Hidden gems of London

Friday, 25 March 2022

No matter how many times you visit London, it always feels as though there is a part of the city that you’ve missed out on seeing. Although the likes of Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the London Eye are worth seeing for first time visitors, there are other - less trodden parts of London which are well worth a visit too.

Little Venice

Little Venice, Paddington

A little slice of Italy, in London! With its beautiful canals and waterways, Little Venice is a picturesque neighbourhood home to waterside cafes, cosy pubs and charming restaurants. Enjoy a canal boat ride along the river, or head to a show at the Puppet Theatre Barge - a real theatre on a canal boat.

Stop for a bite to eat at The Summerhouse , where you’ll be treated to fresh seafood and amazing views. If you’re just after a refreshing beverage, The Bridge House is a fantastic traditional British pub overlooking the canal.

Walk downstream past the elegant streets of Maida Vale and on to Regent’s Park or Camden, or follow this canal upstream and enjoy the peace and tranquility.

Nearest tube station: Warwick Avenue

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St Dunstan-in-the-East church

St Dunstan-in-the-East

Halfway between London Bridge and the Tower of London, this church was largely destroyed in the Second World War, but the beautiful ruins are now a public garden. Not only a perfect photographic opportunity, these beautiful ruins are a moment of peace and quiet amongst the hustle and bustle of the city.

Trees now grow through the windows and vines wind themselves around the walls, whilst palm trees add a tropical vibe to the space.

Take a moment to perch on one of the benches and listen to the sound of the fountains whilst taking in the beautiful sights of what is left of St Dunstan-in-the-East church .

Nearest tube station: Monument

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The Vaults

The Vaults

The Vaults is an arts platform underneath Waterloo station. The home for immersive theatre and alternative arts, and certainly isn’t the sort of place you’d stumble upon by accident.

Set in a maze of disused railway arches, the entrance via the Leake Street graffiti tunnel which was founded by Banksy is a public space where you can view the ever-changing work, night or day.

The Vaults boasts 9 different arches and is fully licensed. It is a place for the bold and unusual and has been used for fashion shows, dances, performances and more. See what’s on at The Vaults.

Nearest tube station: Waterloo

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The Churchill Arms

The Churchill Arms

It seems odd calling this one a hidden gem, when it’s one of the most photographed pubs in London, but few know the history behind it.

Situated in Kensington, The Churchill Arms was built in 1750, making it one of the most historic pubs in London. In the 1800s, Winston Churchill’s grandparents were regular visitors which led to the pub’s renaming following the Second World War.

Fast forward to now, and the pub is most famous for its incredible floral displays, which have earned The Churchill its reputation. In fact, they’re even a Chelsea Flower Show winner! Step inside and enjoy some delicious thai food and a real ale.

Nearest tube station: Notting Hill Gate

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Leadenhall Market

Leadenhall Market

Dating back to the 14th Century, and originally a meat, poultry and game market, Leadenhall Market is now home to a number of boutique retailers, restaurants, wine bars and an award-winning pub.

Situated in what was the centre of Roman London, the grandeur of the market has led to it becoming a filming location for a number of movies, including Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone where it was used to represent the area of London leading to The Leaky Cauldron pub.

Open Monday to Friday, enjoy an afternoon under the elegant Victorian roof of Leadenhall Market.

Nearest tube station: Monument

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London Cookery School

London Cookery School

If you’re looking for a fun activity to do in London, London Cookery School might be exactly what you’re after. Whether you’re a top chef, or an absolute amateur, cookery classes are a great way to spend time.

The school offers a variety of classes including Dim Sum, sushi, Vietnamese Cookery and Korean Cookery, too.

Your chef and teacher will take you through each recipe in easily followed steps, so you'll have no problem recreating the dishes time and time again back in your own kitchen!

Nearest tube station: Finsbury Park

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However you choose to spend your time in London, you’re guaranteed to find somewhere new to visit or something exciting to do.

Our intercity services run direct to London St Pancras from Sheffield, Derby, Nottingham and Leicester, so you can arrive in the capital in comfort and style.

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