It’s no secret that London is bustling with fun and exciting attractions. This major city draws visitors from all over the world, and it’s easy to see why. Attractions such as Buckingham Palace or Piccadily can’t be found anywhere else due to their grand and distinctly British nature.
While most prospective visitors have the aforementioned places on their must-visit lists, the city is also full of hidden gems that are worth exploring. Let’s look at seven lesser known attractions to check out in London.
1. Little Venice
You don’t need to travel all the way to Italy to experience the canals that characterize the city of Venice. London’s own “Little Venice” offers a similar experience while being just a stone’s throw from Hyde Park.
This area’s gorgeous canals and waterways decorate a picturesque neighbourhood that is filled with charming waterside pubs, cafes, restaurants. Visitors can walk downstream, crossing Maida Vale and reaching Regent’s Park.
Alternatively, they can take a narrowboat to Camden Lock Market to close out the day with a bit of shopping. This attraction is unlike anything else in the city.
2. God’s Own Junkyard
If you’re on the lookout for some illuminating knick-knacks, you can’t go wrong by visiting God’s Own Junkyard. This store stocks a wide array of vintage signs and neon lights, and is tucked away inside a warehouse in Walthamstow.
If you’ve ever seen a fancy looking neon sign in a film, chances are that God’s Own Junkyard owner Chris Bracey designed them. The store has supplied neon signs for Hollywood films by notable directors such as Tim Burton and Stanley Kubrick over the decades. Consider hitting up this attraction if you want to immerse yourself in some dazzling lights.
3. Chelsea Physic Garden
Looking to surround yourself in greenery? Chelsea Physic Garden is the perfect attraction to visit. This botanical garden was established in 1673 and presently contains over 5,000 species of rare and medicinal plants gathered from around the world.
The garden is divided into distinct sections such as The Garden of World Medicine, The Pharmaceutical Garden, and The Garden of Edible and Useful Plants.
Visitors can also kick back and enjoy a nice meal in a delightful setting at the venue’s Tangerine Dream Cafe. Try visiting Chelsea Physic Garden if you want to experience some dazzling outdoor sights in London.
4. Sir John Soane's Museum
Sir John Soane’s Museum is a unique type of attraction in the city. This venue was once home to Sir John Soane, one of England’s greatest architects. This home is now considered a historical attraction and contains a variety of unique historical artifacts. This includes over 20,000 architectural drawings, paintings, and even an Egyptian Sarcophagus!
Consider visiting this attraction if you have a knack for art or a passion for exploring historical artifacts.
5. Kyoto Garden at Holland Park
If Chelsea Physic Garden didn’t satiate your lust for the outdoors, try visiting Kyoto Garden at Holland Park. This hidden gem is a gorgeous Japanese-style garden that is perfect for a bit of rest and relaxation during your day.
The garden was actually a gift from the city of Kyoto in 1991 and was meant to commemorate Japan’s long-standing friendship with Great Britain. The garden contains many traditional Japanese elements such as tiered waterfalls, a koi pond, and maple trees. It's the perfect spot to kick back and take the day off from exploring the city.
6. Jack the Ripper Museum
Jack the Ripper Museum isn’t for the faint of heart. This attraction is set up inside a historic Victorian property in Whitechapel. It tells the story of the infamous Jack the Ripper and how he preyed on the London population.
Visitors will get a chance to learn about the lives of Ripper’s victims and gather clues about his real identity. If you can stomach a few harrowing historical tales, this museum should be on your visit list.
7. My Little Panda
If you are looking to get some personalized gifts to commemorate your trip to London, consider heading down to My Little Panda at Trinity Buoy Wharf. This shop stocks a variety of sustainable products such as cutlery and kitchen accessories.
My Little Panda’s main attraction is its custom-engraving station. Visitors will get the chance to learn how to engrave messages onto gifts and take them home. Visiting My Little Panda is the perfect way to close out your London trip, so be sure to add it to your list!
