7 Spectacular Secret Places in London

London’s charm lies in the fact that it has something for everyone. History, culture, fashion, music, food and more. It’s a city that accommodates everyone and that’s what makes it a metropolis in the truest sense of the word. While in this dynamic city, go beyond the guidebooks and explore the hidden gems that standout in their own right.  From sophisticated tea parlours to trendy nightclubs, here are 7 secret places in London to visit on your trip there.  

Victorian Afternoon Tea at the V&A Café

The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A Museum) is the world’s leading museum of art and design with a permanent collection of over 2.3 million objects that span over 5,000 years of human creativity. Home to an elaborate assemblage of sculptures, paintings, jewellery, textiles and other artistic resources, some of the United Kingdom’s national collections are also on display here. Within the V&A Museum is the V&A Café with its opulently decorated Victorian-esque interiors. Served every Sunday from 3 pm to 5 pm, the Victorian Afternoon Tea is a must-do when in London. Complete with ribbon sandwiches, scones, tarts and fine tea served in traditional crockery, reservations are mandatory to enjoy this quintessential British experience.

Daunt Books

An iconic bookstore chain in London, Daunt Books’ Marleybourne High Street branch takes you back in time. Housed in a charming Edwardian-style building, the interiors with three levels complete with oak balconies, a conservatory ceiling and large stained-glass window are as impressive as the books lining the shelves. Known primarily as a travel bookshop where you can score anything from guide books to maps, Daunt Books also stocks a collection of literary fiction, biographies, political discourses and more. Daunt Books also hosts the annual Daunt Books Festival in March where author discussions and book readings are big crowd pullers.

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Camden Passage

Typical shopping in London usually centres around either high-end boutiques or classic retail chains. However, if neither of those are quite your style, then make your way to Camden Passage. The venue for an open market every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, you’re likely to find an eclectic mix of stalls where you can pick up everything from vintage clothing to whimsical knick-knacks. This pedestrian passage off Upper Street in the London Islington is also dotted with antique stores where affordable objects of art and collectables can be found. Camden Passage also has some quirky cafes and eateries where you can enjoy a meal while exploring the area.

Camley Street Natural Park

Not exactly what you’d expect to find in an urban setting, the Camley Street Natural Park is an oasis in Kings Cross in the centre of London. Spanning 8 hectares, the park is a wildlife sanctuary and conservation centre. With a combination of wetlands, forests and meadows, these diverse habitats are home to several species of flora and fauna as well as avian and wild life. Other highlights at Camley Street Natural Park include a viewing deck alongside Regent’s Canal and the Wildwood Cafe that serves vegetarian food on weekends and during the week in the summer time.

Alice Through The Looking Glass

London’s West End area is the hub of the vibrant theatrical scene that the city offers. Amidst this entertainment district is the quaint store paying ode to the Lewis Carroll classic, Alice Through The Looking Glass. Here, you can shop for all Alice-related collectables from t-shirts to art prints. Pick up themed souvenirs and gifts like espresso cups, a limited edition chessboard and even a rabbit eye mask! Irrespective of whether you’re a buyer or browser, Alice Through The Looking Glass is a fun little store to visit.

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18 Stafford Terrace

Formerly known as Linley Sambourne House, 18 Stafford Terrace was once the residence of the cartoonist Edward Linley Sambourne. Dating back to the 1800s, much of this Victorian house remains intact and retains its original aesthetics. The interiors reflect its historic glory with stained glass windows, porcelain wall paper and photographs from the Edwardian era.  Movie buffs would be especially interested to know that 18 Stafford Terrace featured prominently in Merchant Ivory’s two films, A Room With A View and Maurice.

Experimental Cocktail Club

As its name suggests, Experimental Cocktail Club promises an interesting take on spirts and cocktails. A shabby door in London’s Chinatown area gives way to this hidden secret bar that’s set over three floors. This trendy bar with plush interiors isn’t quite what you’d expect to find behind a fairly rundown exterior. A cool cocktail bar that has its origins in Paris, the Experimental Cocktail Club’s USP is its impressive selection of handcrafted cocktails put together by award-winning mixologists. For a celebratory evening with good music and great drinks, Experimental Cocktail Club is where you should go!

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