London’s Hidden Gems part 3: The alternative guide to the Big Smoke

Whether you’re a regular London tourist or you’re visiting for the first time, it can be overwhelming to decide what to do in the city.

So, allow us to make the task easier. We’ve rounded up five of London’s hidden gems perfect for all the family!


Shoreditch Brick Lane Street Art

Street art in Shoreditch on a busy roadFor those with an appreciation for street art, Brick Lane in Shoreditch is the place to be. This famous street has been synonymous with graffiti for years and is often considered the best place in the UK to see such fantastic artistry. Why? Local artists constantly visit the vibrant area to add new pieces, which often include paste-ups and stickers.

It’s such a well-loved street that international artists aspire to make their mark on the iconic London walls. We recommend you take a wander away from Brick Lane, too, as many of the local streets also have plenty of stories to tell. And take lots of photos whilst you’re there – if you visit again, it’ll likely look completely different!

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Spitalfields City Farm

Red haired family admiring farm cowsWant a taste of the countryside in the heart of the city? It’s possible at Spitalfields City Farm! This inner-city haven is home to lots of animals, from ferrets to rabbits, goats, donkeys, and pigs, providing an opportunity for adults and kids to get up close and personal. When it’s time for a sit-down and a cup of tea, look no further than the farm’s very own Tea Hut.

Inside, you can slurp up a myriad of hot drinks, as well as tuck into locally and ethically sourced menu items. There’s even a farm shop onsite, full to bursting with fresh organic produce, nifty garden supplies, and quirky gifts. To experience a fun-filled day out the entire family will enjoy, Spitalfields City Farm is certainly one of our top picks.

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Beefeater London Gin Distillery

Cold gin and tonic drink with limes on a barFancy a tipple? The Beefeater Gin Distillery in Kennington, London, is where every splash of this famous drink is distilled, before being distributed around the globe. Gin lovers can take a 90-minute tour of the distillery, during which you’ll discover the history of the world-famous drink. You’ll also experience a guided tasting, learning about the ingredients as you go.

Then, your host will walk you to the Still House, giving you a sneak peek into exactly where their gin is made. The tour rounds off with a cheeky G&T in the bar, allowing you to relish Beefeater gin in all its glory.

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The Church of Saint Dunstan-in-the-East

London hidden gems - the Church of Saint Dunstan-in-the-East gardenIf you’re heading to The City, it’s worth checking out The Church of Saint Dunstan-in-the-East. Once a fully functioning church, a WW2 bomb destroyed its beauty, leaving only remains. Although, what’s left is certainly nothing short of incredible.

As you walk around the ruins, you’ll see stunning window arches nestled amongst a web of leaves and vines. In fact, the area has been transformed into a glorious public garden, inviting visitors to take a pew and digest its history. Consider this secluded spot a peaceful place to escape the herds of city workers.

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The Vaults (Waterloo Vaults)

Packed crowd looks towards The Vaults stageCurious to explore the disused railway arches hidden under Waterloo station? You can – via an immersive trip to The Vaults, a place where alternative art and theatre are celebrated to inspire others. Dubbed an ‘unexpected experience’, you’ll never truly know what you’re walking into.

But it promises to be undeniably imaginative and insanely fun. You can, however, explore the Leake Street graffiti tunnel instead, an incredible space founded by Banksy to celebrate artists. Whatever you choose to do, a trip to The Vaults is a wonderful opportunity to see Waterloo’s underground railway spring to life!

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