Today I want to bring you my guide to unusual things to do in London. The city is full of unique and quirky finds, and there’s lots to entertain locals and visitors who are looking for something a bit different. From hidden courtyards to castle towers and haunted pubs, you’re spoiled for choice. If you want to take advantage of all there is to love about London’s less obvious side, read on for the A Lady in London guide.
Unusual Things to Do in London
One of the great things about London is that there are so many things to do. The city is enormous and I could live here my whole life and not experience everything.
While I love the big attractions and major landmarks, there are lots of unique and unusual things to do in London that make the city special.
I’ve picked my personal favorites for this blog post, and there are plenty more to experience on top of them. I hope my list encourages you to see more of London and experience the UK capital like a local.
If you need more ideas, you can check out my list of things to do in London in a year, my guide to free things to do in London, and my list of things to do in London alone.
I’ve also published seasonal guides to things to do in London in winter, spring, summer, autumn, and Christmas. If you want some structure, you can also take a look at my London itineraries and my themed itineraries.
If you’d like to explore more, there are a lot of other unique places profiled in Secret London – An Unusual Guide. You can get a copy here.
Whatever you choose to do, keep in mind that the weather in London is unpredictable. If you’ll be doing any of my outdoor recommendations, it’s a good idea to bring an umbrella with you. I recommend this one. My guide to what to wear in London has great tips, too.
1. Stay in a Quirky Hotel
First on my list of unusual things to do in London is stay in a quirky hotel. Whether you’re a visitor looking for a place to base yourself or a local seeking a getaway close to home, London has a lot of unique places to rest your head.
Whether you want to stay on a superyacht on the Thames, a boutique bolthole in Notting Hill, or a themed hotel in Covent Garden, there’s no shortage of options.
If that appeals, you can see my top picks on my blog post about the best quirky hotels in London. With so many different styles, you’re sure to find one that fits your preferences.
2. Find Farrier’s Passage & Smith’s Court
I never thought I would find one of my favorite secret places in London right in the heart of Soho.
But Farrier’s Passage caught my eye as I was walking along Brewer Street, and I couldn’t resist the temptation to walk down the covered alley.
When I got to the end, I was rewarded with the enchanting space that is Smith’s Court. Colorful shops and a peaceful atmosphere have lured me back many times since. It’s now one of my favorite unusual places to visit in London for free.
3. Explore Eel Pie Island
Next on my list of quirky things to do in London is explore Eel Pie Island. I first came upon this hidden isle in the middle of the Thames by accident, and I couldn’t believe how fun it was.
Eel Pie Island is home to unique houses and artists’ studios. There are open days twice a year (they usually take place in June and December), and they’re worth planning ahead for. The island welcomes visitors and comes to life with activity.
4. Take a Themed Walking Tour
Another unusual thing to do in London is go on a themed tour. I’ve created a number of free self-guided themed London walks over the years. From ones based around books to ones that relate to royalty, my routes span a range of topics and genres.
Whether you’re a literature lover, a Potterhead (you’ll love Leadenhall Market), a street art admirer, or a fan of the British monarchy, there’s a walk on my list you’ll want to take. I’ve written about unusual walks, too.
If you’d prefer a guided tour, there are plenty to choose from. You can see options and book a tour here.
5. Visit Oxleas Wood & Severndroog Castle
Oxleas Wood and Severndroog Castle are some of my favorite off-the-beaten-path places in London. Along with Oxleas Meadows and Eltham Common, Oxleas Wood forms a huge green space in the southeast of the UK capital.
Not only does the wood have miles of walking trails through the trees, but also hidden surprises like ladders, rope swings, and secret gardens. It’s fun to discover, and it feels like it’s a million miles from the city.
Right near Oxleas Wood lies Severndroog Castle, a tower on Shooter’s Hill with spectacular views of London. This under-the-radar gem is one of the best places to go in the city if you want to get away from it all.
6. Check out London’s Best Loos
I know, I know. This sounds strange. But there are some pretty amazing loos in London. From those in restaurants to those converted into restaurants, the city has a lot of impressive public conveniences. They’re worth seeking out.
You can see the highlights on my blog post about the best loos in London. From historic public toilets that are now hip cafes to fairy-tale bathrooms in famous London restaurants, these loos are worth a special trip.
7. Tour Eltham Palace
When it comes to palaces, London has no shortage. But some are more famous than others. We all know Buckingham Palace, but have you ever heard of Eltham Palace?
In the Tudor period, everyone from Henry VIII to Elizabeth I spent time at this royal palace in London. During the 20th century, Eltham Palace was transformed into an Art Deco gem. The interiors are stunning.
It’s worth a special trip to see this secret place in London. It’s an English Heritage site, so if you have an English Heritage pass, you can get in for free.
8. Discover the Secret Gardens
There are a lot of well-known green spaces in London, but my favorite places to see blooms is in the secret gardens. From lavender gardens by the Thames to walled gardens in Hampstead, they’re worth finding.
Vauxhall Park’s lavender garden is a hidden gem tucked away in a corner of Vauxhall Park. St John’s Lodge Garden is a lush oasis in the middle of Regent’s Park.
Tucked away on a side street in Hampstead, Fenton House is one of many under-the-radar Hampstead museums. Its walled garden features everything from manicured hedges to sunken gardens and a pint-size orchard.
9. Tour a Historic Home
When most people think of touring stately homes, they think of leaving London. But there are lots of them dotted throughout the city, and you can visit a surprising number of these heritage gems without leaving the UK capital.
From Ham House in Richmond to Strawberry Hill House in Twickenham and Eastbury Manor House in Barking, they’re worth a special trip. You don’t even have to leave central London to see some of the best of them.
You can check out the highlights on my blog posts about National Trust properties in London and English Heritage sites in London. You can get into these places and others for free with a National Trust pass or an English Heritage pass.
10. Go Stand-Up Paddle Boarding
Another thing most people don’t expect to do in London is go stand-up paddle boarding (SUP). But it’s a thing, and you can do it along the canals and other waterways in the city.
SUP is a year-round activity (although I’d recommend wearing a warm wetsuit in winter), and it’s a unique way to see London from the water. If you’re really after something quirky, you can even try SUP yoga in London.
You can do SUP everywhere from Paddington Basin to Regent’s Canal, Ladbroke Grove, King’s Cross, Islington, Camden, Hackney, and St Katharine Docks. If you’re interested, you can learn more and book here.
11. Stay in a Pub with Rooms
Another of the best unusual things to do in London is stay in a pub with rooms. I’ve stayed in many in the UK capital, including fun favorites that offer a slightly quirky experience.
From historic pubs with legendary stories to modern numbers with luxurious guest suites, there’s a range of options when it comes to inns to call home-away-from-home in the city.
If you’re looking for something a bit different, there’s plenty of pub accommodation in the UK capital. You can find your favorites on my blog post about pubs with rooms in London. I’ve included a map, too.
12. Have a Drink at One of the Oldest Pubs in London
I love a good pub, and I’m a big fan of the historic ones in London. From the City to the East End, the UK capital is teeming with heritage pubs. Some of them date as far back as the 16th century.
Many are known for their pirate legends, and lots are beloved for their warrens of small rooms. Still others are haunted (more on that later in this blog post).
Whether you cozy up at the Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street, marvel at the noose hanging outside The Prospect of Whitby in Wapping, make a toast at The Grapes, or see where Snatch was filmed at Ye Olde Mitre, there are plenty to choose from.
13. Take in the Dulwich Outdoor Gallery
Back outside, another of my favorite unusual things to do in London is take in the Dulwich Outdoor Gallery in southeast London. It’s a collection of al fresco murals painted by celebrated street artists.
They base their works on Baroque paintings in the famous Dulwich Picture Gallery, England’s oldest public art gallery. That means there’s impressive street art all over Dulwich and the surrounding areas.
Famous artists like Stik have left their mark here, and it’s fun to stumble upon different artworks while walking around.
My favorite piece is on Spurling Road. It’s a huge Conor Harrington mural of two Baroque-era men boxing, and it takes up the side of an entire building in East Dulwich.
14. Visit a City Farm
Another quirky thing to do is visit one of London’s city farms. These unique places bring the countryside to the UK capital, and they’re fun spots to see animals, admire gardens, and learn about how things grow.
Vauxhall City Farm is one of the oldest and most centrally located city farms in London. Right by MI6, it’s home to all kinds of barnyard animals and educational exhibits.
There area also city farms in places like Hackney, Spitalfields, Stepney, and Kentish Town.
15. Explore the Hill Garden & Pergola in Hampstead
The Hill Garden & Pergola in Hampstead was my first big discovery when I moved to London. This secret garden awed me with its hanging flowers, raised walkway, and stunning reflecting pool.
It’s in Hampstead Heath, one of London’s wildest parks. It’s a great place to go to feel far from the urban bustle of London.
The Hill Garden & Pergola is still one of my favorite secret places in London to go for a walk in the city, especially in the warmer months when the blooms are at their most beautiful.
I also love walking up to the adjacent Golders Hill Park, where the spring gardens are amazing. The tulips are always a treat to see.
16. See the Giant Walrus at the Horniman Museum
I love a good museum, and when it has an off-beat element I love it even more. The Horniman Museum in Forest Hill is the epitome of this phenomenon, complete with an overstuffed walrus you have to see to believe.
Legend has it that the taxidermist who prepared it had never seen a walrus before, so he stuffed all the skin folds until it became larger than life.
The gardens outside are lovely, too. The outdoor food market at the Horniman Museum is one of the best Sunday markets in London. It’s fun to get a snack there and take in the views of the London skyline.
17. Go to God’s Own Junkyard
If you want to see more unbelievable things in London, head to God’s Own Junkyard. This colorful shop and cafe in Walthamstow is packed with neon displays, salvaged signs, reclaimed neon works, old movie props, and artworks.
Located in an industrial estate, this unique place is a treat to explore. Not only is it fun to see all the neon, but The Rolling Scones Cafe/Bar is open for food and drinks all weekend.
The neon works change regularly, so it’s fun to go back again and again to see what’s new.
18. Go to the Museums at Night
One thing I love about London’s major museums is that they’re all free. Another thing I love is that many of them are open at night.
The National Gallery has a late opening every Friday, and the V&A stays open late on the last Friday of most months (and has DJs, drinks, and entertainment in the foyer).
The Natural History Museum hosts sleepovers for both kids and grown-ups, Sir John Soane’s Museum offers private tours by candlelight, and the Science Museum hosts adults-only after-hours events that give visitors a chance to explore the museum at night.
Whether you go with a group of friends, your family, or on a fun date in London, it’s a fun way to explore the city’s cultural institutions.
19. Take a Night Walk
Speaking of things to do in London at night, another of my favorite unusual things to do in London is go for a walk after dark. The city comes alive in the evenings, and places like Covent Garden, Soho, and Mayfair are fun to see after the sun goes down.
Whether you want to explore a new-to-you neighborhood or take a scenic Christmas lights walk during the festive season, there are lots to choose from. My blog post about free self-guided London night walks can help you find the perfect one for you.
There are also guided walking tours you can take to see London at night. From the famous Jack the Ripper tour to ghost walks, and food tours in the West End, they’re great ways to see the sights with an experienced guide. You can see options and book one here.
20. See the Thames Tunnel Shaft
Another of my top picks for unusual things to do in London is explore the Thames Tunnel Shaft. When the tunnel opened in 1843 it was the world’s most popular visitor attraction. The shaft was the world’s first caisson, and it was described as the Eighth Wonder of the World.
Underground fairs and banquets took place inside the tunnel in the mid-19th century. Today it’s used for rail transport, but the shaft is open to visitors at Brunel Museum in Rotherhithe.
The Grade II* listed structure has a chamber half the size of Shakespeare’s Globe, and it’s used for events, performances, and concerts.
If you still want to walk under the Thames, there are two foot tunnels in the Royal Borough of Greenwich: the Greenwich Foot Tunnel and the Woolwich Foot Tunnel. Both are open 24 hours a day, every day.
21. Kyoto Garden, Giant Chess, and Opera in Holland Park
Another unusual thing to do in London explore Holland Park. I love walking through the Kyoto Garden here. With its manicured grounds, peacocks, and water features, this place is unique.
Add to that the giant chess set nearby, and you could make an afternoon of it. There are lots of great gardens around, too.
In the summer Opera Holland Park is an exciting way to experience culture outdoors. If you want to see the highlights, you can go on my free self-guided Holland Park walk.
22. Enjoy a Unique Afternoon Tea
Next on my list of unusual things to do in London is enjoy a unique afternoon tea. The city has lots of offerings, but some are quirkier than others. It’s worth seeking out the most unique ones to have a distinctive experience.
A few favorites include the Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea at the Sanderson hotel and the Charlie & the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea at One Aldwych.
You can get more ideas from my blog post about the best afternoon teas in London. I’ve also published a post about gluten-free afternoon teas if you have dietary restrictions.
23. Go Vintage Shopping on Brick Lane
If you love shopping, London has you covered. From the famous department stores to the high streets, there’s something for everyone. But if you want an unusual experience, head to the vintage shops on Brick Lane in Spitalfields.
Not only does this famous shopping street in London have lots of unique finds, but also Sunday markets with more vintage treasures.
If you want to see additional ideas, you can take a look at my London shopping itinerary. It has fun ideas for places to get your retail therapy fix in the UK capital.
23. Walk Along Regent’s Canal
London also has beautiful canals. It’s worth taking a canal walk through Maida Vale, Little Venice, Camden, and King’s Cross to take in the colorful boats and views along the way.
You even get a free glimpse of the animals at the zoo as you go, so it’s a truly unique thing to do in London.
If you want to see areas farther off the beaten path, you can go on my free self-guided Regent’s Canal walk. It will take you from King’s Cross to Hackney and show you places most visitors miss.
25. Discover a Small Museum
Another of my favorite unusual things to do in London is discover the city’s small museums. There are quirky ones out there, including some that might make you squirm.
From The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities, Fine Art & UnNatural History to the Old Operating Theatre Museum and the Hunterian Museum, some of them will show you items like skulls, taxidermy, and dead things in bottles.
If you’re after something a bit more lighthearted, the Leighton House Museum has stunning interiors and beautiful art, and the Wallace Collection has incredible displays of armor. You can see more on my blog post about secret London museums.
26. Go to a Unique Theater, Cinema, or Musical Experience
London is known for theater, but it’s not just about the big shows in the West End. There are lots of quirky and experimental performances in the city, and it’s worth seeking them out.
From immersive theater productions where the audience participates to the annual Regent’s Park Open-Air Theatre in the summer months, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for fringe shows, independent productions, or unique venues like The Vaults in Waterloo, you’ll find it (and more) in London.
When it comes to cinema, London has no shortage of unique venues and experiences on offer. While everyone knows the big movie theaters in Leicester Square, there are lots of smaller and more unusual ones throughout the city that are worth a special trip.
Some of them are outdoors in the warmer months. From the annual rooftop cinema in Peckham (more on that later in this blog post) to pop-up outdoor cinemas throughout the city, they’re fun ways to see movies.
And that’s to say nothing of places like the BFI IMAX, which has has the largest cinema screen in the UK. I also love places like Everyman, where you can enjoy dinner and drinks while watching a movie on a comfy sofa.
And that’s to say nothing of icons like The Ritzy in Brixton and the Rivoli Ballroom in Brockley. The latter is the only intact 1950s ballroom left in London, and there are pop-up cinemas and other events on here throughout the year.
As far as music goes, London has no shortage of world-class concert venues. From the O2 to Wembley, they sell out big acts every year.
But if you’re looking for something different or more intimate, London still has you covered. From classic Soho spots like Ronnie Scott’s and Ain’t Nothin But The Blues to famous venues like Koko on Camden High Street, there are plenty of places to get your music fix.
If you want something truly unique, head to Wilton’s Music Hall in Wapping. This place is the oldest surviving grand music hall in London (and the world, for that matter).
Set over two floors, its wooden walls enclose a series of small cafes, bars, lounges, and libraries. It’s a great place to see gigs and other performances.
27. Roman Temple
If you love ancient history as much as I do, you’ll be excited to learn that there’s a Roman temple buried beneath the City of London. The London Mithraeum is the site of the reconstructed remains of the Temple of Mithras, and it’s worth a special trip to see it (there’s free admission, too).
The ruin was originally discovered in 1954 by archaeologist Professor W.F. Grimes. He came upon it during the excavations carried out after the Blitz in 1941.
The Temple of Mithras has been restored to capture the mystery and intrigue of the Roman cult of Mithras, which used to meet on the site. Visiting the ruin will transport you back to 240 AD and give you a taste of what life was like in ancient Londinium.
28. Have Tea at The V&A
Next on my list of unusual things to do in London is have tea in the historic cafe at the V&A. While most locals know about this place, it amazes me how many visitors miss it. It’s easy to see the highlights of the museum and never make it to this corner.
It’s worth a special trip, though, as the interiors are jaw-dropping. Said to be the world’s first museum cafe, its three rooms opened in 1868. They’ve been wowing visitors with their colorful ceramic, glass, and enamel decorations ever since.
No trip to South Kensington would be complete without stopping for a cup of tea and a browse around the cafe. The museum offers free entry, so you can stay for as little or as long as you’d like to.
29. Tour Highgate Cemetery
Another unusual place to visit in London is Highgate Cemetery. One of the Magnificent Seven garden cemeteries created in London, this place is not only packed with the graves of notable figures, but also a beautiful park to walk around.
From George Michael to Karl Marx, you can find all kinds of famous people’s headstones in this famous burial ground in Highgate.
You can also take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the cemetery and see places that can only be accessed with an escort.
If you want more, Nunhead Cemetery, Abney Park in Stoke Newington, and the burial ground at St Pancras Old Church in King’s Cross are worth a special trip.
29. See an Unusual View of London
Everyone knows the Sky Garden, The Shard, and Horizon 22. These famous places are known for everything from their viewing platforms to their restaurants with views.
But locals know that some of the best views of the city are the ones that are harder to find. While many people have admired the vistas from Parliament Hill, Primrose Hill, and Greenwich Park, places like Shooter’s Hill offer lesser-known views of London.
I also love the views from the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral, the restaurant at the Treehouse Hotel, and the top of Tower Bridge. You can see more of my favorite places to take in panoramas of the city on my blog post about the best views in London.
31. Tour an Abandoned Tube Station
Another unusual thing to do in London is tour an abandoned tube station. Not only are they fun to see, but they’ve also been used as filming locations for lots of movies and TV shows set in London.
If you’re interested, there are regular tours of the Aldwych tube station you can take. This place opened in 1907, and it was once a terminus of the Piccadilly line. It was never used as heavily as it was meant to be, and it closed to the public in 1994.
Today visitors can descend underground with a guide to learn about the history of the station, the London Underground, and the movies and TV shows that used it as a filming site. If that appeals, you can check dates and book a tour here.
32. Sit in the Ruins of a Wren Church
Next on my list of unusual things to do in London is sit in a garden in the middle of a ruin. St Dunstan-in-the-East was once a church in the City of London. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren (of St Paul’s Cathedral fame), it was largely destroyed in World War II.
The ruins are now a public garden maintained by the City of London Corporation. You can find St Dunstan in the East Church Garden between London Bridge and the Tower of London.
This beautiful place is a popular spot to find peace in the middle of the busy area around it. It’s great for photos and videos, too.
33. See the Cars in Forest Hill
If you’re into unique places, red phone boxes, and old cars in equal measure, you’ll want to head to Forest Hill.
On a side street called Wood Vale, you’ll find a historic red phone box, New York taxi, and vintage Daimler outside K Libretto & Daughters butcher shop. Not only are they a trifecta for Instagram, but they’re also fascinating to see.
The cars have been sitting outside the shop for decades. While they’re not in the best shape, they’re a fun thing to see. They’re not far from the aforementioned Horniman Museum, so you can visit them and see the walrus in one trip if you want to.
34. Go Mudlarking on the Thames
If you’ve ever wanted to find buried treasure, mudlarking on the Thames is for you. This unique activity involves searching the riverbed for historical artifacts.
Only accessible for a few hours a day at low tide, the land is rife with objects untouched since they were lost or discarded hundreds (or even thousands) of years ago.
Each one has a story to tell about London’s history. Mudlarking is a great way to do something unique and find something unusual at the same time.
If you’re interested, keep in mind that to go mudlarking in London, you need a Thames Foreshore Permit from the Port of London Authority.
As such, most people do this on a guided tour where permits are arranged for them. Additionally, all objects 300 years old or more must be reported to the Museum of London.
35. Meander Through the Mews
While not a specific place, London’s mews are my favorite unusual places to wander. From Kensington to Notting Hill, Holland Park to Paddington, the city has no shortage of these secret streets.
Pink houses, painted doors, overgrown gardens, and cobblestones all make the mews some of the most beautiful little lanes in London.
They’re fun to stumble upon, but if you want some guidance you can take a look at my itinerary for finding the best mews in London or go on my free self-guided Paddington walk.
If you’d like to see some of my favorites, head to Kynance Mews in Kensington, Stanhope Mews South in South Kensington, St Luke’s Mews in Notting Hill, and Warren Mews in Fitzrovia. I love the unique ski mural in Reece Mews, too.
36. Search for Blue Plaques
Another quirky thing to do in London is seek out blue plaques on buildings where famous people once lived. Walking around areas like Bloomsbury and Hampstead to spot them is a fun way to spend an afternoon.
Whether you’re looking for famous political figures, literary heavyweights, musicians, actors, or someone else, you can find a blue plaque you’ll love. From Charles Dickens to Bob Marley, there’s a variety to choose from.
There are over 1,000 plaques across the UK capital, and you’ll see them on both everyday buildings and grand ones. They all pay homage to the notable people who have lived or worked in them, and they’re a treat to find.
Don’t miss ones dedicated to Jimi Hendrix and George Frideric Handel. They’re on neighboring houses on Brook Street in Mayfair.
37. Track Deer in Richmond Park
Another unusual thing to do in London is track deer in Richmond Park. This National Nature Reserve is famous for them, and it’s home to over 600 red and fallow species. Herds have been roaming freely here since 1637, and it’s fun to come across them.
Richmond Park’s vast expanse makes it ideal for a good leg stretch. It can also make it hard to find the deer. The grounds are packed with views, dogs, and horses, too, so there’s always something to see even if you don’t spot the herds.
If you want to see more, you can take a look at my blog post about park walks in London. It has a free self-guided route for Richmond Park that can help you figure out where to go.
38. Explore Local London Neighborhoods
I love exploring London neighborhoods, and one of my top picks for unique things to do in London is get lost in a different one every day.
As I mentioned above, Richmond is a great area to discover. Its riverside location makes it the ideal spot for a waterfront walk on a sunny day. Richmond Park is perfect for picnics, too.
Hampstead has always been my favorite part of London. This leafy village in the north of the city is the perfect place to spend an afternoon meandering. The atmosphere here is hard to beat.
South London is underrated, and Dulwich village is worth a special trip. This area is full of beautiful houses, parks, and picture galleries. Neighboring East Dulwich has great shops and restaurants on Lordship Lane, too. You can spend a day exploring both.
If you want to see more, take a look at my guide to the prettiest London villages. My interactive London map can help you choose a location near you, too.
I’ve also written guides to the best areas in east London, west London, north London, south London, and central London that can inspire you.
39. Go on a Quirky Food Tour
Another fun thing to do is try unusual British foods on a quirky food tour in London. From jellied eels to spotted dick, there are plenty of strange (or at least strange-sounding) things to try in the UK capital.
But there are unique foods that will tempt the taste buds, too. If you’re interested in trying some classics, you can go on a secret British food tour to sample a range of them. You can see options and book one here.
If you want to go on your own, you can follow my free London food tour itinerary or read my list of weird British foods you have to try.
40. See Street Art in the East End
London’s street art scene has gone from strength to strength over the years. There’s no better place to see it than hip east London. I’ve published a free self-guided street art tour you can take, and you can also go on a guided tour.
Shoreditch is one of the best places to see street art in London. The areas around Shoreditch High Street and Redchurch Street are some of my favorites, but you can’t go wrong in the area.
The Romeo & Juliet mural on New Inn Broadway is particularly worth seeking out. It sits on the site of the original theater where the famous Shakespeare play was first performed.
Spitalfields might even have better street art than Shoreditch. Hanbury Street alone has some of the best in the city. It changes all the time, so it’s worth going back to the area around Brick Lane again and again to see what’s new.
41. Be Awed by the Royal Exchange
Another unique thing to do is go to the Royal Exchange in the City of London. While many locals love this place, a lot of visitors don’t know you can walk in.
But once you get through the doors, you’ll find yourself faced with a stunning interior and one of a select number of Fortnum & Mason shops in London. There’s a Fortnums cafe in the central atrium, too.
This place is worth a special trip if you’re in the City. It’s right by Bank station, so it’s easy to get to on the tube from other parts of London.
42. Stand on the Prime Meridian
Greenwich Park might just have the prettiest view of London. The hill offers stunning views of Greenwich and the skyscrapers in Canary Wharf.
But it doesn’t end there. Right next to the famous viewpoint is the Royal Observatory. It’s the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), the Prime Meridian of the world, and the only planetarium in London.
It’s worth a visit to learn about astronomy and stand with one foot on either side of the Prime Meridien. If that appeals, you can book a Royal Observatory ticket here.
43. Go to a Local Market in London
Whether you love food or flowers, there’s a London market for you. Wandering through the markets and taking in the sights and scents is one of the most appealing things to do in London.
While most visitors stick to the obvious markets (and by that I mean Borough Market, the famous market on Portobello Road in Notting Hill, and Camden Market), there are lots of local ones that are worth a special trip. Whether you’re after vintage treasures or foodie finds, there’s one for you.
Right near Borough Market, Maltby Street Market is just the place to indulge your inner foodie. This market has great fresh food and hip bars under the railway arches. In the same area you’ll find Flat Iron Square and Vinegar Yard, which are also worth a trip.
The Columbia Road Flower Market and Broadway Market are beloved by locals, but not many visitors go. Even locals miss places like North Cross Road Market in East Dulwich, Chatsworth Road Market in Hackney, and Herne Hill Market.
And that’s to say nothing of foodie favorites like Mercato Metropolitano in Elephant & Castle and Mercato Mayfair. The latter is unusual in that it’s housed in a former church. It’s amazing to see.
44. Take a Walk in a Local Neighborhood
Another unique thing to do in London is walk around a local neighborhood. Not only is it a great way to get to know the city, but also the perfect opportunity to take in the details that make the UK capital such a special place.
In fact, walking everywhere in London is a great way to spend time. I’ve written a lot of free self-guided London walking tours that will take you all over the city on foot.
Whether you want to discover a famous place like Covent Garden or a new-to-you area like Holland Park or Dulwich, there’s a walk (or ten) you’ll love.
You can also take a guided walk. There are lots of fun ones to choose from, including walks that will show you historic parts of the city you never knew existed. You can see options and book one here.
45. Find Neal’s Yard
Another quirky place to discover in London is Neal’s Yard. While locals know about this place, it surprises me how many visitors miss it. This colorful courtyard is nestled right in the heart of Covent Garden, and it’s a treat to discover.
Neal’s Yard is famous for its shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s also known for the bright hues that grace the facades of the buildings.
You can see Neal’s Yard and other parts of Covent Garden and Seven Dials on my free self-guided Covent Garden walk. It will show you the big sights and secret spaces as you discover the area.
46. Swim in Hampstead Heath
Did you know you can go wild swimming without leaving London? The famous ponds in Hampstead Heath are the perfect places to get into nature and brave the chilly water.
In the warmer months, the bathing ponds in the heath are packed with swimmers (you sometimes have to book ahead). Whether you choose the Ladies’ Pond, the Men’s Pond, or the Mixed Pond, they’re the perfect places to cool off on hot summer afternoons.
If you want to, you can combine a swim with my free self-guided Hampstead Heath walk. It will take you around the green space, show you great views, and lead you to haunted pubs and secret gardens.
47. Walk the Capital Ring
Next on my list of unusual things to do in London is walk the Capital Ring. This long-distance path is a 78-mile (125-kilometer) circular route around inner London.
The walk covers everything from green spaces to abandoned railway lines, towpaths, and nature reserves as it leads you around the UK capital.
Each of the 15 sections of this London walk features local landmarks like the Thames Barrier, Eltham Palace, Richmond Park, Oxleas Meadow, and the London Olympic Park.
There’s a book called The Capital Ring that’s a great companion guide. If you want a copy of it, you can get one on Amazon here. You can see more unique routes in and around the city on my London walking books blog post, too.
48. Go to a Haunted Pub
One of my favorite quirky things to do in London is go to a haunted pub. With all the history in the city, there are plenty of watering holes and historic inns that are said to have ghosts living in them.
Whether you believe it or not, you have a number of options. Haunted pubs in London include The Ten Bells in Spitalfields, The Grenadier in Belgravia, The Bow Bells in Bow, The Spaniards Inn in Hampstead, the Sutton Arms near the Barbican, The Flask in Highgate, the Viaduct Tavern in the City, The Rising Sun in the City, The Old Bull & Bush in Hampstead, and The Prospect of Whitby in Wapping.
If you’re interested, you can see some of London’s historic and haunted pubs on a guided walking tour. You can see options and book one here.
49. See an Ancient Roman Wall
Speaking of historic places, another unusual thing to do in London is see parts of an ancient Roman wall. From the City of London to Tower Hill, there are ruins of this historic fortification dotted throughout the UK capital.
The defensive wall was first built by the Romans to surround the strategically significant port settlement of Londinium around 200 AD. The wall defined its boundaries and proclaimed its status as the most important city in Roman Britain.
From Tower Hill in the east to Blackfriars Station in the west, the wall once ran for 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) around the ancient city. Today you can see what remains of it by the Tower of London and in places like Vine Street in the City of London.
50. Go to a Speakeasy
Another fun thing to do in London is go to one of the city’s famous speakeasies. From bars hiding in plain sight in the West End to secret watering holes in local neighborhoods, there are lot of fun ones to choose from.
If you want to go to a speakeasy in central London, you can check out The Vault. It’s an underground cocktail bar hidden behind a bookcase in Milroy’s of Soho. It’s one of my top picks for unusual things to do in London for couples and unusual birthday ideas in London.
If you’re looking for something local, my favorite is Evans & Peel Detective Agency in Earls Court. This place is a proper speakeasy, complete with an unmarked entrance, passwords, and false identities.
51. Go to a Rooftop Bar in Summer
Speaking of drinks, another quirky thing to do in London is have drinks on top of a building or a parking garage. If you head to a hipster neighborhood like Peckham, you can choose from one of two neighboring buildings with bars on top in the late spring and summer months.
Frank’s Cafe at Bold Tendencies serves food and drink on top of a former parking garage in Peckham. Bold Tendencies spans the rooftop spaces of the old Multi-Storey Car Park. It transformed the disused building into an iconic cultural hub, and it’s a great place for cocktails with a view of London.
Right next door, the Bussey Rooftop Bar is a covered terrace with a unique drinking and dining experience. Add to that a rooftop cinema and 360-degree views of the London skyline, and it’s the place to be all summer long.
Unusual Things to Do in London
So there you have it. 51 unusual things to do in London. I hope after reading my list you’ll agree that there are lots of unique and quirky things to do in the UK capital.
I hope they keep you as busy as they’ve kept me, and I’m confident they’ll give you a newfound appreciation for all the city has to offer.
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Thanks. Ive lived in London a long time but loads of new things to try here
You’re welcome! I’m glad you’ve found some new things to do on my list.