For the offbeat traveler, London is more than just Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. Beneath its historic grandeur lies a treasure trove of quirky, hidden, and downright fascinating experiences.

Ever wanted to sip cocktails in a 1940s-style bunker? Or perhaps wander through a neon-lit underground paradise? How about visiting the city’s smallest police station (spoiler: it’s inside a lamp post)?

You can do all that (and more) in this dynamic city. One moment, you're exploring a Victorian-era cemetery, the next, you're uncovering Roman ruins hidden beneath a modern office building. And when evening falls, how about watching a movie in a secret theatre or dine in a restaurant inside an old public toilet?

No matter whether you are a history lover, urban explorer, or someone who just enjoys a good hidden speakeasy, London’s got you covered. Let’s check out some unique things to do in London to make the most of your visit.

Unique Things To Do in London

• God’s Own Junkyard – A psychedelic warehouse filled with vintage neon signs.

• Leighton House Museum – A lavish 19th-century artist's home with stunning Islamic-inspired interiors.

• The Seven Noses of Soho – A quirky art scavenger hunt around London.

• Wilton’s Music Hall – The world’s oldest surviving music hall, hosting intimate performances.

• Daunt Books Marylebone – A book lover’s dream in an Edwardian-era travel bookstore.

• Eel Pie Island – A tiny, bohemian island on the Thames with an intriguing music history.

• Little Venice – A charming canal area with houseboats, waterside cafes, and narrowboat rides.

• Sir John Soane’s Museum – A house-museum packed with eccentric collections and secret doors.

• Sky Garden – A free indoor garden with panoramic views over London.

• Hidden Roman Temple of Mithras – An underground temple dating back to the 3rd century.

• Dennis Severs’ House – A time capsule experience of a 17th-century home, frozen in time.

• The Vaults Waterloo – An underground art space filled with immersive theatre and street art.

• The Hunterian Museum – A fascinating (and slightly eerie) collection of medical specimens.

• Camden’s Cyberdog – A futuristic, neon-clad rave store unlike anything you’ve seen.

• Highgate Cemetery – A gothic Victorian cemetery with famous graves and hauntingly beautiful tombs.

• The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town – A hidden speakeasy behind a Smeg fridge in a breakfast café.

• Mail Rail at The Postal Museum – Ride a tiny underground train that once carried London’s mail.

• The Sherlock Holmes Pub & Museum – Step into the world of the famous detective.

• London’s Abandoned Tube Stations Tour – A deep dive into the ghost stations beneath the city.

• Afternoon Tea on a Double-Decker Bus – Sightseeing meets high tea on wheels.

With Atlys, getting your UK visa is as easy as ordering your favorite takeaway, minus the wait and the hassle. No more drowning in paperwork, playing the guessing game, or refreshing your inbox like it’s a full-time job. Just a stress-free ride straight to your next adventure. London’s calling, let’s get you there!

1. God’s Own Junkyard

A neon wonderland tucked away in an industrial estate, God’s Own Junkyard is where old Hollywood glamour meets East London eccentricity. Imagine stepping into a kaleidoscope of glowing pinks, blues, and yellows, with vintage movie props, salvaged fairground signs, and handcrafted neon art lighting up every corner. It’s part art gallery, part nostalgia trip, and 100% Instagram gold.

Location & How to Get There

Walthamstow, East London

Public Transport:

• Tube & Train: Take the Victoria Line to Walthamstow Central, then it's a 10-minute walk.

By Car:

• Parking is limited, but street parking is available on weekends.

What to Expect Inside

• A Neon Wonderland: The space is filled with signs that once adorned nightclubs, movie sets, and even Soho’s eccentric night life. Think Elvis in neon, glowing angel wings, and electric love hearts everywhere.

• Photographer’s Paradise: Whether you're a pro or just snapping with your phone, you won’t run out of cool backdrops.

• Rolling Scones Café: Nestled inside the warehouse, this quirky little café serves coffee, tea, and cakes under the glow of neon lights. (P.S. They also serve prosecco if you’re in the mood.)

• Free Entry, But Limited Hours: Open only on weekends, so plan ahead! They also sell custom neon pieces if you want to take a bit of the magic home.

Pro Tips:

Arrive early as it gets busy, giving you plenty of time to take in all the details. Avoid bringing large cameras, as professional photography requires permission.

2. Leighton House Museum

Step inside Leighton House Museum, and you’ll feel like you've been transported to a 19th-century Arabian palace. Once the home of Victorian artist Frederic Leighton, this hidden gem is an architectural masterpiece, blending classical European elegance with dazzling Middle Eastern influences. There are golden domes, intricate mosaics, and a jaw-dropping Arab Hall that looks straight out of a sultan’s dream.

Location & How to Get There

Kensington, West London

Public Transport:

• Tube: Take the Circle or District Line to High Street Kensington, then it’s a 10-minute walk.

By Car:

• Street parking is limited, but there are paid car parks in the area.

What to Expect Inside

• A Feast for the Eyes: Every inch of Leighton House is a work of art, from the gold-leaf ceilings to the hand-painted tiles imported from Damascus. The highlight? The Arab Hall, an opulent chamber inspired by Leighton’s travels in the Middle East, with a stunning fountain at its center.

• World-Class Art Collection: The museum houses Leighton’s personal paintings, alongside works by his Pre-Raphaelite artist friends like John Everett Millais and Edward Burne-Jones.

• Step Into the Artist’s World: This isn’t just a museum—it’s the preserved home and studio of a Victorian master. You’ll see where Leighton painted, entertained guests, and even slept in his surprisingly modest bedroom.

Pro Tips: 

• Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and take in the details at your own pace.

• Look up! The ceilings are just as stunning as the walls.

• Check their events calendar – they often host art workshops, concerts, and talks.

3. The Seven Noses of Soho

Ever wandered through Soho and spotted a random nose sticking out of a wall? No, you're not imagining things. The Seven Noses of Soho is one of London’s quirkiest scavenger hunts, created by artist Rick Buckley in 1997 as a cheeky protest against surveillance culture. He secretly installed plaster noses around the city, and while most were removed, a handful remain hidden in plain sight. The legend? If you find all seven, you’ll achieve infinite wealth (though no one’s come forward as a billionaire just yet).

Location & How to Get There

Soho & Central London

Public Transport:

• Tube: Take the Central or Northern Line to Tottenham Court Road or Leicester Square, from where you can start walking.

• Bus: Routes 14, 19, 38, or 55 will get you to Soho.

By Foot:

• This is a walking adventure, so wear comfy shoes and explore at your own pace.

What to Expect on Your Hunt

• Hidden in Plain Sight: The noses are small, subtle, and blend into their surroundings, you’ll need sharp eyes (or a few helpful clues).

• Urban Mystery: While most people walk past them without a second glance, knowing the backstory makes it feel like a secret Londoners' club.

• Great for Instagram: Once you spot one, you’ll want to snap a picture - it’s the ultimate "IYKYK" London moment.

Pro Tips:

• Start at Admiralty Arch – It has one of the most famous noses.

• Bring a friend – Two sets of eyes are better than one!

• No official map – The fun is in the hunt, but locals and online forums can drop hints.

Whether you're a street art enthusiast, a London history buff, or just someone who is looking for quirky things to do in London, hunting for the Seven Noses of Soho will be a fun, free, and offbeat way to explore the city. Who knows, you might just find your fortune!

4. Wilton’s Music Hall

Tucked away in East London, Wilton’s Music Hall is a hidden gem with a story to tell. As the world’s oldest surviving music hall, it has hosted everything from Victorian vaudeville acts to modern-day theatre and live music. Step inside, and you’ll find crumbling brick walls, vintage chandeliers, and a stage that has seen over 160 years of performances, all adding to its hauntingly beautiful charm. Whether you're here for a play, a gig, or just a drink in its atmospheric bar, Wilton’s is pure old-world magic.

Location & How to Get There

Graces Alley, Whitechapel, East London

Public Transport:

• Tube: Take the District or Hammersmith & City Line to Tower Hill or Aldgate East - and then walk to this place.

By Foot:

• Hidden down a small alley, look for the old-timey façade with faded letters, because it’s easy to miss! Make sure to keep your Google Maps on!

What to Expect Inside

• An Intimate, Historic Theatre: The hall has been lovingly restored but retains its original 19th-century charm, with a slightly worn-in feel that adds to its magic.

• Live Performances: From cabaret and jazz nights to Shakespeare plays and folk concerts, Wilton’s hosts an eclectic mix of events.

• A Characterful Bar: Even if you don’t catch a show, stop by The Mahogany Bar, a lively spot serving craft drinks and snacks under twinkling lights.

Pro Tips:

• Book early – Shows here sell out fast due to the intimate venue size.

• Arrive early – Grab a drink at the bar and soak in the atmosphere before the performance.

• Take a tour – They offer occasional guided tours if you’re keen on the hall’s fascinating history.

A visit to Wilton’s Music Hall is like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse of London’s theatrical past in a warm, welcoming, and slightly faded grandeur. 

5. Daunt Books Marylebone

If you’re a bookworm, then Daunt Books Marylebone will feel like paradise! Housed in an Edwardian-era bookstore, this literary gem is best known for its beautiful oak galleries, stained-glass windows, and travel-focused collection. Whether you’re looking for a novel set in Tokyo, a travel memoir from Patagonia, or a classic London read, Daunt Books organises its shelves by country, making browsing an adventure in itself.

Location & How to Get There

Marylebone High Street, Central London

Public Transport:

• Tube: Take the Bakerloo Line to Baker Street or the Jubilee Line to Bond Street - both are a 10-minute walk away.

By Foot:

• A scenic stroll from Regent’s Park makes for a perfect bookish afternoon.

What to Expect Inside

• A Travel-Lover’s Bookstore: Unlike regular bookstores, Daunt Books organises everything by country, so you’ll find fiction, nonfiction, and travel guides grouped together—making it feel like a literary world tour.

• Gorgeous Architecture: With its wood-paneled balconies, skylit ceiling, and antique charm, it’s often called one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.

• Curated Reads & Signed Editions: Their collection is carefully selected, and you’ll often find exclusive editions and signed copies of books.

Pro Tips:

• Visit on a weekday for a quieter, more peaceful browsing experience.

• Check their events calendar – Daunt Books hosts author talks, book launches, and literary evenings.

• Bring a tote bag – You’ll likely leave with more books than you planned!

Whether you’re a travel enthusiast, an avid reader, or just someone who appreciates a stunning bookstore, Daunt Books Marylebone is a must-visit literary landmark to explore in London. 

6. Eel Pie Island

This tiny, privately-owned island in Twickenham has a fascinating history because it was once home to a famous 1960s music venue where bands like The Rolling Stones, The Who, and Pink Floyd played. Over the years, it transformed into a bohemian haven for artists, musicians, and free spirits. Today, while most of the island remains closed to the public, it opens its doors a few times a year for art exhibitions and open studio events, offering a rare glimpse into its creative world.

Location & How to Get There

Twickenham, West London

Public Transport:

• Train: Take a South Western Railway train from Waterloo to Twickenham (about 20 minutes), then it’s a 10-minute walk to the island.

• Bus: Routes 33, R68, R70, 281, and 290 stop nearby.

By Foot:

• Access is via a small footbridge from Twickenham’s riverside.

What to Expect on the Island

• A Legendary Music Past: Once home to the Eel Pie Island Hotel, this now-lost venue was a hotbed of 1960s rock and blues, hosting iconic bands before it burned down in the 1970s.

• A Bohemian Artist Community: The island is now home to a collective of painters, sculptors, and craftspeople, many of whom open their studios for visitors during special events.

• Secluded Riverside Views: With its tucked-away location, the island offers a rare, offbeat escape from London’s usual hustle.

Pro Tips:

• Plan ahead – The island is private, so check for open days when artist studios welcome visitors.

• Visit the Twickenham Museum – It has exhibits on the island’s music history if you can’t access the site itself.

• Explore the riverside – Nearby pubs and cafes along the Thames make for a perfect post-visit stop.

7. Little Venice

Nestled where the Regent’s Canal meets the Grand Union Canal, Little Venice is one of London’s most picturesque hidden corners. With colorful houseboats, waterside cafes, and tree-lined walkways, this charming neighborhood feels worlds away from the city’s hustle. Whether you take a leisurely stroll along the towpath, hop on a canal boat to Camden, or relax with coffee at a waterside café, Little Venice offers a peaceful escape with a touch of old-world charm.

Location & How to Get There

Paddington/Maida Vale, West London

Public Transport:

• Tube: Take the Bakerloo Line to Warwick Avenue, Little Venice is a 5-minute walk from the station.

• Train: Paddington Station is about 10 minutes away on foot.

What to Expect Around the Canal

• Scenic Walks: Stroll along the Regent’s Canal towpath, passing quaint houseboats and hidden gardens.

• Canal Boat Rides: Hop on a narrowboat to Camden Market or take a scenic waterbus to the London Zoo.

• Riverside Cafes & Pubs: Enjoy a drink at The Waterside Café, a floating café on a narrowboat, or relax at The Bridge House, a cozy pub with canal views.

Pro Tips:

• Take a morning walk for the most peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive.

• Book a narrowboat cruise if you want to explore Camden via the canal.

• Visit in spring when cherry blossoms and wisteria add to the area’s charm.

8. Sir John Soane’s Museum

Step inside Sir John Soane’s Museum, and you’ll find a treasure trove of art, antiques, and architectural oddities, all crammed into a beautifully preserved Georgian townhouse. Once home to the famous neoclassical architect Sir John Soane, this museum is unlike any other in London - think hidden doors, secret passageways, and walls that unfold to reveal entire galleries. With everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to paintings by Turner and Canaletto, it’s a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a collector who never knew when to stop.

Location & How to Get There

Lincoln’s Inn Fields, Holborn, Central London

Public Transport:

• Tube: Take the Central or Piccadilly Line to Holborn, and from there, the museum is a 5-minute walk away.

• Bus: Routes 1, 59, 68, 91, and 188 stop nearby.

By Foot:

• A short walk from Covent Garden or the British Museum makes it an easy addition to a cultural day out.

What to Expect Inside

• An Eclectic Collection: From Roman sculptures to Hogarth paintings, every inch of the house is packed with rare finds.

• Hidden Architecture Tricks: Walls that swing open to reveal more artwork and a crypt-like basement filled with curiosities.

• A Time Capsule Atmosphere: The museum is preserved exactly as Soane left it in 1837, making it feel like stepping back in time.

Pro Tips:

• Entry is free but visiting on weekdays tends to be quieter.

• Bring a keen eye—there are over 40,000 objects, many tucked away in unexpected corners.

• Visit during a candlelit evening opening for an even more atmospheric experience.

9. Sky Garden

High above the city streets, Sky Garden is London’s lushest indoor oasis, offering panoramic skyline views without the hefty ticket price. Perched at the top of the Walkie Talkie building, this free-to-visit space combines tropical greenery, floor-to-ceiling windows, and open-air terraces for a breathtaking experience. Whether you're here to watch the sunrise, sip a cocktail at sunset, or simply take in the sights, Sky Garden is one of the best spots in the city to soak up London from above.

Location & How to Get There

Fenchurch Street, City of London

Public Transport:

• Tube: Take the District or Circle Line to Monument, and then Sky Garden will be a 5-minute walk away.

• Train: Fenchurch Street Station is just around the corner.

By Foot:

• A short stroll from the Tower of London or Leadenhall Market makes it easy to add to a sightseeing day.

What to Expect Inside

• Spectacular City Views: From The Shard to St Paul’s Cathedral, you get a 360-degree panorama of London’s skyline.

• Lush Greenery: Exotic plants and Mediterranean ferns create a serene garden setting high above the city.

• Bars & Restaurants: Enjoy a coffee at Sky Pod Bar or book a table at Darwin Brasserie for a meal with a view.

Pro Tips:

• Entry is free, but you must book a ticket in advance on their website.

• Visit at sunset for the most magical golden-hour views.

• Walk-ins are allowed for the bars, but dining reservations fill up fast.

10. Hidden Roman Temple of Mithras

Beneath the bustling streets of London lies one of the city's most extraordinary archaeological sites - the Temple of Mithras. Dating back to the 3rd century, this underground temple was dedicated to Mithras, a mysterious Roman god associated with strength and light. Lost for centuries and rediscovered in the 1950s, the temple has been carefully reconstructed beneath the Bloomberg building, complete with dramatic lighting, soundscapes, and ancient artifacts that bring this hidden piece of Roman London back to life.

Location & How to Get There

Bloomberg SPACE, Walbrook, City of London

Public Transport:

• Tube: Take the Central or Northern Line to Bank Station—the entrance is a 2-minute walk away.

• Train: Cannon Street Station is 5 minutes on foot.

• Bus: Routes 8, 11, 26, and 76 stop nearby.

By Foot:

• A short walk from St. Paul’s Cathedral or London Bridge, making it an easy stop on a historical London itinerary.

What to Expect Inside

• A Journey Back to Roman London: The immersive experience takes you through the history of the temple, from its rediscovery to its ancient purpose.

• Atmospheric Lighting & Soundscapes: Step into the dimly lit ruins, where mist and echoes recreate the eerie, sacred atmosphere of the temple’s past.

• Ancient Artifacts: See original Roman relics, including inscriptions, sculptures, and offerings left by worshippers nearly 2,000 years ago.

Pro Tips:

• Entry is free, but advance booking is recommended for a timed slot.

• Visit on a weekday for a quieter, more immersive experience.

• Take your time in the museum section upstairs, which provides context on Roman London before heading underground.

11. Dennis Severs’ House

Step through the doors of Dennis Severs’ House, and you’ll feel like you’re walking into a story. This immersive time capsule in Spitalfields recreates the home of a fictional Huguenot silk-weaving family, frozen in time as if they’ve just stepped out. Flickering candlelight, half-eaten meals, and the distant sound of a horse-drawn carriage make it feel like you’ve traveled straight into 18th and 19th-century London.

Location & How to Get There

18 Folgate Street, Spitalfields, East London

Public Transport:

• Tube: Take the Central, Hammersmith & City, or District Line to Liverpool Street—the house is a 5-minute walk away.

• Overground: Shoreditch High Street Station is 7 minutes on foot.

• Bus: Routes 8, 26, 35, 47, and 149 stop nearby.

What to Expect Inside

• A House Like No Other: Each room tells a different chapter of the family’s life, from their prosperous beginnings to their slow decline.

• Live the Story: Unlike traditional museums, there are no labels or explanations—just the sights, sounds, and scents of a home seemingly left untouched for centuries.

• An Unforgettable Atmosphere: With low lighting, creaking floors, and hushed whispers in the background, it feels like the family might return at any moment.

Pro Tips:

• Book in advance—this is one of London’s most sought-after hidden gems.

• Visit in the evening for an even more atmospheric, candlelit experience.

• Silence is encouraged—let the rooms speak for themselves as you take in the details.

12. The Vaults Waterloo

Hidden beneath Waterloo Station, The Vaults is London’s most eclectic underground arts space, where immersive theatre, experimental performances, and vibrant street art collide. This maze of tunnels, covered in ever-changing graffiti, hosts everything from avant-garde plays and cabaret nights to interactive dining experiences and pop-up exhibitions. Whether you’re here for a bold new performance, an offbeat art show, or just to soak up the creative chaos, The Vaults guarantees a night out that’s anything but ordinary.

Location & How to Get There

Leake Street, Waterloo, South Bank

Public Transport:

• Tube & Train: Take the Bakerloo, Jubilee, or Northern Line to Waterloo Station—The Vaults is a 2-minute walk away.

• Bus: Routes 1, 26, 59, 68, and 172 stop nearby.

By Foot:

• Located just under Waterloo’s Leake Street graffiti tunnel, it’s easy to combine with a visit to South Bank or Lower Marsh Market.

What to Expect Inside

• Immersive Theatre & Live Performances: Expect the unexpected—from surreal, interactive plays to underground comedy and drag shows.

• Street Art Wonderland: The entrance is via Leake Street Tunnel, one of London’s biggest legal graffiti walls, where artists constantly refresh the murals.

• A Bohemian Underground Vibe: With neon lights, quirky installations, and dimly lit tunnels, The Vaults feels like stepping into another world.

Pro Tips:

• Check the schedule in advance—events change regularly, and some performances sell out fast.

• Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be navigating dimly lit tunnels and experimental spaces.

• Explore the Leake Street Tunnel while you're there—it's one of London's most dynamic street art hubs.

13. The Hunterian Museum

Tucked inside the Royal College of Surgeons, The Hunterian Museum is one of London’s most intriguing (and slightly eerie) hidden gems. This historic medical collection, founded by 18th-century surgeon John Hunter, houses thousands of anatomical specimens, surgical tools, and preserved curiosities. From centuries-old skeletons to preserved organs and medical oddities, it’s a fascinating (and sometimes unsettling) glimpse into the history of surgery and human anatomy.

Location & How to Get There

Royal College of Surgeons, Lincoln’s Inn Fields, Holborn

Public Transport:

• Tube: Take the Central or Piccadilly Line to Holborn, and from there, the museum is a 5-minute walk away.

• Bus: Routes 1, 59, 68, 91, and 188 stop nearby.

By Foot:

• A short walk from Sir John Soane’s Museum, making it easy to visit both in one trip.

What to Expect Inside

• A Cabinet of Medical Curiosities: See preserved body parts, skeletal deformities, and early surgical tools used in past centuries.

• Historic Surgical Instruments: From Victorian-era amputation saws to early prosthetics, explore the evolution of surgery.

• The Legacy of John Hunter: Learn about one of history’s most famous surgeons, whose research shaped modern medicine.

Pro Tips:

• Entry is free, but it’s best to check opening times in advance.

• Not for the squeamish—some specimens can be unsettling, but history buffs and medical enthusiasts will love it.

• Pair it with a visit to the nearby British Museum for a full day of history and discovery.

For those who are curious about medical history, science, or the strange and macabre, The Hunterian Museum is a one-of-a-kind experience that’s both educational and unforgettable.

14. Camden’s Cyberdog

Step inside Cyberdog, where you’re not just shopping but you’re entering a futuristic, neon-drenched rave universe. This legendary Camden store is a temple to all things cyberpunk, techno, and sci-fi, filled with glowing clubwear, LED accessories, and robotic dancers. With thumping electronic music, UV-lit interiors, and even a secret underground club, Cyberdog is a sensory overload in the best possible way. Whether you're here to find the perfect festival outfit or just to experience the madness, this place is unlike any other shop in London.

Location & How to Get There

Camden Market, Chalk Farm Road, Camden

Public Transport:

• Tube: Take the Northern Line to Camden Town—Cyberdog is a 5-minute walk inside Camden Market.

• Bus: Routes 24, 27, 31, and 168 stop nearby.

By Foot:

• Easily combined with a visit to Camden Lock, Stables Market, or Regent’s Canal.

What to Expect Inside

• Neon, LEDs & UV Madness: Every inch of the store is glowing, flashing, or pulsing to the beat of electronic music.

• Rave-Ready Fashion: Find everything from futuristic clubwear and neon bodysuits to goggles, light-up shoes, and holographic accessories.

• Live DJs & Robot Dancers: Yes, you might see actual cyber dancers on podiums, adding to the surreal atmosphere.

Pro Tips:

• Even if you’re not into rave fashion, go for the experience—it’s like stepping into a sci-fi film.

• Photos are not allowed inside, so soak it all in while you’re there.

• Weekends are busiest, but that’s when Cyberdog is at its wildest.

15. Highgate Cemetery

One of London’s most atmospheric and hauntingly beautiful places, Highgate Cemetery is a gothic masterpiece filled with ivy-covered tombs, winding pathways, and grand Victorian mausoleums. Split into two sections, the East Cemetery is the final resting place of Karl Marx, while the West Cemetery, accessible only by guided tour, is home to elaborate catacombs, Egyptian-style tombs, and the eerie Circle of Lebanon. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or just enjoy a touch of the macabre, Highgate Cemetery is one of the city’s most evocative hidden gems.

Location & How to Get There

Swain’s Lane, Highgate, North London

Public Transport:

• Tube: Take the Northern Line to Archway Station—the cemetery is a 10-minute uphill walk.

• Bus: Routes 143, 210, and 271 stop nearby.

By Foot:

• Located near Hampstead Heath, making it easy to pair with a walk through the park or a visit to Kenwood House.

What to Expect Inside

• Victorian Gothic Architecture: Ornate statues, crumbling angels, and ivy-draped tombs create an eerie yet beautiful setting.

• Famous Graves: Visit the resting places of Karl Marx, George Eliot, and Douglas Adams, among others.

• West Cemetery Tour: Access to the most dramatic and haunting sections, including the Egyptian Avenue and the Circle of Lebanon, is only possible via a guided tour.

Pro Tips:

• Book in advance for a West Cemetery tour, as spots fill up fast.

• Wear sturdy shoes—the paths can be uneven, especially in autumn and winter.

• Photography is allowed, but respect the tranquility of the space.

16. The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town

Tucked away behind a Smeg fridge in a breakfast café, The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town is one of London’s most playful and well-hidden speakeasies. Located inside The Breakfast Club in Spitalfields, this underground bar is a cozy, dimly lit retreat with vintage décor, creative cocktails, and a cheeky atmosphere. To enter, just tell the café staff “I’m here to see the Mayor”, and they’ll lead you through the fridge into this hidden drinking den.

Location & How to Get There

12-16 Artillery Lane, Spitalfields, East London

Public Transport:

• Tube: Take the Central, Circle, or Hammersmith & City Line to Liverpool Street—it’s a 5-minute walk.

• Bus: Routes 8, 26, 35, 47, and 149 stop nearby.

By Foot:

• Easy to pair with a visit to Spitalfields Market, Brick Lane, or Dennis Severs’ House.

What to Expect Inside

• Secret Entrance: Walk through an innocent-looking Smeg fridge to discover the speakeasy.

• Low-Lit, Cozy Vibes: Think candlelit tables, exposed brick walls, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.

• Inventive Cocktails: Expect creative twists on classics, plus house specials with a touch of humor.

Pro Tips:

• Ask for “the Mayor” at the café entrance! No password, no entry.

• Weekends get busy, so arrive early or be prepared for a wait.

• Order food at The Breakfast Club first for a smoother chance of getting in.

17. Mail Rail at The Postal Museum

Hidden beneath London’s streets, the Mail Rail is a tiny underground train that once whisked mail across the city, unseen by the public for nearly a century. Now, at The Postal Museum, you can hop aboard this historic railway, squeezing into a narrow carriage for a subterranean ride through abandoned tunnels. With immersive projections, historic exhibits, and a peek into London’s secret postal past, this is a truly unique underground adventure.

Location & How to Get There

15-20 Phoenix Place, Clerkenwell, London

Public Transport:

• Tube: Take the Metropolitan, Circle, or Hammersmith & City Line to Farringdon—the museum is a 10-minute walk.

• Bus: Routes 17, 46, 63, and 259 stop nearby.

By Foot:

• Close to Exmouth Market and the Charles Dickens Museum, making it easy to explore more of Clerkenwell.

What to Expect Inside

• A Ride Through History: Board a miniature mail train for a 15-minute journey through the original 100-year-old tunnels.

• Immersive Storytelling: Projections and sound effects bring the tunnels to life with tales of wartime secrecy and forgotten workers.

• The Postal Museum Exhibits: Explore the history of London’s postal system, from Victorian mail coaches to quirky stamps and vintage postboxes.

Pro Tips:

• Book tickets in advance, as rides often sell out.

• Not ideal for claustrophobic visitors—the tunnels and carriages are quite small.

• Pair it with a visit to nearby Smithfield Market for a great historic day out.

18. The Sherlock Holmes Pub & Museum

For fans of the world’s most famous detective, The Sherlock Holmes Pub & Museum is the ultimate pilgrimage. This Victorian-era townhouse at 221B Baker Street has been transformed into a meticulously recreated living space, complete with Holmes’ study, Watson’s quarters, and cases of mysterious artifacts. Just a short walk away, The Sherlock Holmes Pub in Westminster offers a themed dining experience, with memorabilia, classic British fare, and a cozy detective-inspired atmosphere.

Location & How to Get There

Museum: 221B Baker Street, Marylebone
Pub: 10 Northumberland Street, Westminster

Public Transport:

• Museum: Take the Bakerloo, Jubilee, or Metropolitan Line to Baker Street—it’s a 2-minute walk.

• Pub: The nearest tube station is Charing Cross or Embankment, both a 5-minute walk.

By Foot:

• The museum is close to Regent’s Park, perfect for a post-visit stroll.

What to Expect Inside

• Sherlock’s Study: See Holmes’ desk, violin, and detective tools, all arranged as if he just stepped out.

• Historic Memorabilia: Cases filled with letters, books, and Victorian-era props from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s stories.

• Themed Dining at the Pub: Enjoy a pint and classic British dishes while surrounded by Holmes-inspired decor.

Pro Tips:

• The museum is small, so book tickets in advance to avoid long waits.

• The pub gets busy in the evenings—visit during lunch for a quieter experience.

• Great for both die-hard Sherlock fans and lovers of Victorian London.

19. London’s Abandoned Tube Stations Tour

Beneath the bustling streets of London lies a hidden world of ghost stations, unused platforms, and wartime secrets. The Abandoned Tube Stations Tour, run by the London Transport Museum, takes you on an exclusive underground journey into stations long forgotten by commuters. From the eerie tunnels of Aldwych to the wartime bunkers of Down Street, this tour is a rare opportunity to step into London’s hidden history.

Location & How to Get There

Various locations across London (tours depart from designated stations)

Public Transport:

• Meeting points vary. The London Transport Museum provides detailed instructions upon booking.

By Foot:

• Many ghost stations are located near Central London landmarks, making it easy to explore the area before or after your tour.

What to Expect Inside

• Abandoned Platforms & Tunnels: Walk through forgotten tube stations, frozen in time.

• Secret Wartime History: Learn how some stations were converted into WWII shelters and secret government hideouts.

• Exclusive Access: These locations are off-limits to the public, making it a truly unique experience.

Pro Tips:

• Tours sell out quickly, so book well in advance.

• Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s plenty of walking and uneven ground.

• Photography is allowed, but some areas may have restrictions.

20. Afternoon Tea on a Double-Decker Bus

What’s better than a classic afternoon tea? Enjoying it while touring London’s most iconic landmarks. The Afternoon Tea Bus is a moving tea room, where you can sip Earl Grey, nibble on delicate finger sandwiches, and indulge in clotted cream scones, all while taking in views of Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Thames.

Location & How to Get There

Departures from Victoria Coach Station or Trafalgar Square

Public Transport:

• Tube: Take the Victoria, Circle, or District Line to Victoria Station, or the Bakerloo or Northern Line to Charing Cross.

By Foot:

• Close to major landmarks like Westminster Abbey and St. James’s Park, perfect for a pre- or post-tea stroll.

What to Expect Onboard

• Classic Afternoon Tea: A selection of tea, sandwiches, pastries, and scones with clotted cream.

• Panoramic Sightseeing: Ride past London’s most famous sights while enjoying your treats.

• Charming Vintage Bus Interior: Think retro vibes, comfy seats, and elegant tea settings.

Pro Tips:

• Book in advance, as these tours are popular, especially on weekends.

• Dietary options available—mention preferences when booking.

• Arrive early to get the best window seats for sightseeing.

It’s time to experience London beyond the obvious!

So, you've wandered through London's iconic streets, marveled at Big Ben, sipped a pint in a centuries-old pub, and maybe even taken a selfie with a red phone booth (we won’t judge). But beyond the postcard-perfect sights, London hides a world of eccentric, unexpected, and delightfully offbeat experiences that make the city truly unforgettable.

What sets London apart isn’t just its history, it’s the way the city constantly reinvents itself. One moment, you’re stepping into a hidden speakeasy behind a fridge, the next, you’re gliding through an abandoned mail tunnel deep beneath the streets. You might stumble upon a secret underground music hall, discover a neon-lit wonderland in an old warehouse, or join a scavenger hunt for mysterious street art.

And remember, the best London stories rarely come from ticking off a checklist. Take a wrong turn, follow that intriguing sign, say yes to something unexpected. Because in this city, the real magic happens when you step beyond the obvious!