Exploring London's Hidden Gems: Attractions & Neighborhoods

So you’ve seen all the London guides and done it all, or you’re not interested. Robert Frost once said that he took the path less traveled and that it made all the difference. This is precisely the sentiment we’d like to invoke in you as you plan your trip to London town.

In this guide, we'll introduce you to some of the best-hidden gems of the city, often overlooked. This guide will focus on lesser-known London attractions, from thrilling escape rooms to one-of-a-kind theater productions to competitive darts.

So, dare to embark on a different kind of adventure through London neighborhoods. Let us unveil the lesser-explored side of London! Prepare to explore London's hidden spots and captivating stories that define the true essence of this remarkable city.

Store your luggage before you embark on your journey to discover hidden gems around the city. Now if you’re looking for luggage storage for a day in London, look no further than Nannybag. Roaming around the city is difficult enough on its own. It’s essentially impossible to try and do it with luggage!

With Nannybag, you get luggage protection and a low rate of £6 per bag. Download the app, find the participating locations near you, and pay on the app. No need for scanned ID or cash on hand. Traveling stress-free can’t get any easier than this!

And if you're looking for more London inspiration, our London guides are just what you need to discover the city in a new light! Kensington, Trafalgar, Buckingham Palace, Covent Garden, and  even St Paul's Cathedral soon won't have any secrets for you. As you stroll along Kensington Lane, you'll discover hidden gems, from boutique shops to quaint cafes. To make the most of your visit to this enchanting area, be sure to check out the best walking tours in London. It's a delightful way to explore the city and uncover its unique charm.But first, let's dive into London's theatre scene and more!

Hidden London Tours - Abandoned Underground

This tour explores the forgotten tunnels and stations that tell tales of a past era. These exclusive tours are led by knowledgeable guides who take you to hidden platforms, forgotten passageways, and potential train stations.

Get ready for stories about these hidden spaces' history, engineering feats, and wartime experiences. These abandoned locations have been carefully preserved to retain their historical charm. It will truly be an unforgettable experience.

Location: Varies depending on the selected tour

Closest metro stop: Varies depending on the selected tour

Working Hours: Varies depending on the selected tour

Price: ££-£££

To check out the different rates and routes, click here

Dalston Superstore

This LGBTQ+-friendly hotspot is a must-visit destination for party-goers, food enthusiasts, and those looking for a good time! Welcome to Dalston Superstore, a one-of-a-kind venue that will bring you a great time. While it’s not a secret spot in London, it’s surely a gem.

The multi-level is a blend of a restaurant, bar, and nightclub. Like the local, the menu offers a range of options to appease everyone from meat eaters to gluten-free vegans. So lose yourself in the infectious beats of the music and dance the night away at this hidden gem in London.

Location: 117 Kingsland High St, London

Closest metro stop: Dalston Kingsland Station

Working Hours: Hours vary. Late-night hours on weekends

Price: £

Rowans

Lace up your bowling shoes and hit the lanes for a game of friendly competition. Whether you're a seasoned bowler or a complete novice, Rowans provides everyone with a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere.

Beyond bowling, Rowans offers a range of entertainment options. Challenge your friends to a pool or table tennis game, or showcase your skills at the arcade games. The bowling alley also hosts a series of themed events, so check online to see what’s poppin’!

Location: 10 Stroud Green Road, Finsbury Park, London

Closest metro stop: Finsbury Park Underground and Rail Station

Working Hours: Every day 10:30 am – 12:30 am & weekends 10:30 am – 2:00 am

Price: from £7.00. Book here.

Dennis Severs House

As you step through the museum, each room in the house has been carefully curated to transport you back in time. Wander through the dimly lit corridors and exquisite period furnishings, antique artifacts, and meticulously arranged table settings.

But it’s more than just a museum; it's an interactive experience. The Dennis Severs House operates on a timed-entry basis, and visits are limited to small groups to maintain the intimate atmosphere. Prepare to be enchanted!

Location: 18 Folgate Street, Spitalfields, London Closest metro stop: Liverpool Street Underground Station

Working Hours: Thursday 18:00–22:00, Friday 17:00–21:00, Saturday 12:00–22:00, Sunday 12:00–22:00

Price: Tickets start at £15. Tickets are available here.

London Bridge Escape Room

The London Bridge Experience is a historical tour and interactive adventure. With state-of-the-art special effects, realistic sets, and a captivating narrative, you'll be fully engrossed in the gripping tales that unfold before you. Sure, it’s one of the more touristy things in London, but The London Bridge Experience is an absolute must-visit.

It offers a unique blend of education and entertainment. There are multiple experiences to choose from the Roman invasion to the Great Fire of London, from the plague-ridden streets to the notorious Jack the Ripper era. You’ll certainly want more after your visit.

Location: The London Bridge Experience, 2-4 Tooley Street, London

Closest metro stop: London Bridge Train Station London Bridge Tube Station

Working Hours: Monday – Friday: Open – 12:00 – 18:00, Saturday- Sunday: – Open – 11:00 – 18:00, Closed Christmas Day

Price: Adults: £26.95, Children: £19.50; tickets can be purchased here.

Flight Club

A world where socializing meets friendly competition at Flight Club. Welcome to London's ultimate social darts experience. Flight Club is a captivating destination that combines the classic game of darts with a modern twist. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a complete novice, Flight Club's interactive scoring system ensures everyone can join in the fun.

The individual stations have fun, easy-to-follow dart games and keep track of the scores for you. In addition to the fun nature of the games, the Flight Club has incredible cocktails and food options.

The staff is very friendly and attentive. Oh! And don’t be surprised if you find some candid pictures and action replays. You’ll certainly be leaving with an Instagram post shared.

Location: 55 New Oxford Street, London, 2A Worship Street, London

Closest metro stop: Tottenham Court Road Underground, Liverpool Street Underground Station

Working Hours: Monday to Wednesday: 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM, Thursday to Saturday: 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM, Sunday: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM

Price: ££-£££; the cost is calculated per hour

Swimming in Hampstead Heath

London really can get hot in the summer, often surprisingly so for tourists from other countries. Finding somewhere to cool off in the water can be a little difficult. You wouldn’t want to go swimming in the Thames, the sea is quite far away, and public outdoor pools are rare.

Why not head to beautiful Hampstead Heath, a large park in north London? It’s really beautiful here: plenty of ancient woodlands, rolling hills that give great views over London, and a large lake popular with swimmers. It can get really busy on hot summer weekend days, so you might have to queue for a bit, but the one-in-one-out system means it all moves relatively quickly.

Location: Parliament Hill Fields, Gordon House Road, London

Closest metro stop: 7 am - 8:30 pm in the summer months

Working Hours: 7 am - 8:30 pm in the summer months

Price: entry costs £4.25 or £2.55 for concessions

BFI

Situated on London's vibrant South Bank, the British Film Institute (or BFI) is not just a cinema but a cultural hub. This local must is in charge of preserving and promoting the art of film.

They carry a rich selection of films from across the globe, ranging from timeless classics to the latest releases. From thought-provoking dramas and informative documentaries to avant-garde masterpieces and beloved family favorites. You can find something for everyone at BFI.

Location: Belvedere Road, South Bank, London

Closest metro stop: Waterloo Station

Working Hours: Four screens open 7 days a week, Box office 11am to 8:45pm

Price: Start at £8.90

For ticket prices and showing schedules, click here

London is full cultural treasures! Much like a page torn from the pages of Dickens' novels. From the vibrant streets of Camden to the serene lanes of Chelsea, this city has something for everyone. While Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace often steal the limelight, it's the hidden gems that truly make London special. Explore the quaint artists' enclave of Dunstan Lane in Greenwich, or wander through the historic Leadenhall Market near St. Paul's Cathedral. For those seeking a taste of local life, Covent Garden's theatre district offers a rich tapestry of performances.

Novello Theatre

Opened in 1905 as the Waldorf Theatre, this historic venue witnessed countless productions over the years. To this day, it is renowned for its impressive architecture. The theatre hosts various productions, from mesmerizing musicals to thought-provoking dramas.

So check out their schedule and book the show. Maybe you’ll even pick up a tuk-tuk to keep the tunes going after the show as you get back home.

Location: Covent Garden district

Closest metro stop: Covent Garden, Temple, and Charing Cross

Working Hours: Box office is open from 2 hours and 30 minutes before the start of the show, until 15 minutes after curtain up. During matinee days, box office is open continuously.

Price: Tickets for the current showing of Mamma Mia start at £52.75

For more information, click here

London is a city filled with hidden gems and lesser-known attractions. There's something for every adventurous traveler. So, step off the typical tourist route, and embark on a journey to discover some of these London's hidden treasures.

If you want to discover more hidden gems, look at Off-the-Beaten-Path Museums and Budget Friendly Experiences. Before taking off and taking it all in, store your luggage in one of our Nannybag locations. Download the mobile application and find a drop-off location near you. Now you’re ready to embrace the thrill of exploration in the remarkable metropolis of London.