Top 20 Hidden Gems & Secret Places In London

Looking to avoid the crowds in London? Want to explore unique sites without waiting in line? You're in luck! London is filled with secret places just waiting to be uncovered. Here are 20 hidden gems in London you won't want to miss:

1. Kyoto Garden

The Kyoto Garden is easily one of the most beautiful secret places in London on this list, not to mention one of the most unique spots anywhere in central London. Holland Park itself is 54 acres in size and filled with gardens, trees and a wooded area, making it a wonderful escape in the heart of West London.

One of the hidden gems of the park that you should be sure to check out is the Kyoto Garden. This serene spot, opened in 1991, was a gift to Great Britain from the city of Kyoto, the cultural capital of Japan, to celebrate the long friendship between the two nations.

Location: Holland Park, Holland Park Avenue, W11 4UA.

2. St James's Park

Explore the picturesque charm of St. James's Park, a hidden oasis initially purchased by Henry VIII in 1532 and later redesigned by Charles II in the French royal park style. Nestled near Buckingham Palace, this tranquil haven remains a well-kept secret place in London, offering stunning views, lush green landscapes, and an artificial lake teeming with colourful birdlife.

Rich in royal history, the park hosts ceremonial events, boasts iconic London views, and is home to pelicans dating back to 1664. If you are looking for a serene escape in the heart of the bustling city, this is the perfect place to visit.

Location: London, SW1A 2BJ

3. Barbican Conservatory

The Barbican Conservatory, the second largest in London, is like a big greenhouse in the middle of the city. It's a peaceful place full of trees, tropical plants, colourful fish, and birds. You can join a guided tour to learn about the different plants and animals, or simply take a leisurely walk across the wooden bridges to explore on your own.

Visiting the Barbican Conservatory is free, so why not discover this hidden gem in London for yourself?

Location: Silk Street, London, EC2Y 8DS

4. Columbia Road Flower Market

Although it's a hidden gem, Columbia Road Flower Market stands out as the coolest secret market place in London. Every Sunday, the street becomes overflowing with stunning flowers and foliage. You'll discover a variety of plants, from bedding plants and herbs to houseplants and towering banana trees.

After purchasing your flowers, take a stroll down the side streets to explore independent restaurants, vintage stalls, antique shops, and galleries.

Location: Columbia Road, London E2 7RG.

Only on Sundays, 8am-3pm.

5. ‘Roman’ Bath House off the Strand

Nestled beneath a contemporary office block on 5 Strand Lane in London, the Strand Lane Baths quietly unveil a captivating piece of history. Originally constructed in 1612 as a cistern for Somerset House’s Garden fountain, these baths have been shrouded in Roman mystique since the 1830s.

Resurrected as a public cold plunge bath in the 1770s, the bath chamber boasts Tudor brickwork, potentially from the 18^th century, and is now accessible for public exploration, providing a unique peek into London's aquatic past.

Location: 5 Strand Lane, London WC2R 1AP

April to September: 12 noon - 4pm

October to March:12 noon - 3pm

6. Buckingham Palace

Explore the regal elegance of Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the UK's monarch since 1837. Admire its grandeur as it hosts national celebrations and the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, while opening its State Rooms to visitors each summer.

Serving as the focal point of the UK's constitutional monarchy, Buckingham Palace invites you to delve into its rich history and witness its role in royal events, making it an essential secret place to discover in London.

Location: London SW1A 1AA

7. The Tulip Stairs, Queen’s House

Discover the historic Queen's House in Greenwich, and be captivated by the enchanting Tulip Stairs, an architectural masterpiece designed by Inigo Jones. Dating back to the 17^th century, the house features the first geometric self-supporting spiral staircase in Britain.

Immerse yourself in the elegant atmosphere, discover its intricate ironwork, and uncover the fascinating history of The Queen's House involving a ghostly photograph taken in 1966. The Tulip Stairs remain an elegant and enchanting piece of architecture, drawing visitors to this building as one of London's hidden gems.

Location: Romney Road, London, SE10 9NF

8. The Smallest Police Station in the UK

At the south-east corner of Trafalgar Square is where you'll find Britain’s Smallest Police Station. Built in 1926, this secret place in London was concealed inside an ornamental light fitting and served as a discreet surveillance spot to monitor demonstrators after World War I.

With its unique history, including its role during The Bloody Sunday Riots of 1887, this unassuming venue sheds light on London's secret places and the struggles of the past.

Location: 44 Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DP

9. Little Venice

Nestled in the heart of London, Little Venice, though often overlooked, offers a tranquil escape where the Grand Union Canal meets the Regent's Canal. Surrounded by narrowboats and water cafés, this hidden gem showcases iconic mansions, a triangular pool with a willow tree, and floating businesses like the Waterside Cafe and a floating art gallery.

Explore the charm of cobbled streets, stunning houses, and diverse wildlife in this picturesque enclave, providing an ideal setting for a leisurely afternoon stroll and photography exploration.

Location: Blomfield Road, London W9 2PF

10. Strand Station

Originally named Strand Station in 1907 and later rebranded to Aldwych in 1915, this Leslie Green-designed gem boasts iconic oxblood red tiles. While it experienced limited passenger use, the station gained significance during the Blitz, transforming into a shelter for Londoners seeking refuge.

Explore its history, including the preserved original wooden trapezoid lifts, providing a fascinating glimpse into the architectural heritage of the London Underground.

Location: King’s College, 170 Strand, London WC2R 2LS

11. The Whitechapel Bell Foundry

Discover the secrets of London's oldest manufacturing company, the Whitechapel Bell Foundry, established in 1570 and famed for casting iconic bells like Big Ben and the Liberty Bell. While the foundry stopped bell casting in 2016, its historical significance, intricate craftsmanship, and renowned creations date back to 1583.

This hidden gem in London offers a captivating journey that preserves centuries of bell-making tradition, offering a unique glimpse into the city's craftsmanship and rich heritage.

Location: 34 Whitechapel Road, London E1 1DY

12. The Millennium Bridge

The Millennium Bridge, a pedestrian-only suspension bridge, opened in 2000 and connects St Paul's Cathedral with the Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe. Renowned for its iconic views of London's landmarks, the once nicknamed the "wobbly bridge" has become a secret place in London for photography enthusiasts.

Adding a unique touch to London's bridge landscape after a century, it offers spectacular perspectives of the cityscape.

Location: Thames Embankment, London EC4V 3QH

13. The Seven Noses

The London Noses or the Seven Noses, are an artistic installation dotted on buildings in the Soho area of London. These plaster of Paris reproductions of the artist's nose protrude from walls in an incongruous and unexpected manner. Created by artist Rick Buckley in 1997, they make for an interesting sight and a fun addition to any "treasure hunt" list while in London.

Location: Soho, W1, London

14. The Hidden Ears in Covent Garden

Many people visit the iconic London's Covent Garden for shopping. But this market square is also one of the most photogenic spots in London, especially at Christmas time. The side streets surrounding Covent Garden are also some of the best secret places in London for an Instagram snap – try and locate the fantastic Back to the Future graffiti art for a retro pic!

Similar to Soho’s seven noses, Covent Garden has its own set of hidden gems: a collection of hidden ears scattered along Floral Street.

Location: Covent Garden, WC2, London

15. Kynance Mews

Delve into the enchanting charm of Kynance Mews, an exquisite secret places nestled in London's South Kensington borough. Originally serving as stables in the 18^th century, the Mews Houses were intended to house horses, with accommodations for servants above.

Despite its central location, Kynance Mews remains relatively undiscovered by tourists, adding to its allure as a hidden gem in London.  This picturesque mews has evolved into exclusive residences, boasting a village-like charm that sets Kynance Mews apart. Experience its captivating seasonal transformations, making it a sought-after destination for admirers of Instagram-worthy streets in London.

Location: South Kensington, London, SW7 4QR

16. Burlington Arcade

A luxurious haven established in 1819, Burlington Arcade is a hidden gem in the heart of London, attracting locals and tourists alike. With 46 boutiques offering high-end fashion and lavish jewellery, the arcade, designed by architect Samuel Ware, exudes charm with lantern-lit arches and skylights.

Steeped in over 200 years of history, the arcade features the oldest and smallest police force in Britain, known as Beadles, enforcing rules and offering immersive guided tours to uncover its fascinating tales.  

Location: 51 Piccadilly, Mayfair, London W1J 0QJ

17. Richmond Park

Dating back to 1625, Richmond Park was a royal hunting ground and is a hidden gem among London's Royal Parks. It boasts the title of the city's largest Site of Special Scientific Interest and is one of the UK’s National Nature Reserves. Abundant with life and picturesque landscapes, such as the Isabella Plantation and Pembroke Lodge Gardens, it provides a serene retreat near the bustling city. With its rich history, varied wildlife, and ample opportunities for outdoor activities and wildlife photography, Richmond Park offers an enchanting escape for visitors of all ages.

Location: Richmond, London, TW10 5HS

18. Primrose Hill

Just a stone's throw away from the equally astonishing Regent's Park, Primose Hill offers some lively history as a place where duels were fought, and prize-fights took place. As one of London's six protected viewpoints, the summit, adorned with a William Blake inscription and "Shakespeare's Tree," provides stunning views of the city and Hampstead.

Location: Camden, LondonNW1 8LS

19. Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is one of the world’s largest collections of living plants. Capturing grand glasshouses, entwining plants, and tropical rainforests provides a visual treat, making it a secret haven for both nature enthusiasts and photography lovers alike. Don’t forget to book tickets to gain access, trust us they are well worth it!

Location: Vicotria Gate, London TW9 3JR

20. Highgate Cemetery

Highgate Cemetery, a hidden gem in London, was consecrated in 1839 to alleviate overcrowded inner-city graveyards. Nestled on a hill, it transformed into a fashionable burial ground adorned with Victorian romantic architecture, hosting notable figures like poets and painters.

Today, the cemetery's serene ambiance, mature trees, and wildflowers offer a captivating peek into London's Victorian burial traditions.

Location: Swain’s Lane, London N6 6PJ

March to October: 10am - 5pm

November to February: 10am - 4pm

Where to stay in London

Set in one of London’s most desirable neighbourhoods, Fraser Suites Queens Gate is perfectly placed for visiting some of London’s hidden gems, including Kynance Mews and Buckingham Palace. The Natural History Museum, The Victoria and Albert Museum and Harrods department store are all just a short walk away, too. Central London and the outskirts of the city, including Richmond Park, are equally accessible from Gloucester Road station.

If you are travelling with your dog or cat, our pet friendly hotels in London welcomes you and your four-legged friend to explore all the spots the city together! So, where will you visit first?

Check out our latest London hotel deals and book your stay at Fraser Suites Queens Gate!