Unique hidden gems in London

Hurry! These off-the-beaten-path London treasures won't stay secret for long.

Start exploring these top hidden gems today by catching a Grand Central train and travelling in style.

Honourable, yet classic mentions:

Jack the Ripper Museum

Spread across six floors of a Victorian house in Whitechapel, this museum tells the chilling story of Jack the Ripper through books, films, and artefacts. Visitors play the role of a detective and try to solve the murder mysteries with clues and crime-scene boards.

Little Venice

This picturesque area, reminiscent of its Italian namesake, features charming waterside cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Locals come here to enjoy canal boat rides or stroll along the paths to Camden or Regent's Park.

The Thames Path

Stretching 40 miles along the River Thames, this path offers hidden spots like public beaches, the historic Prospect of Whitby pub, and the quaint village of Rotherhithe. You can even get the full family active by renting a bike to explore serene stretches and scenic views.

Pie and Mash Shops

Dive into traditional London cuisine with pie, mash, and green liquor at East End shops. Some favourites include M. Manze and G. Kelly in the East End and gourmet spots like Mother Mash.

Exclusive shopping spots:

Neal's Yard

A colourful courtyard in Seven Dials, perfect for Instagram photos, with unique shops and cafes.

Cecil Court

Off St Martin's Lane, this street is lined with antiquarian bookshops and antique stores.

South Molton Street and St Christopher's Place 

Near Oxford Street, these areas offer a mix of high-end and independent boutiques.

The Yards

In Covent Garden, this hidden enclave features boutique shops and eateries.

Camden Passage

A treasure trove in Islington with vintage shops, antique stalls, and independent boutiques.

Greenwich Market

Discover artisanal goods, unique boutiques, and international street food.

One-of-a-kind visits:

Brown Hart Gardens

Located near Oxford and Bond Streets, this elevated garden in Mayfair provides a peaceful escape with plenty of seating and the iconic MM Caffé serving up light snacks.

Stephen Wright's House of Dreams

In East Dulwich, this home is adorned inside and out with outsider art collected over 20 years, including weird and wonderful doll' heads, false teeth, wigs, and trinkets. Open on select days for tours.

Chelsea Physic Garden

Established in 1673, this walled garden near the Thames is London's oldest botanic garden. It features around 5,000 edible, medicinal, and historical plants, offering a serene retreat.

Kyoto Garden at Holland Park

Nestled in Kensington's Holland Park this Japanese-style garden features tranquil ponds, stone lanterns, and vibrant acres, making it a perfect spot for relaxation.

Denis Severs' House

This immersive experience in Spitalfields recreates an 18th-century family's home, complete with uneaten food and recently used beds, giving a unique glimpse into the past.

Sir John Soane's Museum

As the former home of the Bank of England architect, this museum houses over 20,000 architectural drawings and antiquities, including the Egyptian Sarcophagus of Seti, alongside works by Turner, Canaletto, and Piranesi.

Delicious drinks with a unique setting:

Experimental Cocktail Club

Hidden in Chinatown, offering expertly crafted cocktails.

The Little Yellow Door

A quirky, flat-share-themed bar in Notting Hill.

Evans and Peel Detective Agency

In Earl’s Court, enter through a detective agency façade.

The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town

Accessed through a Smeg fridge door at The Breakfast Club in Spitalfields.

Eltham Palace

This unique site combines a medieval palace with a 1930s Art Deco mansion. Once a royal hunting lodge, it was transformed by millionaires Stephen and Virginia Courtauld into a glamorous home for entertaining.

Postman's Park

Named for its popularity among postal workers from the nearby General Post Office, this park features the Watts Memorial, which commemorates heroic acts of bravery within glazed tablets.

Wholesome favourites:

Richmond

Enjoy scenic views from Richmond Hill and visit the beautiful Richmond Park.

Greenwich

Explore maritime history, Greenwich Market, and the Royal Observatory.

Hampstead

Stroll through Hampstead Heath and discover charming cafes and boutiques.

Daunt Books

Located in Marylebone, this bookstore is known for its beautiful wooden interior and extensive travel section. It's a haven for book lovers and evokes a timeless, Harry Potter-like charm.

Lewisham's Phone Box Library

This repurposed phone box on Tyrwhitt Road is a free community library where you can take or leave a book, adding a unique touch to Lewisham's vibrant cultural scene.

Thirst-quenching tea or coffee:

L'Occitane's Beauty Café

Enjoy a coffee at the Regent Street beauty shop.

Swans Bar at Maison Assouline

A stylish spot for a drink on Piccadilly.

Tommy Hilfiger's People's Place Café

Nestled within the Regent Street store.

Mysterious places:

Abandoned Tube Stations

The London Transport Museum's Hidden London tours take you through disused tube stations and tunnels, offering a glimpse into the history and secrets of the Underground.

Open House London and Open Garden Squares<

During these annual events, access to private gardens, urban oases, and iconic buildings are typically closed to the public, providing a rare peek into London's hidden spaces.

Get exploring with Grand Central!

For more secret spots, get yourself over London today on a Grand Central train, who knows what hidden treasures you may find.