Gems in London

When most people mention living or even visiting London, what are the most common things that come to mind? It will most likely be popular tourist attractions such as Big Ben, The London Eye, Buckingham Palace, and possibly even Harrods. However, there are many other beautiful hidden gems throughout London that many people tend to miss. Contact us to learn more about london flat to rent

So, with that being said, what are some of these hidden gems, and how can you find them? Here is a list of just a few hidden gems that are worth checking out while you are out and about in the beautiful city that is London:

1. Little Venice

Little Venice is worth the stop if you are looking for a small glimpse of Italy while in London. Between the café boats, colorful canals, and little tea rooms, what more could you want? Many of the boats that roam the water also serve as a café themselves, so, you can kill two birds with one stone and have afternoon tea on the water. I mean, can it get any more picture-perfect than this? I think not. Little Venice also serves as a detour walking tour from the London Zoo. Therefore, you will likely see a few animals as you stroll through the colorful canals. Additionally, the Rembrandt Gardens are also adjacent to Little Venice and would make another great detour while exploring the city. Overall, Little Venice is a dreamlike hidden gem that somehow possesses its hidden gems. Do yourself a favor, and be sure to stop by.

2. Camden Market

When it comes to Camden Market, it might not be a hidden gem exactly, as it is undoubtedly one of the most famous and talked about markets. Nonetheless, it is still missing from the list of great things to do in London. This is a perfect second item on this list, as Camden Market is not too far from Little Venice. Camden Market is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm though hours may vary from business to business, so be sure to read up on the shops and businesses you would like to stop by before making your way down to this gem. If you find yourself visiting Camden Market, you might as well take a walk and discover London’s Camden Town, an alternative musical history tour. Yet again, the gem that is Camden Market manages to also hold hidden gems within itself.

3. Saint Dunstan in the East

If you are a medieval church fan, it is safe to say you will enjoy the sight of Saint Dunstan in the East. While this church had been partially destroyed in World War II, what remains are a series of beautiful walls that have found themselves to have been incorporated into a garden. Since this hidden gem has somehow been a well-maintained secret, it is a quiet and tranquil escape for the Londoners who know about it.

4. The Painted Hall

The Painted Hall was painted by James Thornhill between the years 1707 and 1726 and is located just inside The Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich. Though this painted hall now serves as a hidden attraction in London, it has lived many lives before this.

5. Neal’s Yard

This is a personal favorite on this hidden gem list. Regrettably, many people consider London to be a gloomy, grey city. The beautiful hidden gem of Neal’s Yard begs to differ. Not only is the small alley of Neal’s Yard incredibly eye-catching with its colorful buildings and beautiful wallflowers, but it also holds a few secret bookstores and quiet, quaint tea shops and cafes. While this space seems small, there is still plenty to do and plenty to see when you stumble through this wonderfully hidden alley. Realistically, you can spend your entire day here. It is a productive day well spent with a morning coffee, afternoon lunch, and a walk through the bookshops. Lastly, it is important to note that Neal’s Yard is conveniently placed near Covent Garden, another beautiful sight in London.

6. The Vaults

To some people, the vaults are also known as the Waterloo Vaults. This may be because they are located just under the famous Waterloo Station down in Central London. This colorful graffiti tunnel will surely take your breath away at first sight. If you are an art lover, this hidden gem is worth visiting. Since the vaults are ever-changing, you may even be fortunate enough to stumble across an artist working on their newest work of art to add to the magnificent graffiti wall. After you stroll through the vaults, you can also stop in at the nearby pub, which is conveniently named Vaulty Towers. As you may have already guessed, this pub is also a hidden gem as it holds its unique décor and a delicious variety of drinks and local food.

7. Hidden Bar – The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town

What is a hidden gems list without a hidden bar? While secret bars are extremely popular throughout London, they are easy to miss. That is, since they are, well, hidden. When you first find yourself at The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town, you will find a diner with an old fridge in the back. This fridge is what will take you into the hidden bar. It is important to note that they may ask you for a password to enter this hidden bar.

Have you heard of any of these hidden gems in London, well, okay, other than Camden Market? If not, go to a few of these scenic places. Since many of these places are also close, you can hit many at once or at least on the same day.