We already know that London is a plentiful host of things to see and do but delve in beyond the well-known tourist attractions and you will discover a range of hidden gems you didn’t even know existed. With only a short ride into England’s great capital with Southeastern, you can leave the car at home and uncover a side of it you’ve never seen before:
Take a walk through the great British countryside
Yes, in London. Clearly signposted with signs displaying the G-C logo and the words ‘Green Chain Walk’, you can discover more than 50 miles of fields, parks and woodlands. Don’t worry, you don’t need to cover the marathonesque distance in a single day – the walk is split up into 11 sections allowing you to explore it at your own pace over several visits.
Savour the tranquillity of a Japanese garden
Gifted by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce in 1992 in order to celebrate the Japanese festival, the Kyoto Garden in Holland Park provides a peaceful place to sit and reflect. Surround yourself with its relaxing waterfalls, the still waters of the ponds and while away the hours as you watch the Koi carp swim by.
Light up London… with a fart
Okay, so it might not be the most elegant of subtitles you’ll come across or the most interactive of places to visit but let’s face it, the kids will love it, if only for the few minutes it will take to see it. Tucked away behind the Savoy Hotel sits the very last Webb Patent Sewer Gas Lamp. These lamps were created to utilise the methane rising above London’s sewers in order to transform it into light. Before you get too excited and start tucking away those fibrous snacks in anticipation, this is actually only a replica of the real thing. Sorry to disappoint.
Visit a windmill
Free to visit but advisable to pre-book in advance, the west end of Blenheim Gardens is home to Ashby’s Mill – also known simply as Brixton Windmill. This restored Grade II mill was originally built in Surrey and celebrates its 200th birthday this year. To celebrate it will be hosting a range of events including free Tai Chi classes from Easter until October.
Get up close to a Chinese pagoda
With ten storeys over 163 feet, this design by William Chambers certainly leaves much to be admired. Designed in 1762 it is now due to undergo a restoration project. Unfortunately, visitors are not able to climb this magnificent structure but it’s well worth a visit to appreciate its beauty for yourself.
Appreciate Italian art
This Grade II listed Georgian building in N1’s Canonbury Square is home to a range of modern Italian art created by artists from Boccioni to Morandi thanks to the Estorick Collection of Italian Modern Art Museum. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, entry is only £5 for adults and free to school aged children and holders of valid NUS cards.
Take a trip down memory lane
Visit the Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising and delve into a retro world of design and display. Take a trip to Notting Hilll and prepare yourself for trip down memory lane you thought you had long forgotten!
Take some time for messing around on the water…
…in London’s very own Little Venice. Take a walk along the riverside to Camden or Regent’s Park and stop at one of the many bars, cafes or pubs while you watch life on the water roll by.
Whichever adventure you’re in store for, you’re only a short trip away via Southeastern. For their latest travel schedules or to book your next journey, visit their site.
Do you have a hidden gem in London you love? Do share it with us in the comments below!
This post was brought to you in partnership with Southeastern. Photo Credit: Dr Neil Clifton.
