If you were to ask someone what they think of when it comes to London attractions, you can bet on them mentioning famous landmarks like Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace or the Houses of Parliament.
To be fair, you can’t really disagree with the validity of these suggestions; after all, they are some of the most iconic parts of capital. However, there’s a lot more on offer to London visitors than just the best-known tourist spots; there’s a wealth of history, culture and accommodation available drifting under the radar.
So if you are planning a trip, why not try something a little different and steer away from the usual places of interest, which will inevitably be teeming with tourists? In this post you’ll find just a few examples of unusual things to do and see in London, as well as a selection of interesting places to stay.
The View from ‘The Monument’
Constructed in the late 17th Century to commemorate the Great Fire of London, The Monument is as tall as the number of feet it is away from the area in Pudding Lane (202) where the fire is believed to have started. What you might not know is you can walk up a winding staircase inside the tower and take in the views from its gallery near the top.
Go to Mudchute Farm
Mudchute City Farm is makes for a slightly surreal day out, but great for families. Pet some of your favourite farmyard animals at this 32-acre farm plot on the Isle of Dogs, complete with stables, nursery and a fantastic café, with the iconic Canary Wharf skyline towering behind you.
The Grapes Pub
This quaint 500 year old pub backing onto the Thames not only comes with excellent drinks, celebrated fish and chips and a welcoming atmosphere, but is also a former haunt of Charles Dickens. It’s currently owned by Sir Ian McKellen, who regularly pops in for something to eat.
Night Club Museums
Get a different look at history at institutions like the V&A and the Natural History Museum who occasionally put on club-like nights with late bars and DJs. The Natural History Museum is open until 10pm on Fridays, and runs occasional special events such as sleepovers for both children and adults. These often sell out quickly so it’s well worth booking in advance.
Choose Boutique Hotels
A way to make your trip to London truly memorable is to stray away from the typical big chain hotels and accommodation, instead opting for one of the many unique, independent hotels across the city. Booking yourself into an independent hotel often results in a more stylish and unique place to stay, and frequently offer lower rates and a more bespoke service than the chain spots. If you’re having trouble finding the perfect hotel in the ideal location, use a specialist site like Chic Retreats to search for a hotel which will suit your exact needs.
So there you have it: just a few leftfield things to try on your next visit to this fantastic city.
Leave a Reply