London has seen a remarkable resurgence in tourism, making it one of the most visited cities globally. In 2023, London listed around 20.8 million overnight visits. This rebound highlights London’s enduring appeal and the significant economic impact tourism has on the city. No wonder tourism makes up 12% of London’s GDP.
Facts, that, as a traveler you mostly see in the way of long lines in front of pretty much every restaurant, sight, theater or monument, insane waiting hours and trouble moving around because of the crowds of tourists. This is why we went to look for the least visited and cool unknown places in London. Here’s our list of the 10 most hidden gems in London.
| Hidden Gem | Highlights | Activity |
| Little Venice | Canals, houseboats | Boat rides, picnicking |
| Leighton House | Oriental architecture | Art exploration |
| Daunt Books | Edwardian-era bookstore | Browsing books |
| God’s Own Junkyard | Neon art installations | Art, photography |
| Postman’s Park | Memorial to everyday heroes | Walks, reflection |
| Sir John Soane’s | Art collection, historical home | Museum visit |
| Epping Forest | Natural woodland area | Hiking, picnicking |
| Wilton’s Music Hall | Oldest surviving music hall | Shows, theater |
| Sky Garden | Panoramic views, rooftop garden | Views, photography |
| Eltham Palace | Art Deco and medieval architecture | Touring, garden walks |
Table of Contents
#1 Little Venice
Let’s get started with one of the most beautiful hidden places in London. A picturesque waterscape almost reminiscent of Venice: the charming Little Venice district is located near Paddington and offers an oasis of calm away from the hustle and bustle of London.
- Special features: Canals, houseboats, cafés and relaxing walks
- Activities: Boat trips along the canals, picnics by the water, café visits
- How to get there: Best reached via Paddington or Warwick Avenue tube station
#2 Leighton House Museum
The next one of our recommendations of the best secret things to do in London is actually a museum. The Leighton House Museum is the former home of the artist Frederic Leighton and an absolute highlight for art and architecture enthusiasts.
With an admission fee of about £14, this is a rather affordable option and also very suitable for rainy days. The oriental charm of the house and the ornate decorations make it an unforgettable experience.
- Special features: Oriental architecture, marble decor, oriental tiles and Leighton’s works of art
- How to get there: Near High Street Kensington station
#3 Daunt Books in Marylebone
London is known for its winding alleys and small shops and businesses on every corner. This is why we had to include this place in our list of the best hidden gems in London.
Daunt Books is a bookshop with a very special charm. Originally known for guidebooks and travel books, it is now an eclectic bookshop that is appreciated for its Edwardian architecture and beautiful interior. From the outside it seems rather normal, but inside it’s a stunning shop with a huge collection of literature, especially interesting for travelers.
- Special features: Edwardian design, focus on travel and travel literature
- Activities: Book browsing, occasional readings
- How to get there: Near Baker Street or Bond Street tube station
#4 God’s Own Junkyard
God’s Own Junkyard is a different kind of museum: a collection of neon signs and neon lights. Yes, you read that right. The colorful place in East London is a paradise for Instagram fans and ideal for anyone who appreciates creative, unconventional art.
It’s free of charge and until today still one of the best unknown places in London to take amazing pictures for your socials.
- Special features: Neon light installations, art exhibitions, photo opportunities
- How to get there: In Walthamstow, easily accessible with the Victoria Line
#5 Postman’s Park
Postman’s Park is one of the more historical hidden places to visit in London and might make you feel a little emotional. It is a small but impressive memorial to everyday heroes. The park is known for its wall commemorating people who risked their lives to save others. A thought-provoking place away from the tourist hustle and bustle.
- Special features: Memorial to everyday heroes, small green oasis in the center of London
- Activities: Quiet walks, visit to the memorial plaque
- How to get there: Close to St. Paul’s tube station
#6 Sir John Soane’s Museum
This museum is the former home of architect Sir John Soane and displays his extensive art collection. From Egyptian antiquities to paintings by Turner and Canaletto, there is plenty to discover here. So if you are interested in historical treasures, this is your place to be. And since it is not one of the main attractions, you might not even have to wait in line to get inside.
- Special features: Historic art collection, interesting architecture, free admission
- How to get there: Near Holborn subway station
#7 Epping Forest
When talking about secret places to visit in London we can’t forget about this one. Epping Forest is London’s largest woodland and ideal for nature lovers who need a break from city life. The forest offers miles of walking trails, ancient trees and a variety of wildlife.
- Special features: Trails, picnic facilities, nature experiences
- Activities: Hiking, cycling, picnicking, wildlife watching
- How to get there: Slightly out of town, but easily accessible with the Central Line to Epping station
#8 Wilton’s Music Hall
Wilton’s is the oldest surviving music hall in the world and today it offers a program of theater, music and film. This is truly one of the best hidden spots in London with a historic ambience and charming atmosphere. They are incomparable and a real insider tip for culture fans.
- Special features: Historic music hall, impressive architecture, diverse cultural program
- Activities: Shows, theater performances, music events
- How to get there: Close to Tower Hill Station
#9 Sky Garden
In our opinion, when it comes to cool hidden places in London, the Sky Garden is the clear winner. It is not completely unknown, but it is a wonderful insider tip for anyone who wants to enjoy London from above. For free!
The garden on the roof of the “Walkie-Talkie” building offers a breathtaking view over the city and a green oasis in the middle of the clouds. We know, it should be rather easy to get inside but we would still recommend you book in advance to be on the safe side.
- Special features: Breathtaking view over London, free entry, indoor garden
- How to get there: Near Monument Station
#10 Eltham Palace
This is one of London’s most special hidden gems to be honest. Eltham Palace is a rare example of Art Deco architecture and a former palace with beautiful gardens. Visitors experience an exciting mix of medieval and modern and a quiet alternative to London’s more famous palaces.
- Special features: Mixture of art deco and medieval architecture, historic furnishings
- Activities: Sightseeing, garden tour
- How to get there: Eltham tube station, then bus or cab
Hidden But Not So Hidden Gems in London
Hidden gems in the city of London are hard to find. That is because the city simply is so popular, that people have discovered quite a lot of its sights. However, these not so hidden gems we found offer a unique insight into diverse and unexpected London.
From historic palaces and verdant woodlands to creative museums and hidden bookshops, there’s a place here to inspire and enchant everyone. In case you have anything to add or know some more hidden places with lesser crowds, please let us know in the comments.
