Every year, around 30 million people flock to the capital to soak up its diverse culture, mesmerising landmarks, drool-worthy eateries, and fascinating history.
But there are many things in the city that often go overlooked by visitors. In this blog, we’ll share 5 of London’s hidden gems to make your trip truly one-of-a-kind.
1. DNA VR
Named London’s first virtual reality arcade, DNA VR is a wonderfully immersive experience. And one that promises visitors the chance to explore outer space, be part of a zombie apocalypse, or swim in the depths of the ocean via a simple VR headset. You can choose between the VR Arcade, the VR Escape Room, Premium Free-Roaming, or Ubisoft’s VR Escape Room, all of which deliver a unique experience. Suitable for children aged 7+, this is a brilliant day out for all the family, helping you to see London in a completely new way!
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2. Abandoned Tube Stations
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Aside from Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and so on, many associate The Big Smoke with its impressive web of tube lines. Underground and overground, you can easily hop on and hop off to travel around the city. But did you know? There are many ‘forgotten’ parts of the tube network, and you can explore them thanks to the London Transport Museum’s unique tours. Why not take a peek into Churchill’s secret station, Down Street, and discover the bomb-proof headquarters where Churchill sheltered during WW2? Or see the vintage advertising posters inside the lost tunnels of Euston. If you often find yourself entangled with London’s history, there’s no better way to immerse yourself.
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3. Kyoto Garden in Holland Park
Want to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital for a few hours? London’s most well-travelled visitors may feel a certain familiarity within the Kyoto Garden in Holland Park thanks to its stunning Japanese-style landscapes. That’s because this park was a gift from Japan to Great Britain to celebrate their ongoing friendship. From the mesmerising ponds brimming with colourful koi carp to the Japanese stone lanterns and calming waterfalls, every inch of this picturesque haven inspires relaxation. You may even get the chance to see a peacock or two, as the park is famously home to several of these flamboyant birds.
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4. Painted Hall in Greenwich
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Inside the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich is a hidden paradise of unbelievable artistry – a sight the whole family will cherish. The Painted Hall was designed by Sir James Thornhill in the 18th century, and features 40,000 square feet of beautifully painted walls and ceilings. At first glance, it looks like a mesmerising display of characters. But if you look a little closer, you’ll find 200 figures of famous kings, queens, and mythological figures. Back in its day, the hall was actually used as a quiet eatery for pensioners at the Royal Hospital, but it was reopened as an attraction in 2019. We recommend joining a talk to learn as much as you can about the history of this stunning hidden gem – prepare to be amazed!
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5. Sir John Soane’s Museum
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If you’re a lover of architecture, a visit to Sir John Soane’s Museum is a must when you’re visiting London. Sir John Soane was an English architect who lived in the museum (formerly his home) almost 200 centuries ago until he died in 1837. Inside, you can see a myriad of his finest work, from handmade furniture to architectural models and paintings. It was his wish when he died that his home would be preserved as an academy of architecture. Depending on when you choose to visit, you can immerse in detailed tours, insightful workshops, or various clubs tailored to aspiring architects. Be sure to take your camera – Sir John Soane’s house truly deserves to be remembered.
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