock was born at 517 High Road in Leytonstone in 1899. By 109mirandao. Friday 10 March 2023. It might seem weird for us to say that the citys oldest restaurant is one of the secret spots in London, but bear with me because Im not talking about the restaurant itself, were talking about its absolutely jaw-dropping upstairs bar. You can climb 311 steps up a steep spiral staircase for great views at the top. Franklin was, of course, a highly influential figure during the American Revolution. One of the most striking oddities in the cemetery is the Hardy Tree. In them youll find plenty of empty desks and supreme quiet something thats missing from the BLs main public areas. Here you can find reviews and style guides on luxury experiences in destinations from all around the world. Lah-di-dah. Well, thats not wrong but well bet very few of you have ever heard of Pickering Place. Best described as a village that got sucked up into London, the area has retained its rural feel. The museums marquis masterpiece is a colossal sculpture ofMars The Peacemakerby the Italian Neo-Classical sculptor Anthony Canova.