A local’s guide to the best hidden gems in London, from secret crypts to unique churches, wonderful street art areas, historical shops and much more!
You may be living in London, or you may be like me, ultra-prepared before even visiting London for the first time.
You may already have seen the likes of Oxford Street, Regent Street, Covent Garden and Soho.
Did you know, though, that there are many hidden gems in Oxford Street, Soho and Carnaby Street?
Do you know about all the secret sculptures, like Earthing in Aldgate, or repurposed churches that now make for wonderful cafes and shops?
Whether you’re planning one day in London, two days, three days, or ten days, there comes a time when you’ll want to see something fresh and new.
Or fresh and old, if you’re into historical sites like the ruins of St Dunstan in the East, or secret gardens like the Reflection Garden at St Paul’s.
Still, one thing’s for sure: you’re tired of seeing the same famous landmarks and would really, really like to spice up your outings.
Well, today’s your day!
I’ve rounded up here all the secret spots I know of in London, from historical buildings to unexpected crypts and wonderfully unique shops.
The Best Hidden Gems in London, Unusual and Secret Places
Over time, I’ve mentioned quite the handful of unique experiences in London, even if, to be truthful, visiting London is an experience in itself.
Once you’ve gone over the famous spots like Brick Lane’s street art and Oxford Street’s shops, you find yourself wanting more.
In this guide, I wanted to share repurposed churches, disused stations, secret gardens, but also unique shops and cafes I didn’t know of before living in London.
If you love adventure, buckle up, because there’s really no telling when you’ll come back home (or to the hostel).
Unique Things to Do in London: Kensal Green Cemetery and Catacombs
Kensal Green Cemetery is one of the Magnificent Seven, and the first cemetery in London open to all regardless of religious or financial background.
Its catacombs make for one of the most peaceful and creepiest spots in town, and from science to architecture, you’ll find many notable figures buried in the Kensal Green Cemetery.
Unusual Places in London: St Pancras Caryatids at St Pancras New Church, Euston Road
St Pancras New Church is a small yet impressive church located on Euston Road, and well worth a visit.
The Anglican parish church was completed in 1822, and you will find elements of Greek Revival architecture that range from Greek-style decor to the Caryatids.
The St Pancras Caryatids are replicas of original female-shaped statues that can still be found in the Acropolis Museum, and one of them can be spotted at the British Museum as well.
Read my guide to the St Pancras New Church on Euston Road to discover its beautiful caryatids, sculptures and secret garden.
Most Secret Places in London: Crystal Palace Subway, South East London
The Crystal Palace Subway was used until 1954 and was then abandoned, notably after the fire that ravaged Crystal Palace in 1936.
The Victorian vaulted ceiling and the exquisite cream and orange brickwork can be spotted from the park, and if you walk around Crystal Palace Park, you’ll find not only a life-size maze, but also huge dinosaur statues.
Hidden Gems in London: Greyfriars Christ Church, City of London
The Greyfriars Christ Church was destroyed in the Blitz, during WWII, and the city decided not to rebuild it.
Now, like St Dunstan in the East, it’s been turned into a secret garden, not too far from St Paul’s, with benches and greenery perfect for a moment spent writing or reflecting.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Temple Church & Inner Temple Gardens
Consecrated in the 12th century, Temple Church, easily accessible from Fleet Street, has remained utterly well-preserved and only costs a few pounds to enter.
There, you will find a handful of secret courtyards and gardens, including Elm Court, one of my favorite places in the city.
Elm Court, with its beautiful architecture, is a great spot to visit if you want peace and quiet, with a globe sculpture in the middle that says:
Make Time, Save Time,
While Time Lasts.
All Time is No Time
When Time is Past.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Host Cafe, St Mary Aldermary, City of London
Located close to St Paul’s and the Millennium Bridge, Host Cafe is one of the secret church cafes London offers almost jealously.
You don’t have to pay to visit the church, but I definitely recommend a slice of the delicious carrot cake Host Cafe bakes up in the creamiest way.
Most Secret Places in London: Lesnes Abbey Ruins
Located near Abbey Wood Station in South East London, the ruins of Lesnes Abbey belong to an abbey founded in 1178 and later dissolved by Henry VIII.
Parts of the church are still visible today, and if you’re one to love medieval sites, Lesnes Abbey is a place to have on your bucket list.
Most Secret Places in London: Aberfeldy Street, Poplar
Aberfeldy Street in Poplar is one of London’s most colorful streets, and yet, almost only locals ever pop by; we’re in a really residential area.
Aberfeldy Street was not only repainted to reflect East London’s industrial past in textile, but you’ll also find a few street art pieces and murals around it.
Read my guide to Aberfeldy Street in Poplar to discover its patterns, street art, and learn about this secret spot.
Unique Things to Do in London: Poplar Union Cafe, Regent’s Canal
Poplar Union is located along Regent’s Canal, and when you sit on their terrace, you can see the Canary Wharf skyscrapers in the distance.
Poplar Union is more than a classic coffee shop.
Yes, the cinnamon buns and apple cakes are delicious, as are their cups of chai latte.
But they also have events, performances and workshops going on throughout the year, and sitting down to write for a bit or just lose yourself in the chatter is something I love doing.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Brick Lane Car Park, Sclater Street
Brick Lane is undeniably one of the best street art neighborhoods in London, from Fashion Street to the actual Brick Lane.
Near Brick Lane, in the cark park on Sclater Street, you’ll find a full wall with lots of magazine pages, dolls, and various decor that just, beautifully, doesn’t make sense.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Abney Park Cemetery
Abney Park Cemetery in Stoke Newington, was founded in 1840 as one of the Magnificent Seven Victorian Cemeteries of London.
You’ll walk past wonderful Gothic architecture and, like all the Magnificent Seven, Abney Park Cemetery doubles as a park.
Afterwards, do visit the village-like Stoke Newington for independent shops, cafes and winding streets.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Camden Passage, Islington
Camden Passage is one of the prettiest streets in London, and rather known to tourists who rarely venture outside of Central London.
In Camden Passage, you have some really cute coffee shops (and Redemption Roasters is also located really close if you need to find a study cafe).
On top of that, you’ll find there local grocery shops, vintage markets… and even some really cool street art!
Best Hidden Gems in London: Muswell Hill Views and Architecture, North London
On one side of Muswell Hill, you have Finchley, and on the other side, Highgate, Islington, Angel, and then King’s Cross.
It is to me one of the best hidden gems in London, because you can have amazing free views of London from Muswell Hill.
The architecture is a mix of Victorian and Edwardian, and the whole of Muswell Hill just really makes you feel like you’re in one of the cutest village areas in London.
Even one of the restaurants, Miller & Carter Steakhouse, boasts a crazy stunning architecture from the outside!
Most Secret Places in London: Cloth Fair and St Bartholomew the Great Church
Cloth Fair, St Bartholomew the Great Church and the St Bartholomew the Great Gate are all completely free historical sites you can admire in the city.
41-42 Cloth Fair is the oldest house in the City of London, one that has survived the Great Fire of London and the WWII Blitz.
St Bartholomew the Great church and gate are medieval sites, too, and all three are located in the Smithfield neighborhood, one of the oldest areas of London.
Most Secret Places in London: Redemption Roasters, Islington
Earlier in this guide, I told you about Redemption Roasters in Islington, which lies close to Camden Passage.
Beyond their incredible carrot cake, what caught my attention is their magical basement, which gives way to a secret garden.
The walls, coated with white Greek-inspired sculptures, are the main attraction in this instagrammable cafe, if you want my opinion.
Read here my review of Redemption Roasters, Islington, to discover its secret basement, its atmosphere, and my thoughts about the coffee and cake.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Neal’s Yard Covent Garden
A beautiful stencil street art piece depicts late Princess Diana with her two sons right at the entrance of Neal’s Yard.
We’re close to Monmouth St and Seven Dials Market, and the tiny shopping area houses a few shops and cafes, and even some poetry on the walls on the other side of the yard.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Stephan Balkenhol Couple Statues
The two Stephan Balkenhol statues at One More London represent a woman and a man who seem to be a couple.
They were made out of wood, and both face London Bridge Station and The Shard – you have to look up to spot them.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Nymph Statue Mayfair
One of the most beautiful statues in London is the Nymph statue designed by Italian sculptor Emilio Greco.
Gifted from Italy to the UK, this statue has been in the same spot for half a century, and is located right in the middle of Mayfair, on Carlos Place.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Mount Street Gardens
Mount Street Gardens, which houses the Church of the Immaculate Conception, is located really close to the Nymph statue in Mayfair, and really feels like a slice of peace in the heart of London.
It’s a really quiet place, so if you’re looking for good places to read in London, write, or just relax, there are plenty of benches at Mount Street Gardens.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Timothy Oulton Tottenham Court Road
Timothy Oulton on Tottenham Court Road is a furniture and homeware shop, but it looks and feels like an art gallery.
They even sell a replica of the Apollo capsule turned into a lounge, whose interior features Venus!
I love popping by to see stacks of books, old typing machines and wonderfully stylish pieces of furniture: we’re minutes away from Tottenham Court Road Station, and yet, it feels like another world.
Most Secret Places in London: St Pancras Church Gardens, City of London
St Pancras Church Gardens is one of the City of London’s secret gardens, and one that stands in lieu of a church destroyed centuries ago.
With its engraved wooden benches, St Pancras Church Gardens is a mix of arty and historical, in the heart of the City, and one of the quietest places to write in London, or just reflect.
Find here my guide to St Pancras Church Gardens in the City; an unexpected garden filled with carved benches and medieval sculptures.
Best Secret Things to Do in London: Colorful Streets in Camden & Notting Hill
You may be aware of some of the colorful streets in Notting Hill, but do you know about the ones you can find in Camden and Kentish Town?
Walk around Falkland Road and Leverton Street in Kentish Town, Bonny Street and Kelly Street in Camden Town, and you’ll find colorful rows of houses.
In the Notting Hill area, Farm Place, Farm Street, Callcott Street, Portobello Road and Lancaster Road are other really colorful places you shouldn’t miss if you like brightly-colored houses.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Herd of Hope in Spitalfields, East London
The artists behind the Herd of Hope in Spitalfields, Gillie and Marc, are the same artists who designed the Wild Table of Love which used to populate Paternoster Square.
21 elephant statues are scattered all around Spitalfields, and each represents a real elephant who has been separated from its mother.
You can find the statue of the mother elephant right in the middle of Brushfield Street, a street really close to Liverpool Street Station and the Polo Bar cafe.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Old Eagle Pub Simpsons Mural, Kentish Town
Located on Royal College St, between Camden Town and Kentish Town, you have a pub called the Old Eagle that boasts a Simpsons mural on one side.
The mural was so painted that you can sit on the electrical box below and it will seem like you’re sitting on the couch.
Really a cool hidden spot if you’re near Kentish Town!
Unusual Places in London: Spriggan Sculpture, Parkland Walk, North London
The Parkland Walk follows an abandoned railway line which closed in the 70s, and the Spriggan sculpture is not the only folkloric reminder you’ll find, as there are other art pieces located along the walk.
You’re here on a natural walking and cycling path close to Crouch End and Finsbury Park in North London, but if you’re into disused stations and railways, Parkland Walk is great to walk along.
Unique Things to Do in London: Execution Dock, Wapping
Execution Dock in Wapping is a historical location that is basically borderline creepy – and perfect, really, if you’re ever after abandoned places in London.
The dock was used to execute pirates and maritime criminals in the 17th and 18th century, and today, you can find the Prospect of Whitby pub right behind.
Hidden Gems in London: Burlington Arcade, Piccadilly, Central London
Parallel to Bond Street, which hosts some of the most magnificent luxury shops in London, Burlington Arcade is stunning, and even more so at Christmas.
From shoe shops to jewelry, you’ll find everything you need here in terms of presents and treats – or just beautiful sights just minutes from Piccadilly and Green Park stations!
Unusual Places in London: Carrie Reichardt’s House, Chiswick
One of the cutest villages in London, Chiswick offers pretty bookshops, small streets and a laidback vibe that’s very appreciated when you commute every day.
Carrie Reichardt’s house is, well, the mosaic house of a renowned British ceramist and artist, known for her socially and politically engaged work, which shows in the words you can find on her house: ‘I’m an artist your rules don’t apply.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Young Dancer Statue in Covent Garden
Very close to the Royal Opera house, on Broad Street, you have a statue of a young ballerina.
This is one of my favorite hidden gems in London, simply because the dancer statue echoes the ballets you can see at the Royal Opera House.
The young ballerina statue has been around since 1988, and is the work of a sculptor named Enzo Plazzotta.
While this is one of the most famous of his works, you can see other statues of his around London, my favorite being the Homage to Leonardo in Belgrave Square.
Read: The Best Free Quiet Places to Study in London
Hidden Gems in London: Leadenhall Market, City of London
Not much of a hidden gem for locals, Leadenhall Market is still a sight.
I always feel like I get lost every time I pay it a visit, but if there’s one place I never miss, it’s Aux Merveilleux de Fred.
Inside Leadenhall Market, you have a number of shops and restaurants as well as Roman ruins (!), and you can access it via Gracechurch Street or the tiny passageways all around it.
Hidden Gems to Visit in London: Sculpture in the City, City of London
In the City of London, not too far from Fenchurch Street and Bishopsgate, all throughout the year, you can find an art trail.
Called Sculpture in the City, it offers plenty of different sculptures of all kinds: the one above is The Granary, sculpted after a traditional English grain store.
Best Hidden Gems in London: St Alphage Church Ruins, City of London
Found near the Barbican Centre and St Giles Cripplegate, a beautiful City of London church, still stand the ruins of the medieval St Alphage church.
Tucked between the skyscrapers of the City of London, the ruins hide another spot; the secret Salter’s Garden, where you’ll be able to see ruins of the Roman Wall.
Most Secret Places in London: Highgate Cemetery
Highgate Cemetery is easily accessible from both Muswell Hill and Islington, and filled with Gothic and Victorian architecture, stunning sculptures, and tombstones of famous figures, including Karl Marx.
The West side provides more nature and calm than the East side, and while it’s not free to enter, it’s one of the best things to do in North London if you’re into art and nature.
Secret Things to Do in London: Temple Rooftop
From the Temple rooftop, close to Embankment, you can see the Tate Modern and The Shard – walk something like 15-20 minutes, and you’re at Big Ben and Westminster Abbey.
This elevated terrace, which always showcases art installations of all kinds, is completely free to enter, and while it’s not as high as Sky Garden, Horizon 22, or The Garden at 120, it’s still a sight.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Leicester Square Sculpture Trail
The Leicester Square area is famous for its cinemas, and few people manage to see all the sculptures from the movie-themed Sculpture Trail.
About a dozen sculptures depict the Paddington Bear, Mr Bean, Mary Poppins, Charlie Chaplin or Bugs Bunny, along with other more hidden sculptures up high like Batman on the roof of the Odeon cinema, or Wonder Woman in a nearby street.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Bela Bartok Memorial, South Kensington
Next to South Kensington Station, you have the Bela Bartok memorial, yet another one of the most beautiful statues in my opinion.
Bela Bartok is one of the most famous composers of the 20th Century, originally from Hungary, known for mixing different genres, including folk elements – he is considered an innovator in terms of music.
A short walk away, you have Ben’s Cookies for some of the most decadent cookies in London, and the three most famous free museums in the city; Science Museum, Natural History Museum, and V&A Museum.
Most Secret Places in London: Mark Street Gardens
Mark Street Gardens is located in the heart of Shoreditch.
From Shoreditch High Street station, take Luke Street and you’ll also walk through beautiful streets while on the way.
Mark Street Gardens offers everything you may be wishing for: a pergola, pure nature, Gothic architecture, and quiet.
You’re close to all the Shoreditch markets, all the cute cafes with colorful latte, and you’re also here in one of the quietest places in London if you want to be left in peace.
Most Secret Places in London: Lincoln’s Inn Chapel, City of London
Lincoln’s Inn Chapel is situated very close to Fleet Street.
Both belong to the medieval area where the Great Fire of London started in 1666, and you have many different Wren churches there.
The detailed columns below Lincoln’s Inn Chapel are architecturally wonderful, and the Old Square around Lincoln’s Inn chapel is curated, with stunning dark-brick buildings and manicured lawns.
Unusual Places in London: Tivoli Corner, Bank, City of London
The Tivoli Corner, close to Bank Station, was dedicated to the People of London.
Seeing that type of Neoclassical architecture in London is always something I appreciate because I’ve seen it countless times while living in Rome.
If you, like me, hate Bank mainly because of the atrocious change between the Bank and Monument stations, you’re going to change your mind with this one.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Shakespeare’s Statue in Shoreditch
In New Inn Broadway, very close to Shoreditch High Street station, you have a statue of Shakespeare; his plays used to be performed in the Theatre of London, in Shoreditch.
Hence the statue, and the Romeo & Juliet mural in Shoreditch, which faces the Shakespeare statue.
It’s not the only one you’ll find in London, as there is another one in the backyard of Southwark Cathedral – although they are in different positions.
Hidden Gems in London: The World Reimagined Globes (Around Town)
The World Reimagined is a national educational project which aims at informing about the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
All across the UK, you can find 103 of these World Reimagined globes, often in places you wouldn’t expect them (isn’t that the goal of street art?).
I found this one near Borough Market, but there are literally dozens in London that make for a really artsy day out!
Most Unusual Places to Visit in London for Free: Cafe in the Crypt, Trafalgar Square
The Cafe in the Crypt is located in St Martin in the Fields church, really close to Trafalgar Square and National Gallery.
From bare brick to vaulted ceilings and arched passageways, it’s a great cafe slash restaurant to visit, bustling with locals, and an unusual spot for events, concerts, and workshops.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Orange Yard Soho
Orange Yard is small street is adorned with some beautiful art with an orange tree, and makes for a really cool photo spot when you’re in Central London.
All around, you have lots of beautiful bookshops, and nearby, the Outernet at the Now Building, which provides a completely free immersive experience.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Vauxhall Bridge
Vauxhall Bridge is a curious sight you wouldn’t expect to see in London.
There are plenty of really beautiful bridges in the city, but this one is peculiar in that you will find there a miniature replica of St Paul’s Cathedral.
This miniature cathedral is surrounded by eight huge female statues which were designed in 1909.
Like those near Tivoli Corner at Bank, each statue is an allegory of an art or a value; agriculture, engineering, science, fine arts, pottery…
The one statue which represents architecture is the one holding St Paul’s Cathedral – going full circle.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Sculptures at Bank, City of London
Around Princes Street at Bank, you’ll find four Roman-inspired sculptures moulded on the outside of the Natwest Bank.
They were made by Charles Doman and are allegories for Security, Prosperity, Courage and Integrity.
Very Neoclassical, like the rest of the Bank area, and not unlike the gorgeous sculptures in Rome I love so much when I live there.
Most Secret Places in London: Crystal Palace Park Dinosaurs and Maze
The Crystal Palace dinosaurs are located around a lake within Crystal Palace Park, along a Heritage Trail; if you’re visiting London with kids, you might want to jot that one down.
The Crystal Palace Park Maze is another must-visit spot; the type of traditional maze you see in movies.
Don’t miss the Crystal Palace Subway, a ghost station and wonderful abandoned place complete with vaulted ceilings!
When you get tired of walking around, you can easily walk to West Norwood and discover vintage shops and secret cafes no one talks about but locals.
Most Secret Places in London: Wallace Collection, Marylebone
In Marylebone, you have Hertford House, a townhouse that hosts a world-famous art collection, the Wallace Collection.
It reflects life in the 18th and 19th centuries, with an array of paintings, ceramics, sculptures, furniture armory… and works by the likes of Velazquez, Rubens and Rembrandt.
Whenever it rains in London and you’re looking for a new, fresh spot to dream and marvel at art techniques, the Wallace Collection is it.
Unusual Places to Visit in London for Free: Tower Hamlets Cemetery
The Tower Hamlets Cemetery is part of the Magnificent Seven Victorian cemeteries, which Highgate Cemetery is also part of.
This one’s located just 5/10 minutes away from Mile End Station in East London, and offers peace, calm, lots of nature (it’s a natural reserve!) and beautiful sculptures.
Most Secret Places in London: Exchange Square, Liverpool Street
Exchange Square is a secret garden behind Liverpool Street, which houses the Venus of Broadgate and pieces of the Broadgate Art Trail such as the Hare in a Hat and the Commuters sculpture.
There are many secret gardens in the City of London, but ones where fountains glide onto one another, with vibrant lawns and a view on the departing trains at Liverpool Street Station?
Not that many.
Most Secret Places in London: Reflection Garden, City of London
The Reflection Garden, which faces St Paul’s, is set on the grounds of a now-demolished church, and is one of London’s best kept secrets.
There are a few benches to have a picnic, a chat or a read, and a couple of minutes away, One New Change offers a free rooftop, too, on top of the shopping center, with an even closer view of St Paul’s.
Unique Things to Do in London: St Dunstan in the East, City of London
St Dunstan in the East is one of the most unusual places to visit in London for free, especially if you’re traveling to London for the first time.
Damaged in the Great Fire of London in 1666, it was rebuilt by Christopher Wren – one of the most famous English architects, who notably designed St Paul’s Cathedral.
The Blitz in WWII largely destroyed St Dunstan in the East a second time, and at this point, the City of London decided to use the space as a garden.
Most Unusual Places to Visit in London for Free: St Katharine Docks, Central London
St Katharine Docks, close to Tower Bridge, is a historic and picturesque marina which literally offers some of the prettiest views in London, alongside many restaurants and breakfast spots.
These also offer the perfect seat to admire the sunset in London.
And, if you keep walking, you’ll soon reach other maritime neighborhoods of the city, including Wapping and Shadwell.
Most Unusual Places to Visit in London for Free: Guildhall Roman Theatre
One of the most interesting free museums in London, the Guildhall Art Gallery offers paintings, sculptures (including a bust of Shakespeare), and in the basement, Roman ruins.
We’re close to other hidden spots of the City of London, like the church ruins turned garden of Greyfriars Christ Church, and a short walk away, the Blackfriars Bridge gives us views of St Paul’s and a way to the other side of the Thames river.
Best Hidden Gems in London to See: Mary Queen of Scots Statue, Fleet Street
In Fleet Street, at numbers 143-144, you’ll find a statue of Queen Mary of Scots.
You can find more information about the story of this Queen Mary statue in Fleet Street and about the building in general, as it does have an interesting story.
Not too far from the Queen Mary of Scots statue, which measures over two meters, you will find Inner Temple, Elm Court and Temple Church, as well as Somerset House (with its ice skating rink at Christmas!) a bit further.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Henry Poole Female Sculptures on Milford Lane, Aldwych
On Milford Lane, almost at the crossroads with Aldwych and close to the Strand, you will find this sculpture of a female bust.
Created by Henry Poole, it accompanies two other female busts down the street.
Over a century old, these are the only remaining statues of many more that used to decorate the United Kingdom Provident Institution.
Best Hidden Gems in London: Coffee Academy and Brand Academy, Oxo Tower
Coffee Academy is one of my absolute favorite cafes in London Bridge, if only to order a delicious hot chocolate and sit on one of their two tables for people-watching.
As for Brand Academy, which Coffee Academy belongs to, I do think it’s another one of the best hidden gems in London.
It’s a unique concept store perfect if you’re looking for quirky things to buy in London.
Jellycat plushies, really cute candles, cool stationery, plants, scratch-off world maps and even perfume – there’s everything and more there.
Hidden Places to Visit in London: Hay’s Galleria London Bridge
Hay’s Galleria is a historic gallery which used to be called Hay’s Wharf, and exists since the middle of the 19th Century.
The Navigators shop installed in the middle of Hay’s Galleria reminds us of the ancient use of the old warehouse, which was to distribute tea, coffee and the such from the port of London.
During the summer, it’s normal to see Hay’s Galleria decorated with flowers, while during Christmas, beautiful lights illuminate the gallery.
Best Secret Things to Do in London: Covent Garden Infinity Chamber
There are quite a few neon places in London, but the cheapest (since it’s free) is the Infinity Chamber in Covent Garden.
The LEDs change color according to the time of the year, and you can find the Infinity Chamber either completely white or rainbow-colored.
Located in Conduit Court, it’s one of the coolest instagrammable places in London, and when you walk through it, you will reach Floral Street, which leads to none other than the incredible Bageriet bakery.
Most Secret Places in London: Traffic Light Tree, Canary Wharf
About 15 minutes on foot away from Canary Wharf station, you will find the Traffic Tree Light.
This is definitely one of the most unusual sights in London.
There’s not really much to do around except for the Poplar Marina when you still have daylight, but in my experience, the Traffic Tree Light is a sight best experienced at night.
Other Secret Places to Visit in London
- The Garden at 120: Located close to the Sky Garden, the Garden at 120 offers plenty of greenery and views from the 15th floor. After enjoying the sights, pop by the Gracechurch St TK Maxx for new discounted clothes, scented candles, and affordable makeup bits.
- Hampstead Heath Ponds: perfect to chill with friends or enjoy time on a date, Hampstead Heath, its pergola and ponds are a must-visit destination if you’re visiting London in the summer, especially if you’re looking for swimming spots.
- London Fields: a quaint village inside London with a stunning weekend market, Broadway Market, a park, and a lido
- Chislehurst Caves: man-made caves and tunnels accessible within 25 minutes by train from London Bridge or Charing Cross
- Granary Square: just behind King’s Cross and St Pancras, this hidden square offers water games and beautiful lights, Christmas decorations, views on Regent’s Canal, as well as plenty of shopping opps at Coal Drops Yard
- Isabella Plantation: a beautiful garden in Richmond that displays incredible colors during the spring, summer and fall
- Painted Hall at Old Royal Naval College: a hall that mixes baroque art with historical and mythical scenes, and will remind you of Rome’s palaces and churches
- Culpeper Community Garden: a community-managed garden filled with herb gardens, flower beds and vegetables close to Highbury and Islington and Angel
- Fulham Palace: a beautiful palace built around the 11th century located in South West London, free to visit and complete with a botanical garden, an orchard and manicured landscapes
- Walthamstow Wetlands: one of Europe’s largest urban wetland reserves in Europe perfect for birdwatching and spotting foxes, amphibians, and waterfowl
- Belgrave Square: a quiet, posh square close to Knightsbridge and Harrods, home to various embassies and host to the Enzo Plazzotta ‘Homage to Leonardo’ sculpture
- Langley Park: located in County Durham just outside London, the park is home to the Temple Gardens, with colorful rhododendrons and breathtaking nature – perfect if you’re looking for Japanese gardens and lakes
- Wilton’s Wapping: one of the oldest surviving music halls in the world, Wilton’s is now a Grade II-listed building which you can visit for some opera and dance shows
- Eltham Palace and Park: located in Greenwich, this is a medieval palace with an Art Deco mansion that used to serve as a royal residence for medieval kings and queens of England
The Best Hidden Gems in London, Unusual and Secret Places
You’ll hopefully have found here dozens of new hidden gems to discover in real life when you’re visiting London 🙂
If you’re looking for something a bit different, more historical or other kinds of secret spots, you may want to read this next: