10 best hidden gems in London

Looking for something different to do in London? In this post I have cherry-picked 10 hidden gems in London for you. These are interesting places that are off the standard tourist map. Even my local friends didn’t know about some of these!

Whether you’re a local or a backpacker looking for a fresh perspective off the beaten track, these things to do offer unique experiences and a chance to discover a different side of London, so make sure to add them to your London itinerary.

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St. Dunstan in the East

This former church has a fascinating history dating back to the 11th century. Bombings during World War II left the church in ruins, but the outer walls remained. Instead of restoring the church, it was turned into a charming public garden that now offers a unique blend of history and greenery. It’s a hidden gem in the middle of London, less than a 10-minute walk from the Tower of London.

Attendant Coffee Roasters

Forget the big chains, Attendant Coffee Roasters is the place to go for coffee in London. Not only are their beans hand roasted in small batches, but the atmosphere in the café was impeccable. But what makes Attendant Coffee Roasters a real London hidden gem is its Fitzrovia location. Instead of entering a regular café, you walk down the stairs into a renovated Victorian public restroom. It is super unique and cozy. Keep in mind that the café only seats about 12 people, so it’s best to come during off-peak hours. Take-away is also available.

Kyoto Garden

Situated in Holland Park, the Kyoto Garden is a tranquil oasis in the heart of London. Inspired by traditional Japanese gardens, it was actually a gift from the city of Kyoto to honour the long friendship between Japan and Britain. I loved wandering around the tranquil pond and admiring the finely pruned trees. Stepping into this hidden gem of a park allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a moment of peace and reflection.

The Lookout

Craving panoramic city views? The Lookout is my favorite viewpoint in London, and it’s still a hidden gem since it’s relatively new. It’s free and offers absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of the Thames, the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. I have published a full guide to visiting the Lookout for more information.

Immersive Exhibition at Flannels

If I hadn’t heard about their exhibition, I would never have gone to Flannels. On the outside, it’s all about high-end fashion. But in the basement they also have rotating immersive exhibitions using a mix of music, projections and mirrors. No one else was there, making it a true hidden gem experience on one of London’s busiest streets. It’s free to enter, but we were asked by an employee to fill out a registration form. So next time the Outernet gets too crowded, remember that Flannels is a 10 minute walk away.

Queen’s House with Tulip Stairs Greenwich

Most travelers know Greenwich for the prime meridian, but there are two hidden gems right next door. The Queen’s House is a 17th century mansion that is now used to display items from the National Maritime Museum’s collection. These are mostly royal portraits and seascapes. However, the real hidden gem isn’t strictly part of the exhibition – it’s the Tulip Staircase. These stunning spiral staircases are beautifully constructed without a central support, making them the first of their kind in England. Another architectural highlight is the Great Hall with Richard Wright’s Great Hall ceiling. The amazing thing is that the Queen’s House is free to visit.

Painted Hall Greenwich

Another hidden gem in Greenwich is the magnificent Painted Hall. It is part of the Old Royal Naval College complex, which is beautiful in its own right. The Painted Hall has an impressive ceiling decorated with an elaborate painting. You will feel like you are in Italy or France. The artistry, historical significance and uniqueness make the Painted Hall a hidden gem for those interested in art, history or simply grand spaces.

Churchhill Arms Pub

If you can only visit one pub in London, make sure it’s the Churchhill Arms. Built in 1750, it’s known for its colorful facade overflowing with flowers – very Instagrammable! Inside, it looks just like a traditional British pub. But another thing that makes it unique and a hidden gem in London is the food. Forget fish and chips, the Churchill Arms serves Thai food, being the first pub in London to have a Thai restaurant.

Word On The Water – The London Bookbarge

Word on the Water is not the typical bookstore. This hidden gem near King’s Cross and St. Pancras is a boat transformed into a charming bookstore. Browse through a curated selection of books while gently rocking on the water. It is small, but there are places to sit and read on the boat or just outside. It is very unique and the adjacent Granary Square area is also quite charming and relaxing.

London Peace Pagoda in Battersea Park

Relax at one of the UK’s two Peace Pagodas in Battersea Park. The stupa is a Buddhist symbol of peace and was offered to the people of London by the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Order to promote world peace. It is perhaps the least known thing to do in London on this list. While you’re there, explore Battersea Park and enjoy the views of the River Thames as well as the nearby Old English Garden.

Map of London’s best hidden gems

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