London is one of the most stunning cities you can visit in Europe. The general heartbeat of the city, fascinating history and mind-blowing historical monuments are all reasons why London attracts astounding amounts of tourists every single year. The capital of England enjoyed no less than 16.8 million visitors in 2013 alone, with the numbers on the rise each year. Points of interest such as the Tower of London, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, Palace of Westminster, the Natural History Museum, the Tower Bridge, Big Ben or the National Gallery are some of the main reasons why so many people decide to visit London every year, but how about the hot spots that mostly only the locals know about? You would be surprised to find out how many delightful hidden gems can be found on the Thames city. In addition to the well-known landmarks, these hidden gems will create a unique experience from an exclusive viewpoint. Check out our top 8 hidden gems in London and make sure you pay them a visit when you travel there!
1. Wilton’s Music Hall
As far as hidden gems as concerned, Wilton’s Music Hall deserves its place on the top of our list regarding London. First of all, it can prove to be a challenge to find, but when you arrive, you instantly fall in love. Visitors are welcomed by a warm-colored neon sign that makes you think of retro times and sets you in the mood. Many tourists praise the place as being like a film set, with excellent cocktails and wonderful music. The venue itself actually dates back to the middle of the 19th century and sets the ambiance for a memorable night out with friends or family.
2. The Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising
If you are into not so conventional points of interest, then you have to check out the Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising when you visit London. The huge collection offered at the museum really takes you on a trip back to certain periods of time through the brands that people used. Even though it isn’t (by far) the largest museum in London, it makes up for its lack of space with an impressive amount of exhibits. If you have a curious taste in culture, than this museum definitely needs to be on your travel itinerary.
3. Fan Museum
One of the most surprising hidden gems in London is the Fan Museum. Yes, you heard us right. The English have dedicated an entire museum to the culture of fans. The amazing part is that it is the only fan museum in the entire world and it stands out through a unique beauty and insight. Nevertheless, the museum is not very large (it only has three rooms) but it is totally worthwhile if you want to enjoy London like an authentic traveler.
4. The Charles Dickens Museum
If you are a big fan of literature, you should consider visiting the Charles Dickens museum. It is hosted by the only house in London that Charles Dickens lived in that is still standing today. The world-renowned author lived there from 1837-1839 and left behind valuable editions of his books for visitors to enjoy. The funny part is that you would not expect the house to be a museum in the first place; what sets it apart from the other houses nearby is a tiny sign in front.
5. Holland Park
When speaking about natural hidden gems like unknown parks, Holland Park is one of the most popular jewels for hunters. The great part about the park is that it lacks the crowds you seem you can never get rid of in London. It is an exceptional choice for an intimate lunch out in fresh air, with beautiful and inspiring scenery all around you. One of the attractions of Holland Park is their stunning Japanese garden that comes with an exquisite peacock visitors can admire.
6. Dennis Severs’ House
There really is no other experience out there like the Dennis Severs’ house. The story behind the house and its owner will blow your mind and you will want to drop everything and visit it the very next moment. Before venturing out to 18 Folgate Street, make sure you read the entire plot and about the tour on the official website of the house, as it will enhance your entire experience. To put it in a nutshell, Dennis Severs describes the mission of the house like this: The house’s ten rooms harbor ten ‘spells’ that engage the visitor’s imagination in moods that dominated the periods between 1724-1914. Your senses are your guide.” The house motto is actually “either you see it or you don’t”, so you can expect anything from it. Curious enough yet?
7. The Freemasons’ Hall
One of the most controversial subjects in modern day society actually serves as a breath-taking example of interior architecture in London. While the outside part of the Freemasons’ Hall building may not seem like anything out of the ordinary, the interior will literally leave you breathless. Grand marble floors and gorgeous exhibits of Art Deco will be some of the best eye candy you can enjoy while in London. Surprisingly enough, the Freemasons’ Hall is free of entrance and anybody can enjoy a guided tour while visiting.
8. The Seven Stars Pub
After a long hard day hunting and visiting hidden gems in London, you are probably dreaming of sitting down and relaxing with a beer, or “a pint” as the English would say. Before you go on a huge pub crawl, you should check out the Seven Stars Pub. Among locals, it is known as one of the best pubs in the city with great beer and even greater food. One of the most prized dishes consists in their famous meat loaf, so you might want to go for a bite to eat there next time you are feeling hungry in London.
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