Unique things to do in London
London’s best-kept secrets revealed, discover top unique things to do in London
Explore some of London’s best kept secrets and discover a part of the capital that isn’t widely known. London’s best kept secrets are the key into the exclusive past that London has to offer, that only the locals know. So if you get time head down to some of these ‘off the beaten tourist track’ landmarks and locations for a secret slice of London.
Six Secrets of London:
1. Lighthouse at Trinity Buoy Wharf
In the borough of Tower Hamlets, London’s only lighthouse is hidden away on Trinity Buoy Wharf. No longer a functioning lighthouse, it is used as an exhibition and information centre featuring the works of Michael Faraday with the contemporary art piece, Longplayer. You can also see the Alunatime tidal powered clock and the contemporary studios at Container City.
64 Orchard Place, London, E14 0JY
If you like attractions on the water, why not try our Thames River Cruise with a hop-on-hop-off Boat Tour ticket valid for 24 hours!
2. St. Bartholomew the Great
Founded in 1123 as an Augustinian Priory, St Bart’s Church is London’s oldest church nestled in the financial heart of the City. The church is esteemed for its architecture, preaching and music, and is so special that it has even been featured in Four Weddings and a Funeral, Shakespeare in Love and The Other Boleyn Girl. Definitely worth a visit even if it’s just for the film references!
Cloth Fair, London, EC1A 7JQ
Explore the area and visit the nearby Museum of London - access to exhibitions are included with a London Pass.
3. Viaduct Tavern
Built on the site of Newgate Prison, this pub was originally founded as a gin palace in the Victorian times. Now, the Viaduct Tavern stands proud in and amongst some of London’s most popular attractions; the Monument, The Old Bailey and Smithfield Meat Market. This old pub is truly one of London’s most traditional – it even features the old period furniture and a booth for the old Victorian landlady!
The Viaduct Tavern, 126 Newgate Street, London, EC1A 7AA
Head down the road to the Monument, a mere stone’s throw away, to take in the panoramic views of the city from its viewing gallery. Entry is included with a London Pass.
4. Kyoto Garden
Within Holland Park, discover Japan in the form of lush green shrubs, running water and carp koi. This Japanese designed garden was gifted to London by a celebrated landscape gardener after the Japan Festival in 1992. Now Kyoto Garden is a sanctuary of peace and tranquillity in central London; the perfect place to take a break and escape from it all!
High Street Kensington, W8
Stroll along to Kensington Palace and scan your London Pass to gain access to into the exhibition and state apartments to admire the royal luxuries within central London.
5. Richmond Park
If you didn’t think you could get the country feel in London, think again. Richmond Park is the perfect location to experience London at its greenest. At the end of the District Line in South West London, Richmond Park is the largest royal park in London. Spanning nearly 1000 hectares it is home to around 630 deer and blossoming plantations.
Richmond, Greater London, TW10 5HS
Travel out further west and hop on a South West train (included in your Travelcard) to visit Windsor Castle for more breath-taking views of historic England.
6.Cabmens Shelters
There are thirteen green Cabmens Shelters left in London, dotted around London as Grade II listed buildings. These shelters were set up in 1875 for cab men as a sort of ‘drive-thru’ to have a warm meal without having to park their cabs. These shelters still stand around London, parked at the original taxi spots. Find them at Embankment, Hanover Square, Kensington Road and Warwick Avenue and see if you can count all thirteen!
If you head to Warwick Avenue, jump on Jason’s Original Canal Boat to chug your way along the tranquil canals of London up to Camden Lock and through Regent’s Park, included with a London Pass.