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The Curious Traveler’s Guide to London’s Hidden Courtyards, Gardens & Historic Streets

By: Author The Working Line

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Been here before? Then you know how much I love discovering all types of new hidden gems in London, from cute bakeries to tiny, secret alleys.

That’s why today, I thought I’d share with you most of London’s hidden courtyards, magical churchyards and secret gardens you don’t usually see, especially when visiting London for the first time.

I’ve written quite a good handful of posts about hidden spots in which you’ll find the real, historic London, and we’re about to dive way deeper here.

The Curious Traveler’s Guide to London’s Hidden Courtyards, Gardens & Historic Streets

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London being one of the most important cities in Europe (dare I say in the whole wide world?), with a rich Roman and medieval history amongst others, remnants of those cultures can be observed all around town.

Stately homes, for instance, often bear traces of their Georgian, Edwardian and Victorian influences.

Around maritime neighborhoods such as Bermondsey, London Bridge and Southwark, you can not only admire but feel a special atmosphere enhanced by vestiges of old ports.

Around Moorgate, Barbican and Farringdon, in addition to Holborn and Chancery Lane is where you can still see a lot of London’s medieval sites.

And in the City of London, you can admire not only church ruins but also pieces of Roman London, with beautiful hidden gems such as the Tivoli Corner and the Roman ruins at the Guildhall Art Gallery.

Anyhoo – today’s all about London’s hidden courtyards and secret places I may have not shared with you before – enjoy the ride!

Hidden Courtyards in London: Smith’s Court, W1

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Photo: Tripadvisor

We’ll start our visit with Smith’s Court, a hidden courtyard located in the West End of London, very close to Soho.

If you’re ever looking for places to visit in Central London or hidden gems in Soho, make your way to this very secret place, where you’ll find a mix of contemporary and historic buildings.

Lovers of beautiful bookshops, you’ll find The Second Shelf in Smith’s Court, a tiny bookshop that specializes in rare books and manuscripts and happens to be very instagrammable.

Read: The Best Cheap Clothes Shops in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Goodwin’s Court, Covent Garden

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Photo: @two_pembrokes

Goodwin’s Court, with its cobblestone pavement and Georgian buildings, is one of Covent Garden’s best hidden gems.

We’re located close to all the Covent Garden shops as well as the Tube station here, which makes Goodwin’s Court an easily accessible photo spot.

Bow windows and old lampposts add to the old world charm of the courtyard, which has not only been used as a filming location in various shows and movies, but is also one of these historic places you wouldn’t think of finding so close to bustling Covent Garden.

Read: The Prettiest Churches and Temples in London

Secret Gardens in London: St Pancras Church Gardens

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Photo: Studioweave

Now, now, for whoever loves seeing London off the beaten path, St Pancras Church Gardens should illuminate your day.

Located in the City of London, the tiny square offers beautiful carved benches made of wood that make for a perfect photo opp.

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Photo: Studioweave

We do have many secret passageways located nearby, many of which make for the City of London’s best hidden gems, but if I have to be honest, there’s no other spot in London with such beautifully carved benches.

Anyone with an artistic soul will very much enjoy a visit to this tiny park!

Read: The Most Secret Palaces and Castles in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: George Yard, EC3

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Photo: Loopnet

If you happen to visit the Sky Garden or the Garden at 120 someday, make sure you pop by George Yard, close to both of these free viewpoints.

George Yard is now surrounded by office buildings with beautiful architecture, and it makes for a calm place to tread and relax while enjoying the red brick buildings.

Enter George Yard, and you’ll have a good surprise: on the left, at the end of the yard, you’ll be able to see remains of a Roman forum.

The Square Mile, or the City of London, is clearly filled with many ruins, but to see ruins of Roman London where I don’t expect them always makes my day.

Leadenhall Market and the outstanding Aux Merveilleux de Fred is located a couple of minutes away, and that’s a place I recommend to enjoy another type of stunning architecture with mindblowing French pastries.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in West London

Hidden Courtyards in London: St Alphage London Wall

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Photo: Englandssecretescapes

St Alphage London Wall is a secret garden established on the site of the former St Alphage Church, and in which you can enjoy medieval remnants of the church demolished in the 1950s.

Like many of what are now London’s secret church ruins, St Alphage Church was first damaged during World War II, and later demolished as part of post-war reconstruction efforts.

We’re here in the Barbican district, which offers beautiful Brutalist architecture and one of London’s free museums, the Museum of London, in which you can learn all about the city’s history.

Walk (much) more towards the center of London, and you’ll reach Holborn and Chancery Lane, filled with medieval sites, coffee shops and independent shops.

Whatever you choose to do, St Alphage London Wall, or St Alphage Gardens, are in my opinion one of the most magical places in London and one to visit if you enjoy history and architecture.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in East London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Blue Ball Yard, SW1

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Photo: Mapio

Blue Ball Yard is located close to St James’s and Green Park, two of the poshest areas in London – to reach it from Piccadilly Circus doesn’t take you more than 10, 15 minutes.

The atmosphere you feel is the same as in London’s pretty mews, with cobblestone pavement, flowers and historic architecture.

If you’re interested in visiting Central London with another mindset, visit nearby Mayfair’s hidden gems – but do start with Blue Ball Yard.

We’re here in one of the best hidden courtyards of London, and if you get hungry, you’ll find lots of coffee shops and restaurants nearby.

Read: Camden Passage, London’s Prettiest Historic Street

Secret Gardens in London: Inner Temple Gardens

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Photo: GardenVisit

Inner Temple Gardens are one of my favorite places to visit in London when I don’t want to feel I’m living in London, if that makes any kind of sense.

The historic garden is located in the Inner Temple, one of the four Inns of Court of London, just off Fleet Street.

Fleet Street is one of the oldest streets in London, easily accessed by walking down the road from St Paul’s Cathedral.

The beautifully landscaped Inner Temple Gardens definitely add something more to a plain visit to London, what with all the hidden courtyards, medieval architecture of Temple Church,

Walking around the area will bring you even more insight to London’s history.

There are indeed so many hidden gems in Fleet Street, from secret alleys to sculptures and statues you can enjoy when looking up, that you can easily spend a full day around.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in North London

Hidden Courtyards in London: St Helen’s Place

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Photo: CompleteOfficeSearch

St Helen’s Place isn’t only one of the City of London’s hidden courtyards, but also an astonishing photo spot, since you have the Gherkin in the background.

I’ve been there a handful of times, and St Helen’s Place isn’t always open, protected by gates, but you can still get a very good peak though said gates.

However, its proximity to skyscrapers and posh restaurants makes it a beautiful place to visit – and if you have the time, do pop by Eataly, one of London’s authentic Italian food shops.

But not before you make your way to St Helen’s Church nearby, after which St Helen’s Place is named – despite its central location, it’s one of the most secret churches in London, one of the smallest, and aesthetically very pleasing.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in South London

Hidden Courtyards in London: St Martin’s Courtyard

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Photo: BM Architects

With St Martin’s Courtyard, we’re making our way back to Covent Garden, since the magical courtyard is located right off Long Acre.

We have lots of shops nearby, including one of the biggest TK Maxx in London, where you can shop plenty of huge Sand and Fog candles, Yankee Candles and DW Home candles.

St Martin’s Courtyard and the surrounding cobblestone streets are all worth a visit, and during the spring and summer, many restaurants and coffee shops offer outdoor seating.

Two of my favorite cobbled streets in London are located off St Martin’s Courtyard, namely Rose Street and Floral Street.

Rose Street is where you’ll find one of the only Scandinavian bakeries in London, Bageriet, with incredible cinnamon buns and the tiniest interior ever.

Also, the Infinity Chamber, illuminated with thousands of LED lights that often change color, is located really close to St Martin’s Courtyard and worth a visit as it leads to more secret alleys and courtyards.

Read: The Cutest Bakeries in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Talbot Yard and George Inn

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Photo: BanksideLondon

Located in Southwark, one of London’s maritime neighborhoods, Talbot Yard is one of those secret courtyards that also offer one of the prettiest pubs in town, the George Inn.

The George Inn itself bears a long history dating back to the medieval period, and is one of the last galleried inns in London.

Talbot Yard is an otherwise classic alley, tiny, with beautiful red brick buildings, and leads to a secret garden, Talbot Yard Courtyard, where you can have lunch on the go, hidden by the surrounding buildings.

Probably one of Southwark’s best hidden gems, if I may, easy to access from Waterloo, Bermondsey and London Bridge.

Read: The Most Aesthetic Restaurants in London With Statues

Hidden Courtyards in London: St Bartholomew the Great Church

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Photo: Wikimedia

The Smithfield area of London is probably one of the most underrated areas, one of many long-forgotten neighborhoods in Barbican you’d do well to visit to learn more about the city’s history.

That’s where you’ll find Cloth Fair and the oldest house in London still standing, as well as St Bartholomew the Great, a historic church dating back to the 12th century.

If you can, do visit St Bartholomew the Great, as it’s one of London’s oldest churches, with impressive Gothic and medieval architecture.

And well, if you’re looking for hidden courtyards and churchyards, the quiet garden is a great place to write, read, or just meditate.

Read: The Best Neapolitan Pizza in Central London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Guy’s Hospital and John Keats Statue

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Photo: Tripadvisor

Guy’s Hospital, with its proximity to London Bridge Station, is very easy to access and despite its location, one of London’s hidden gems.

At least, its courtyard is, and nestled inside, a beautifully-preserved John Keats statue.

Many of London’s landmarks are located close to London Bridge, Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, but for this one, all you have to do is cross the road from The Shard.

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Photo: LauraCroshaw

Guy’s Hospital was founded in 1721 and is one of the oldest hospitals in London, affiliated with King’s College London.

The arches and stone buildings are a sight already, but when you learn that the English poet once trained to become a surgeon at Guy’s Hospital, it all suddenly makes more sense.

Think of it before you have brunch around London Bridge and make your way to another gem of architecture, Southwark Cathedral, only five minutes away.

That’s where you’ll find a Shakespeare statue in the secret churchyard, and the inside of the cathedral is simply, well, wow.

Read: The Best Coffee Shops in Shoreditch

Hidden Courtyards in London: Ching Court, Seven Dials

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Photo: TheLondonI

Back to Seven Dials, close to St Martin’s Courtyard and Covent Garden’s restaurants, you’ll find the very secret Ching Court.

Off Shelton Street, and close to Monmouth Street and Seven Dials Market near which you’ll also find Neal’s Yard, Ching Court is a quiet courtyard with impressive architecture.

Enter through gates you will miss if you’re not paying attention, and you’ll discover one of London’s best hidden courtyards, protected from the curious eye by gorgeous Georgian buildings.

Read: How to Budget for Students in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Christchurch Greyfriars Church

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Photo: The Modern House

In the City of London, not too far from the astonishing St Dunstan in the East church ruins, you will find other, even more secret ruins, those of Christchurch Greyfriars.

A medieval church dating back to the 13th century, Christchurch Greyfriars is one of the churches redesigned by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London in 1666.

Today one of London’s most magical gardens, Christchurch Greyfriars Garden is also one of the most secret – it’s pretty rare to find as many tourists here as you do at St Dunstan in the East.

Memorials, plaques and various ruins can be found there, and when you’re walking around the City of London and Guildhall, it’s a great surprise to come across Christchurch Greyfriars.

Read: How to Live in London on a Budget

Hidden Courtyards in London: Royal Courts of Justice (Law Courts)

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Photo: Wikimedia

Close to the Strand, the Royal Courts of Justice, commonly known as the Law Courts, are one of London’s secret landmarks.

The building itself was designed by George Edmund Street, and a screaming example of Victorian Gothic architecture you can also witness higher up the road, where the Strand becomes Fleet Street.

The Great Hall of the Law Courts, in particular, is a sight with the Temple Bar Memorial and stained glass windows, and the building’s proximity with Lincoln’s Inn and Temple Church makes it a must-see for history lovers.

It’s really one of those hidden courtyards you only really see if you’re interested in London’s past, although if you’d like to admire some more famous sights, Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square are within walking distance.

Read: The Best Colorful Lattes in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Pickering Place

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Photo: @rubyandb

And now for another one of the very secret, hidden courtyards of London, we’re going back to St James’s with the tiny Pickering Place.

We’re close to Blue Ball Yard, and also close to Albany Court Yard, close to Piccadilly, both other secret places to visit in Central London.

One of the highlights of this private courtyard is the White’s Club, one of London’s oldest and most exclusive gentlemen’s club.

Wrought iron railings and gas lamps add to Pickering Place’s charm, which you should visit before (or after) checking out all the posh Mayfair shops nearby.

Read: The Best Hot Chocolate in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Neal’s Yard

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Photo: SecretLdn

Undeniably one of London’s most colorful places, Neal’s Yard is a vibrant courtyard filled with tiny coffee shops, pizza places and beauty shops, including Neal’s Yard Remedies, a properly British shop.

If I may, for those looking for cheap pizza places in London, Homeslice offers really huge pizze to share that are very much worth it.

Walk around the Seven Dials neighborhood and enjoy the half hipster, half historic atmosphere, and make your way to Monmouth Street – you’ll find in this street really cute cafes to have breakfast or just a cup of coffee.

A tiny passageway characterized by a Bambi street art piece depicting Princess Diana and her children gives way to the colorful Neal’s Yard, a secret spot that has become, well, not so secret over the years.

However, the multicolor buildings are a sight, and when you’re done snapping shots and enjoying the dark brick views, pay a visit to nearby Neal Street, also very colorful, and much less famous among tourists.

Read: The Best Things to Do in Canary Wharf

Hidden Courtyards in London: Somerset House

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Photo: AccidentallyWesAnderson

Somerset House is a beautiful building located along the Strand, and a perfect place to admire Christmas decorations in London.

Built as a Tudor palace in the 16th century during the reign of Edward Seymour, Duke of Somerset, it was renovated in the 18th century with a neoclassical design.

Throughout the year, Somerset House hosts various events, with film screenings during the summer where people gather to enjoy a moment with friends in London.

Several art galleries are housed inside the Somerset House, including the famous Courtauld Art Gallery, and if you walk around the building, you will find a few restaurants and cafes with a view of the Thames.

All in all, in terms of hidden courtyards, Somerset House does fit in, provided you have never visited it – and it is, folks, a grand experience.

Read: The Best Things to Do in London Bridge

Hidden Courtyards in London: Lincoln’s Inn

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Photo: CityDays

Lincoln’s Inn in Holborn is one of the most important Inns of Court alongside Inner Temple, Middle Temple and Gray’s Inn, in which barristers are trained and called to the bar.

While we’ll be talking about quite a few of these historical buildings throughout this guide, I have to admit that Lincoln’s Inn are in my opinion one of the most magical places in London overall.

The Great Hall and the Chapel are two places you absolutely have to visit when around Lincoln’s Inn.

Plus, if you happen to pop by when the gardens are open to the public, you’ll be able to enjoy a peaceful moment with immaculate views of the surrounding buildings.

Read: The Best Free Views of London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Coal Drops Yard

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Photo: CN Traveler

Coal Drops Yard near King’s Cross station is an it shopping destination which was constructed in the 1850s and used to receive and store coal delivered to the station.

Today home to plenty of King’s Cross brunch spots and independent shops, Coal Drops Yard underwent a significant architectural renovation a few years ago which still happened to preserve its gorgeous architecture.

Interconnected bridges and dark brick make Coal Drops Yard very distinctive, and a historic yet very hipster place to hang out in.

The hidden courtyards in between the shops and restaurants make for great surprises, and will slightly remind you of those you can find around Stables Market in Camden Town.

Read: The Best Shopping Centers in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Cecil Court, Covent Garden

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Photo: Sworder

I’ve mentioned Cecil Court in Covent Garden more times than I can recall, but it provides an insight of historic and literary London off the beaten path, so here goes.

Located between Covent Garden and Leicester Square, this hidden courtyard slash alley is filled with beautiful bookshops, most of which rare or antique.

You’ll find one of the only Alice in Wonderland places of London in Cecil Court, with the bookshop Alice Through the Looking Glass, which also boasts a small museum at the back.

The entire area around Cecil Court, which also encompasses Garrick Street and King Street offers beautiful architecture.

Yet, Cecil Court, also known as the Booksellers’ Row, is one of the historic streets you can’t miss, especially if you love books!

Read: The Most Unique Shops in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: St John’s Gate and Cloister Garden

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Photo: MuseumStJohn

Associated with the Order of St John, St John’s Gate and the adjoining Cloister Garden form a historic site dating back to the Middle Ages.

St John’s Gate is located in Clerkenwell, so it’s easily accessible from Chancery Lane tube station and Holborn – again, we find ourselves in historic Holborn!

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Photo: OnTheGrid

The gate in itself is a Tudor gatehouse of architectural and historical significance, and for those looking for hidden courtyards, the Cloister Garden is one of the most secret you’ll find in London.

The onsite museum will help you understand more about the Priory of St John, and if you’d just like to enjoy the soothing garden space, why not?

We’re here in one of London’s most secret gardens, after all, and the stone and brick architecture all around does make you feel like you’ve just entered another world.

Read: The Best Shops on Oxford Street

Hidden Courtyards in London: Park Place

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Photo: SHH

Park Place in Mayfair is one of the pretty Central London streets that hides much more history than its lets on, even if the characteristic Georgian and Victorian buildings are already mind blowing.

Not a hidden courtyard per se, but definitely a hidden street located in the St James’s Conservation Area, which houses several Grade I-listed buildings such as the Brooks’ Club, and worth a visit when walking around Mayfair.

Park Place namely hides London’s smallest house at number 10, which you will miss if you don’t pay attention.

The mix of colors and architecture styles makes it a magical place to tread with your other half – Seven Park Place, one of Mayfair’s beautiful restaurants, also offers an incredible front you will want to see.

When you’re done visiting Park Place, head over to either Brown Hart Gardens, a tiny and secret garden with a clean view of Mayfair houses, or Mount Street Gardens with its beautiful church.

So many things to do in Mayfair, but these clearly are some of the poshest – and completely free!

Read: Cheap Eats in London: Where to Eat Lunch Under 5 Pounds

Secret Courtyards in London: Lancashire Court

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Photo: KnightFrank

One of Mayfair’s prettiest streets, Lancashire Court, is easily accessible from Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Street and Green Park.

The narrow courtyard is tucked away from busy Bond Street, with cobblestone pavement and floral shop windows that make for the perfect photo spot for influencers.

While most of London’s mews are located in Chelsea, Paddington, South Kensington and Marylebone, there are a good few cute mews in Mayfair too.

Some parts do feel like small villages, and you’ll find many hidden courtyards in Mayfair too, come to think of it.

And Lancashire Court is one of them, surrounded by other tiny, secret alleyways, which are filled with shops and restaurants such as Hush Mayfair, a beautiful floral cafe restaurant.

Read: The Best Things to Do in Soho

Hidden Courtyards in London: Leather Market, SE1

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Photo: Mapio

Leather Market is one of Southwark’s neighborhoods, and one of the most underrated at that, even if it is located close to Bermondsey Street and London Bridge station.

Leather Market Gardens can’t really be described as a hidden courtyard.

Still, for sure, they’re one of the most secret gardens in London, and the clear view of the Shard in the background makes them a cool place to visit.

After enjoying the beautiful architecture of Leather Market and nearby Morocco Street, maybe head on over to Leake Street Tunnel, one of Waterloo’s hidden gems, to see all kinds of incredible street art.

Read: The Best Cheap Eats in Central London

Hidden Courtyards in London: St Michael Cornhill Garden

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Photo: Wikimedia

St Michael Cornhill is another one of the most secret churches in London, located in the City of London, in which the public can attend regular worship services.

We’re right in the heart of the City of London, with Cornhill being one of the most important and beautiful streets there, but aside from offices and bustling city life, we also have the hidden gem that is St Michael Cornhill.

Parts of the church date back to medieval times, although most of it was destroyed during the Great Fire of London.

Do pay a visit to the St Michael Cornhill church itself, as it does boast a gorgeous, colorful nave with immaculate columns.

And since we’re interested in hidden courtyards here, those in search of quiet and peace will love the St Michael Cornhill Garden.

It’s a great place to write or read, beautifully-landscaped, and a perfect spot for a romantic date off the beaten path.

Read: The Best Cafes to Work in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Guildhall Yard

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Photo: TheCityofLdn

The Guildhall Art Gallery is a great place to learn more about Roman London, since its underground shows offers well-preserved Roman ruins.

The collections housed inside, mainly historical and contemporary paintings, can be see on the top floors, and provide insight on the cultural heritage of the City of London.

If there’s something you really can’t miss in front of the Guildhall Art Gallery, though, it’s the gorgeous yard.

On the left of the completely free art gallery (and on the left on the above picture), we have yet another one of London’s medieval sites, the Guildhall.

Built in 1411, the Guildhall hosts royal events as well as state visits and other international ceremonies – it is also the only stone building that survived both the Great Fire of London and the World War II Blitz.

At its bottom, you have a tiny, tiny garden (not depicted on the picture) with a couple of benches, a secret spot to relax in the City of London.

Read: The Best Candle Shops in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Eccleston Yards, Belgravia

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Photo: SecretLdn

Eccleston Yards is located in the posh – and very pretty neighborhood of Belgravia, not too far from Knightsbridge and the astonishing Harrods department store.

Another one of the hidden courtyards of London, and one of the lesser-known if you’re not used to visiting Belgravia, Eccleston Yards is features boutique shops and fitness studios, as well as a central space to relax.

Biscuiteers, one of London’s most instagrammable cafes, was already known for its Notting Hill branch, and you can also enjoy their iced biscuits and posh afternoon tea at Eccleston Yards.

Belgravia in itself is known for its beautiful Georgian architecture, and you can easily access Eccleston Yards from both Victoria and Sloane Square, which also offer astonishing buildings.

Read: The Cutest Pink Places in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: The Charterhouse Monastery, Barbican

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Photo: HouseandGarden

In the beautiful neighborhood of Barbican, you will find one of London’s oldest buildings, the Charterhouse.

Established as a Carthusian monastery in the 14th century, the Charterhouse served various roles throughout the centuries; a private mansion, a school, and an almshouse.

Those looking for hidden courtyards in London will very much enjoy a visit to the Charterhouse; while it’s not a Harry Potter location, its atmosphere will strongly remind you of the Hogwarts castle.

The Great Hall of the Charterhouse is probably one of the most incredible sights you’ll be given to experience in London, and the Chapel is another piece of history dating back to the early 17th century.

If you are willing to discover more about religion and architecture intertwined, why not make your way to St Peter’s Italian Church in nearby Clerkenwell?

Read: The Most Colorful Streets in Camden

Hidden Courtyards in London: Clifford’s Inn

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Photo: LondonUnattached

Off Fetter Lane and close to Fleet Street, in the City of London, Clifford’s Inn is another historic Inn of Court which used to play a role in the education of barristers.

We’re close to Chancery Lane, with other Inns of Court nearby, which could make for a great day discovering medieval London.

The gateway to Clifford’s Inn is the only thing that remains from the once famous inns of chancery, and is located close to the beautiful church of St Dunstan in the West.

Its beautiful interior will remind you of St Michael Cornhill, but if you’re looking for other secret churches, nearby St Bride’s Church is another must visit!

Read: The Best Charity Shops in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Paternoster Square

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Photo: TheCityofLdn

St Paul’s Cathedral might be one of the most visited monuments in London, but another square close by is worth visiting too, if only for a few pictures of the cathedral from the small Canon Alley: Paternoster Square.

Paternoster Square features a Corinthian column with a golden orb at the top, called the Paternoster Column, and there are also a few food shops, cafes and restaurants scattered around.

This is a public square I personally love visiting every chance I get, simply because I know that while St Paul’s Cathedral is famous, Paternoster Square isn’t, and is mostly visited by locals.

In any case, you’ve got here another one of those bigger hidden courtyards, and if you want to know what to do after, I’ve got two options for you:

  • The free rooftop at One New Change
  • The Reflection Garden, a tiny and secret garden with a beautifully-designed pond in the middle

Read: The Best Vegan Breakfast in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Barnard’s Inn and Gresham College

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Photo: RoyalAcademy

In Holborn, Barnard’s Inn is another one of the historic Inns of Court of London, and again, another one of those places you would miss if you weren’t looking.

Barnard’s Inn is associated with associations of barristers like Lincoln’s Inn and Staple Inn, and also linked to Gresham College which you can access at the back.

Gresham College which is also a beautiful, unusual place to visit if you get the chance – and since the college has been providing free lectures since 1597 from math to astronomy and religion, it is definitely possible.

In addition, since Barnard’s Inn was mentioned a handful of times in Charles Dickens’ ‘Great Expectations’, it is a literary gem as well – English literature lovers, that’s a place for you.

Read: Where to See Autumn Colors in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Staple Inn Chambers

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Photo: Julia Conklin

One of Holborn’s hidden gems, Staple Inn is one of the ancient inns of chancery associated with legal education and training, and the courtyard, well, a gem to visit absolutely.

We’re close to Holborn and Chancery Lane tube stations here, and not that far from Covent Garden; if you’d like to discover something new (old?), the Staple Inn buildings offer beautiful views.

The distinctive timbered facade is reminiscent of medieval London, and if you’re interested in Italian architecture, you’ll also find Sicilian Avenue closeby.

Read: The Best Harry Potter Things to Do in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Albany Court Yard

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Photo: HabituallyChic

Just off Piccadilly, you don’t only have Blue Ball Yard to write on your bucket list, but also Albany Court Yard, one of the most exclusive areas of London.

Former home of figures such as Lord Byron, Albany Court Yard is located a few minutes away from the Royal Academy of Arts, which houses beautiful collections of paintings and sculptures – and the ceiling is something to admire as well there.

In terms of hidden courtyards, one can hardly do better, with Georgian buildings surrounding the courtyard and leading to a particularly beautiful dark brick mansion.

Read: The Best Budget Shops in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Snow Hill Court

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Photo: IanVisits

If you happen to visit Christchurch Greyfriars Church Garden, a short walk will lead you to Snow Hill Court, deeper into Farringdon.

Lovers of secret churchyards, you’ll find yourself at east in Snow Hill Court, which is part of the Holy Sepulchre Church yard, also known as the Musicians’ Church.

Like St Dunstan in the East and Christchurch Greyfriars Church, the Holy Sepulchre Church suffered damage during the Great Fire of London, after which it was rebuilt.

The Holborn Viaduct on which the church is built is a historically rich road, peaceful, which provides insight on London’s past – but first, a moment in the churchyard is something quite non touristy and free to do in town.

Read: Chalcot Square Primrose Hill, London’s Most Colorful Area

Hidden Courtyards in London: Drapers’ Hall Garden

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Photo: VenueFinder

Drapers’ Hall is a historic livery hall located on Throgmorton Avenue, which I’ve mentioned in the past as it’s one of the most secret streets in the City of London.

Drapers’ Hall Garden is a private adjoining garden which can be visited by those attending events at the hall.

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Photo: PurcellUK

This means it is not public, but just in case you ever happen to attend an event at Drapers’ Hall, make sure you spend some time in the secret garden as well.

In any case, it is still a historic place to visit as the entrance to Drapers’ Hall is adorned with huge statues very much reminiscing of those you would find in Roman villas.

Gracechurch Street, close to Throgmorton Street, is an otherwise beautiful street to visit for its architecture, and hides plenty of tiny, hidden courtyards at the rear.

Read: The Best Macarons in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Cloth Fair, EC1

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Photo: Wikimedia

Famous for its historical significance, Cloth Fair is located in the City of London and named after the cloth market that was prominent during the Middle Ages in the area.

One of the oldest streets in London, Cloth Fair is where you’ll find St Bartholomew the Great church and its secret courtyard, as well as gorgeous buildings with arched doorways and hidden alleys in between.

We’re here close to Farringdon and Barbican, again – these areas are filled with historic streets and medieval sites so beautiful I can only keep recommending them.

Read: The Best Cinnamon Buns in London

Hidden Courtyards in London: Stables Market, Camden

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Photo: CamdenWatchCompany

To end this guide, I thought I’d include Stables Market in Camden Town, probably one of the most famous markets in London.

While hundreds, if not thousands of people visit Camden Market and Camden Lock on the daily, there are a few hidden courtyards all around Stables Market.

Also, when entering Stables Market itself, go upstairs and you’ll be able to enjoy really particular architecture – bright, historic, with simply beautiful shapes and colors.

When you leave Camden Market, pop by Camden Town’s colorful streets as well – many tourists think these are only located around Notting Hill, but London’s colorful atmosphere really is scattered all around town.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in Oxford Street

The Curious Traveler’s Guide to London’s Hidden Courtyards, Gardens & Historic Streets

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There you have them, all the hidden courtyards and magical gardens London has to offer – at least a great part of them!

I’ve mostly focused on the City of London for this guide, but if you’re willing to tread London off the beaten path, you’ll find there are many more hidden spots to discover.

It’s endless, and in other boroughs, you’ll also find many secret villages, lots of old streets (Shad Thames in London Bridge, for instance!), and beautiful places to discover alone or on a romantic date!

Until next time!

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Sam is a certified fashion makeup artist, a freelance writer, a blogger and a digital nomad. Since 2019, she roams around the world, from London to Rome and shares her knowledge about makeup, scented candles, travel, blogging and the digital nomad lifestyle.