As a “sufferer” of the self-diagnosed travel-bug, and being based in Dublin, London has been a go-to, quick-fix - the ultimate antidote for a dull period in work or school that won't break the bank (thank you Ryanair!). After a couple of trips, the "must-see" sights of London became a bore (one trip around the London Eye is enough!!). Here, I have compiled a digestible list of some of London's more unique offerings that won't feature on every travel blog and city-guide you see.
Having spent time trawling the internet for some new and unusual things to do in London and finding some very long lists of sights that don't quite live up to the mark, as well as exploring some quieter corners of London myself, these are some of my top recommendations for London - whether it's your first, or fiftieth visit.
Blackheath Ave., Greenwich, London
Source: forbes.com
Escape the bustling city and visit Greenwich for a stunning panoramic view across the city. Climb up to the top of the hill in Greenwich Park to the Royal Observatory and take it all in. From the top of the hill you can observe the grand architecture of Greenwich with the London skyline in the background. Admission to the park is free, of course and you can get there by rail, DLR or by the Thames Clipper for an added novelty of a boat-ride. I recommend arriving just before dusk so you can watch the city lights switch on as the sky transitions from day to night.
London is home to an endless list of world-renowned museums and galleries such as The British Museum, Museum of London and Tate Modern, to name a few. However, alongside these enormous and often overwhelming museums of grandeur, sit another long list of small, quirky museums that you’ve probably never heard tell of… until now! Here are just a few of my favourites:
Lancaster Road, Notting Hill
Source: timeout.com
Maybe I’m a little biased but as a bit of an advertising and brand fanatic this is one was a gem of a find! This museum tells the story of those household brands that you’ve grown up with and gives us an insight to consumers’ relationships with them throughout the years.
9a St Thomas Street, London
Source: oldoperatingtheatre.com
Perhaps a little gruesome. This theatre was used in the 1800s to perform operations on the patients at St. Thomas’ Hospital. The museum predates the discoveries of anaesthetics and antiseptics and so its walls hold a host of gruesome tales. If you can, time your visit around one of their weekend talks that will get into the details of the history of surgery and medicine. The museum can be visited without booking but you must book tickets to sit in on one of the talks.
1 Scala Street, London
Source: Wall Street International
Another subjectively creepy find but Pollock’s Toy Museum is one not to be missed! A collection of Victorian toys including dolls, teddy bears and puppets fill the historical building in Fitzrovia, London, right by Goodge Street Station. The museum is family run and the collection is made up of donations from family and the public as well as purchases throughout the years.
Unit 12, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall Street, London.
Source: culturetrip.com
A neon paradise hidden in a warehouse in London’s Walthamstow. This place is crammed with hundreds of neon signs lining every inch of the space. I have spent hours wandering around the warehouse finding something new with every glance. God’s Own Junkyard started with the late Chris Bracey who made signs for anything from strip clubs to Hollywood films directed by the likes of Christopher Nolan. This find is not only an exhibition space but also home to The Rolling Scones café where you can sit and marvel at the wonderful sights. Open weekends, God’s Own Junkyard is free to enter which just adds to its appeal. It’s the perfect spot to get that killer ‘gram post.
Columbia Rd., London E2 7RG
Source: columbiaroad.info
A Sunday morning spent strolling along the Columbia Road market is not to be missed. The smell of the flowers alone is enough to set you up for the week ahead (and the inevitable flight home). It’s also a chance to witness the London barrow boys in action as they pitch their prices to passers-by. If you’re looking to feel like true London hipster – this is the place for you. With 60 independent stores lining the streets from galleries, to cafés, to vintage stores. The market does get busy and bustling for the mid-day rush so if you’re looking for a calmer experience, I recommend visiting when the market opens between 8-9am, or if you’re looking for a bargain, pop by before close at around 3pm.
Kingsland Road, London
Source: Pho House London
If you’re looking for something a little more exotic or to feel like you’re further than just an hour’s flight away from home, make your way to Shoreditch’s Pho Mile. Kingsland Road is home to a wide array of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. You won’t be fine-dining by any means but that’s just part of the charm. With many of the restaurants being family-run, slap up dining you’re sure to feel like you’re transported to the streets of Saigon or Ho Chi Minh. BOYB policies seem to be wide-spread and generous. Some highlights include fresh spring-rolls, a bowl of Bun cha and some hearty Pho noodle soup. If you are yet to try the delicious delicacies of Vietnam and have no plans to travel to South-East Asia, this is a must-visit street.
More information...Just go there!
That’s it for my quick guide to London’s under-rated, under-appreciated sights and scenes. London is an incredibly diverse city with infinite things to do and see (and eat!!) - it’s not just about Buckingham Palace and afternoon tea. Now you're in town, get off the beaten track and step outside of the crowd to see a side to London that many tourists miss out on.
Enjoy your trip!