12 Hidden Gems To Help Fill Your London Travel Itinerary
London is packed with world-famous landmarks, but beyond Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London, there’s an entire world of hidden gems waiting to be explored.
Whether it’s a quirky museum, a secret garden, or a tucked-away historical site, these 15 lesser-known attractions offer a unique way to experience the city beyond the usual tourist trail.
Eel Pie Island
Once a legendary hub for rock and roll in the 1960s, Eel Pie Island is a tiny, bohemian island in the Thames near Twickenham. It’s privately owned, but a few times a year, the local artist community opens it up to visitors. Walking its narrow pathways lined with quirky sculptures and art studios feels like stepping into another world.
The Seven Noses of Soho
A bizarre urban legend surrounds The Seven Noses of Soho, a series of sculpted noses mysteriously placed around London in the 1990s by artist Rick Buckley. Some believe that finding all seven will bring great wealth, though no one has ever confirmed spotting them all. Hunting for these noses is a fun way to explore the hidden corners of Soho and beyond.
The Hidden Roman Temple of Mithras
Deep beneath the Bloomberg building in the City of London, you’ll find the Temple of Mithras, a 2,000-year-old Roman ruin that was once a mysterious place of worship. This immersive experience includes eerie lighting, sound effects, and ancient artifacts to transport you back to Roman Britain.
It’s one of the city’s best-preserved archaeological sites, yet few tourists know about it. This tour will take you through many ancient Roman London sites.
Little Venice
Tucked away in the northwestern part of the city, Little Venice is a charming canal district filled with colorful houseboats, waterside cafés, and peaceful walkways. You can take a scenic boat ride to Camden Market or just relax by the water with a coffee. It’s a picturesque escape from London’s bustling streets.
The Hunterian Museum
Inside the Royal College of Surgeons, the Hunterian Museum is not for the squeamish. This fascinating collection features centuries-old medical specimens, including preserved organs, skeletons, and even Winston Churchill’s dentures. The museum recently reopened after renovations and is a must-see for fans of medical history.
Leighton House Museum
While most people head to the V&A or National Gallery, Leighton House Museum remains an under-the-radar masterpiece. This former home of Victorian artist Frederic Leighton is a stunning blend of Islamic, Middle Eastern, and European design, with a golden dome, intricate mosaics, and opulent rooms. It’s one of the most breathtaking interiors in London.
The Mail Rail
For over 75 years, a secret underground railway transported mail beneath London. Today, you can ride the Mail Rail, a tiny electric train that once carried letters and parcels beneath the city. The ride takes you through dimly lit tunnels and abandoned platforms, offering a glimpse into a fascinating piece of postal history.
Daunt Books Marylebone
Bibliophiles will love Daunt Books, a stunning Edwardian bookstore with oak galleries and skylights. While most people head to larger chain bookstores, this independent shop specializes in travel literature and features one of the most beautiful reading spaces in London.
God's Own Junkyard
Located in Walthamstow, God’s Own Junkyard is a neon wonderland filled with hundreds of vintage and custom-made neon signs. It’s part art gallery, part prop house, and part café, offering a surreal, Instagram-worthy experience. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking for something totally unexpected in London.
Wilton’s Music Hall
As the world’s oldest surviving music hall, Wilton’s Music Hall is a beautifully restored Victorian venue that hosts live performances in a historic setting. Its faded grandeur and intimate atmosphere make it feel like stepping back into 19th-century London. See what’s on for a unique night out.
The Attendant Café (Formerly a Victorian Toilet)
For a truly unusual coffee stop, visit The Attendant, a quirky café set inside a restored Victorian public toilet in Fitzrovia. The original porcelain urinals have been converted into seating booths, making it one of the strangest yet most charming places to grab a coffee.
The Grant Museum of Zoology
While the Natural History Museum is packed with visitors, the Grant Museum of Zoology remains a hidden gem. This quirky collection includes preserved animal specimens, skeletons, and even an entire jar of moles—a curiosity that has baffled visitors for years. It’s a dream for anyone who loves odd and fascinating natural history.
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