London is one of the biggest cities in the world and one of the most visited so it’s not a surprise that there are hundreds of blogs about the city. These include tips on the city’s hidden gems, however, the same places features on these lists (lists that exist in their thousands) so the reality is they’re not really that secret any more. Whilst it’s not accurate to describe the likes of Kyoto Gardens & St Dunstan in the East ‘hidden gems’ they are still great place to visit. Which of these London hidden gems that everyone knows about did you already know about?!
1. Kynance Mews
First up on this list is Kynance Mews. London is full of beautiful cobbled mews streets, many of which are still hidden away tucked up side streets in the hearts of London’s residential areas but there is one which is well known and all over Instagram at certain times of the year.
In Spring Kynance Mews is transformed into a lilac dream as wisteria drapes across the buildings and in Autumn the colours transform to brilliant red and golden tones of the ivy that covers the mews! Visit to see this beautiful street but also to dodge the photographers out in force 😀 And as you can see I’ve been one of them…😂
2. Neal’s Yard
Neal’s Yard is tucked away and you do need to know it’s there but it is also tucked away near one of the busiest areas of London, Covent Garden. You can find Neal’s Yard as a snug passageway between Monmouth Street and Short’s Garden in the Seven Dials District. It’s one of my favourite colourful spots in London but always strange to remember that in the 1970s this was still a derelict area full of rats running around until it was transformed by Nicholas Saunders!
3. Leadenhall Market
Walk into Leadenhall Market and take a step back in London’s time. The market has existed since the 14th century which makes it one of the oldest markets in London and it’s name allegedly stems from ‘Leather Hall’. The market has grown in popularity due to its short role in the Harry Potter films as well as becoming a popular spot for Instagrammers as well due to its gorgeous details, especially at Christmas when it is decorated very festively.
4. Regent’s Canal
Camden Market is high on every tourist’s agenda when visiting London so if you’ve visited the market you’ve most likely visited or spotted the Canal as the Camden Locks sit on the Canal. It links the Grand Union Canal to the River Thames and a stroll along parts of it is a great way to explore! The Regent’s Canal also passes by King’s Cross at Coal Drops Yard and you’ll find popular Little Venice where it meets the Grand Union Canal.
5. St Dunstan in the East
This wonderful ruin in the City of London truly once was a hidden gem and a place of peace amongst the hustle and bustle of London life. However, featuring on many hidden gem & secret spots has led to an influx of Instagrammers & Influencers (not to mention wedding shoots) that mean that if you’re looking for the peace its purported to offer you’ll be disappointed! It is a hauntingly beautiful place to visit so do stop by and wander through the ruins.
6. Kyoto Gardens
Kyoto Gardens is another place that is supposed to be an oasis of tranquillity in amongst Holland Park yet despite the warning signs to respect the quiet. The garden is often flooded with visitors and a pleasant stroll can be interrupted by the stop-start of waiting to pass through! It is a beautiful spot though, especially in Autumn as the leaves turn all shades of orange and red 🍂
7. Daunt Books
Daunt Books is a beautifully aesthetics travel bookshop in London, the most popular of which is near Marylebone station. If you’re on the hunt for Instagram spots in the city then this is most likely on your list and if you’re not on the hunt then it’s well worth stopping in to browse their collection and probably take one home for yourself!
8. Hampstead Heath
Yes, really. I’ve seen Hampstead Heath pop up a number of times on hidden gem blogs and given it’s one of the biggest green parks in North London it’s pretty hard to miss! The Heath is a great place for a weekend ramble followed by exploring the streets of Hampstead and Hampstead Village before a sunday roast in one of the many pubs in the area. In the summer you can even bathe in the Hampstead ponds!
9. The Sky Garden
The Sky Garden is located right at the top of the Walkie Talkie skyscraper and has incredible views out across London. What makes this such a great location (although shockingly I’ve still not done it yet!) is that it’s free to visit but you do have to book in advance. It really tells you that this isn’t a hidden gem given every time I’ve looked it’s been fully booked…!
10. Primrose Hill
Another surprising place on this list but which I have found on secret London posts is Primrose Hill. It’s so close to the London Zoo and Camden Market and you’ll find plenty of other people up here enjoying the view across London’s skyline. It is a great spot for a view of London and you might recognise it from the opening of Bridget Jones: the Edge of Reason as well!
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Cat x