The Hidden Gems of Our Capital: London’s Best Kept Secrets

There is no place like London. It has everything you could wish for: museums, monuments, parks, shops, and stylish locals!

Here you can wander through opulent Royal palaces, inhospitable dungeons of old towers, applaud, laugh, and cry at mind-blowing theatre shows in and off the West End. You can even peer inside the house of one of the world’s most renowned fictional detectives – Sherlock Holmes, of course. my dear Watson. There are endless attractions and opportunities that make this city unique including many hidden gems that also deserve some love.

Little Venice

As the name suggests, Little Venice is a picturesque neighbourhood with peaceful waterways and canals. Take a stroll through quirky cafes and waterside restaurants while both taking in the tranquillity of the canals and even enjoying a puppet show on a boat. 

Little Venice is less than a ten-minute walk from Paddington station and a stone’s throw from Warwick Avenue tube station. Walk along the waterside path or hop on a small vessel, and enjoy a memorable journey past Regents Park, alongside London Zoo to Camden Town and its weekend markets.

St Dunstan in the East

The Ruined Church That’s Now A Beautiful City Park • St. Dunstan in the East

With greenery draping its ruins and a solitary fountain within its walls, St Dunstan in the East is a quiet oasis in the centre of this bustling metropolis. Close to Monument and Tower Hill underground stations, this historic church is certainly worth a visit.

Originally built around 1110 but damaged in both the Great Fire of London (1666) and in the World War II Blitz (1941), it has become an overgrown secret garden. Stand in its nave, or sit on a bench, and admire its melancholic beauty. A rainy day would simply add to its fascination – TOP TIP:  take  one of these beautiful clear umbrellas so you can look at the church’s wounded majesty without getting wet!

Number 10 – Adam Street

No. 10 Adam Street.
Credit: Londonist

Ever fancied taking a picture in front of the Prime Minister’s house? Would you like to trick your friends into thinking you’ve had a private meeting with global leaders in Downing Street or snuck in for a BYOB works do? Then get yourself down to… number ten Adam Street.

About half a mile away from the PM’s guarded residence, 10 Adam Street is available for photo opportunities at all times. The front door may not be exactly identical to its famous counterpart, but it’s likely to fool even the most eagle-eyed follower on your social media account.

Interestingly, it was never a copycat attempt. Instead, both front doors were built in the late 18th century, and are simply two coincidental contemporaries.

Sir John Soane’s Museum

Despite being one of the more understated art galleries in London, Sir John Soane’s Museum is by far one of the city’s finest public museums. Once the house of the renowned architect of the Bank of England, Sir John Soane, the building hosts over 20,000 art and antique pieces – including enchanting works by Turner and Canaletto.

Moreover, it is also home to the fascinating Sarcophagus of Seti, an Egyptian Pharaoh who died in 1279 BC. While the exterior may be relatively unassuming, it’s a house full of surprises and also worth a visit on a rainy day.

Kyoto Garden – Holland Park

The oriental-inspired Kyoto Garden is nestled in what is already a hidden gem – Holland Park. The 22-hectare park in West London encircles the ruins of Holland House, which was severely damaged during the 1941 World War II Blitz.

With ponds full of koi carps, stone lanterns, calm waterfalls, and Japanese maple trees, the Kyoto Garden lends a unique atmosphere to the park. It was opened in 1991 and is a gift from the Japanese city of Kyoto, symbolising the long friendship between Britain and Japan.

Moreover, it features a ‘Fukushima Memorial Garden’, commemorating both British people’s support and Japanese citizens’ gratitude after the devastating 2011 tsunami and earthquake.

God’s Own Junkyard

If you have admiration for Las Vegas and all things kaleidoscopic, God’s Own Junkyard in Walthamstow is the place to go. It’s the latest London district becoming a hotspot for hipsters and creative artists, and this colourful warehouse is rich in neon props and signs that are sure to brighten up your day.

With bright–light figures hanging from the ceiling and stacked on the floor, this multifunctional gallery should definitely be on your ‘places to visit’ list. It’s instragammable in spades.

Leadenhall Market

Vctorian grandeur of Leadenhall Market London

Situated just five minutes away from Monument tube station, Leadenhall Market is a historic spot with stunning red and gold accented Victorian-built architecture. This landmark dates back to the 14th Century and was rebuilt following the Great Fire of London in 1666.

Initially a market full of butchers and fishmongers, it is now a buzzy and airy place where you can shop, dine, and drink. Film lovers will recognise Leadenhall Market as the shooting location for iconic wizard and witch pub The Leaky Cauldron of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Location for Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, Hereafter and Love Aaj Kal.

The Sherlock Holmes Museum 

The home of Sherlock

Escape the London bustle, step back in time, and enter a world of gas light, Victorian curiosities, and many of the objects, letters and characters from Sherlock Holmes’ most famous cases. The Sherlock Holmes Museum is situated at 221B Baker Street, London, one of the world’s most famous addresses. His rooms have been faithfully maintained to give an insight into the life and stories of the world’s first consulting detective.

There is simply no hiding that London is one of the most wonderful cities in the world. Rich in history, full of gardens and landmarks, it has so much to offer to locals and visitors alike. Enjoy.