We have all heard about the major attractions in London like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye and the Tower of London. These are all fabulous reasons to visit London, but what about the attractions that are not as frequently advertised? London has some great hidden places of interest that are captivating in their own right.
Hunterian Museum. Photo Courtesy: http://www.glasgowsleadingattractions.com
Hunterian Museum
This is an alternative museum for those who may have a scientific curiosity or for those who just enjoy a bit of gore. The museum exhibits medical instruments and artefacts from history including various preserved organs and anatomical tables used in past autopsies. It is free to enter.
St Mary’s Secret Garden. Photo courtesy: http://www.maijaastikainen.com
St. Mary’s Secret Garden
Hidden away in Pearson Street, Hackney, St. Mary’s Secret Garden is a quiet haven featuring beautiful woodland, an aromatic herb garden and its own vegetable patch. It is also great for those on a budget as it can be visited for free between 9 am and 5 pm, Mondays to Fridays. If you enjoy being in the outdoors and going on walking holidays, a visit to these picturesque gardens could be the highlight of your time in London.
The Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art. Photo courtesy: http://www.nytimes.com/
The Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art
An interesting little museum in a Georgian building in Islington, it features 19th and 20th-century Italian artwork. Its focus is on modern art and technology and there is a tranquil courtyard in which you can relax with a coffee.
Spa London
For a little rest and relaxation, Bethnal Green’s Spa will provide various treatments and massages to soothe the mind and body. The Turkish Baths have recently been restored, so you can also enjoy a soak for only £20.
Dennis Severs’ House. Photo courtesy: http://georgianaduchessofdevonshire.blogspot.com
Fitzroy House and Dennis Severs’ House
Both of these houses are worthwhile landmarks to visit whilst in London. If you enjoy cycling holidays, Fitzroy House in Camden and Dennis Severs’ House in Tower Hamlets are great locations to stop off when touring London on your bicycle. Severs created his house with the image of a silk weaving family in mind, even leaving half-eaten meals on the table and unmade beds, making it an interesting work of art. The 18th century Fitzroy House was once home to George Bernard Shaw and L. Ron Hubbard, the creator of Scientology. Tours are given for free.
Chislehurst Caves. Photo courtesy: http://www.london-attractions.info
Chislehurst Caves
These man-made caves sheltered thousands of families during the Blitz and also have associations with the Romans. The tour guide will take you around the 22-mile long caves with an oil lantern, giving it an eerie, authentic feel. This experience is ideal for groups on walking holidays.
Wilton’s Music Hall. Photo courtesy: http://sandralawrencevocals.wordpress.com
Wilton’s Music Hall
This is the oldest and longest surviving grand music hall and still holds some spectacular theatrical performances, opera and concerts. Once a shelter in the Blitz, the hall was saved from demolition in the 1960s. It is currently in a crumbling state, so visit or take one of the cheap tours before it closes for good.
In addition to the famous landmarks of London, you can now see some of the obscure, hidden gems around the city. Most of them are free or are very cheap to enter, so you have plenty to fill up your time on a long weekend away.
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Author Bio: Angela Morgan writes regularly on travel and tourism for a range of travel websites and blogs. Previous articles include information on cycling holidays worldwide.