Visiting London is an exciting adventure, but no one wants to stand out as an obvious tourist. What lies beyond the paparazzi-clogged streets and snapping selfie sticks? A bounty of concealed wonders, quietly beating to the rhythm of London’s quirky pulse, just waiting to be sniffed out by adventurers with an itch for the unknown. The secret’s out: we’re exposing the real deal. Forget the tourist traps and discover 15 Non-Touristy Things to Do in London – the unusual attractions and offbeat activities only locals know about.
Strike out on your own and the city will reveal its true self. Fragments of the city’s unpredictable personality – its secret art spaces, illicit nightlife, and ancestral stalwarts – await discovery, suspended like prized artifacts, waiting to be unearthed.
Explore unique Paint And Sip Events In London From Prime Pass
Hidden from plain sight is a pearl. Exclusive isn’t just a word – it’s an experience. And with Prime Pass, you’ll get to live it, breathing in the exclusivity and basking in the extra special treatment. This vibrant setting allows you to get creative and pour a glass – Sip and Paint London is where art meets social. Bringing people together and ideas to life is what gets us going – it’s the perfect combination. If you’re looking for something truly unique and artistic, attending a paint and sip event is a must.
Explore your creative side, enjoy the local atmosphere, and take home a masterpiece to remember your trip by. This is one activity that guarantees you’ll experience London like a true local – and one that will leave you with lasting memories. Let’s explore other unique adventures available in London.
1. Explore Leake Street Arches
Just around the corner from London’s pedestrian streets lies Leake Street Arches, a frenetic celebration of art, individuality, and unbridled creativity waiting to be explored. In the basement of Waterloo Station, a hub of artistic expression, mouth-watering food, and lively entertainment awaits discovery. Comprising eight transformed railway arches, this area celebrates urban culture alongside the Leake Street Tunnel, known as London’s longest legal graffiti wall. It’s a dynamic location for art lovers, with ever-changing street art providing a unique experience on each visit.
In addition to the art scene, the arches feature various independent eateries and bars, such as Draughts, a board game cafe. The Leake Street Arches also hosts live events, contributing to its lively atmosphere as a community space for exploration and celebration of urban life.
2. Wander Through the Columbia Road Flower Market
Skip the touristy markets and head to Columbia Road Flower Market London, a vibrant, local market that blooms every Sunday from 8 am to 3 pm. East London’s flower market is an urban gem. Sprawling stalls burst with vitality, crammed with succulent orchids, velvet roses, triumphant tulips, and an outpouring of other eye-popping blooms. Need a botanical boost?
Head to this cherished neighbourhood haunt, where you’ll find an astonishing array of flowers, plants, and gardening goodies to transform your yard into an oasis. On this charming street, worn cobblestones lead you past an assortment of old-timey boutiques, artisan studios, and cosy cafes where you can rest your feet and drink in the lively market vibe.
Columbia Road serves up more than just a colourful array of blooms – it’s a true East End experience, bursting with local flavour and character. The market is busiest around midday, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds and secure the best blooms.
3. Explore Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath, a vast parkland of over 800 acres, offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Unlike other London parks, Hampstead Heath is more rustic and wild, making it feel like a countryside getaway. From the city’s quiet streets, a sudden burst of grandeur emerges in the form of Parliament Hill, a symbol of Canadian identity and strength. As you step into this stunning lookout, the rhythmic pulse of London’s city life comes alive before your eyes, with epic skyscrapers, majestic monuments, and hidden gems all blending in perfect harmony. Grab a picnic and head here for a peaceful afternoon with a stunning backdrop.
Don’t forget to explore Hampstead Ponds, natural swimming pools hidden among the park’s greenery. The ponds are divided into men’s, women’s, and mixed, offering a serene swim away from the bustling city. Sitting atop a hill in North London lies Hampstead Heath, a picturesque retreat bursting with natural beauty, awaiting discovery by intrepid urban explorers. Picture a day spent meandering along scenic trails, surrounded by the gentle rustle of woodlands, and the thrill of spotting local wildlife – this haven offers just that, a perfect escape from urban chaos.
4. Take a Canal Boat Ride in Little Venice
For a tranquil escape, hop on a canal boat in Little Venice , a picturesque area where Regent’s Canal meets the Grand Union Canal. Houseboats painted in vibrant hues line the water’s edge, while charming cafés serve up treats and quiet canal cruises aboard narrowboats promise a tranquil escape. You can take a boat trip from Little Venice to Camden Town, passing through charming areas like Regent’s Park and London Zoo.
Canal boat rides offer a completely different perspective of London, far removed from the hectic pace of the streets. You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time while gliding along these historic waterways.
5. Visit the Sir John Soane’s Museum
The Sir John Soane’s Museum is one of London’s hidden treasures, nestled in Holborn. Step into the erstwhile abode of renowned architect Sir John Soane, now a museum that brims with an astonishing medley of artistic treasures, ancient relics, and oddities, all woven together in an ambiance that still echoes the architect’s creative genius. Roman masterpieces, alongside awe-inspiring paintings by Turner and Canaletto, lie scattered throughout the museum, waiting to be explored.
Venture deeper and you’ll stumble upon passageways that swerve and twirl, every available inch stacked high with relics that demand your attention. Tucked away from the beaten path, this delightful find is perfect for those who crave something more intimate and nuanced in their cultural experiences – a far cry from the massive, impersonal museums that dominate the tourist scene.
6. Explore the Markets at Camden Town
Step into Camden Market, and you’ll find yourself caught up in a whirlwind of colour, sound, and smell – a flavourful melting pot of stalls, shops, and eateries that add to the area’s quirky, charismatic appeal. This London Camden market is a fiery mix of flavours, sounds, and style, where aromatic eats, hip fashion, handcrafted goods, and foot-stomping beats come together in perfect harmony. It’s a cultural melting pot that draws locals and visitors alike but without the overly touristy feel of markets like Borough Market. Like a treasure hunt, navigating the bustling market reveals surprises at every turn. Mornings spent snacking on flavourful street eats give way to afternoons lost in an eclectic sea of artisanal goods, where one-of-a-kind relics and craftsmanship shine.
Imagine meandering through a labyrinth of streets that weave tales of art, music, and revolutionary thoughts – that’s Camden Lock, where anarchic free spirits converge, merge, and reemerge as an unstoppable creative force. Creativity pours out of every corner, infusing the neighbouring streets with an infectious enthusiasm that beckons exploration. Don’t miss the opportunity to listen to live music at one of Camden’s many pubs or catch a performance from a local street artist.
7. Cycle Through Richmond Park
For nature lovers, Richmond Park offers a peaceful retreat on the outskirts of London. With bike in hand, take a thrilling journey through the park’s untouched lands, where rustic trees loom tall, water lily pads unfurl, and grassy carpets stretch as far as the eye can see. Wild deer roam freely in Richmond Park London, and catching a glimpse of these gentle giants in their natural surroundings is a thrill that never gets old.
For a fun and different perspective on the park, grab your bike and hit the trails – there are plenty of routes to choose from, both on and off the beaten path. Among the trees and wildflowers, you’ll stumble upon secluded picnic areas, begging you to take a break, unwrap that sandwich, and savour the peaceful atmosphere.
8. Attend a Painting Event in London
If you’re looking for something creative and fun to do in London, why not attend a Sip and Paint session at Prime Pass? We host these events in East London’s urban landscape where we transform canvases into a colourful mosaic of entrepreneurial spirit and artistic expression. We’ve got the perfect recipe for destressing: add a dash of art, mix in some chill vibes, and serve with a side of me-time. Under the guidance of a talented local artist, you’ll be able to enjoy a drink (or two!) while creating your very own masterpiece on canvas.
Whether you’re an experienced painter or an absolute beginner, these sessions are designed for everyone. Gather your squad and get ready for a night to remember at the studio. With a welcoming vibe, awesome music, and a bunch of drink options, you’ll be kicking back in no time, leaving those tourist clichés behind. Be sure to book your Sip and Paint Events in London in advance through the Prime Pass website, as spots fill up fast!
Prime Pass gets you front-of-the-line access to the most coveted experiences and insider perks. Among their most attractive features are customised group packages that roll out the red carpet for corporate shindigs, bachelorette blowouts, or just plain fun times with friends.
9. Sip Afternoon Tea at a Local Café
Instead of heading to tourist-packed hotels for afternoon tea, try one of London’s many independent cafés. Places like Sketch offer unique twists on the traditional English afternoon tea, with a variety of teas, finger sandwiches, cakes, and scones to enjoy in a relaxed, local setting.
Experience the quintessential British tradition of afternoon tea in a more laid-back setting, minus the tourist chaos.
10. Discover Kew Gardens
You’ll find us situated in Richmond. Hidden away in Richmond, London, Kew Gardens unfurls its splendour, a sanctuary of beautifully landscaped gardens, greenhouses, and treasures waiting to be discovered. UNESCO has handed this exceptional botanical garden the ultimate seal of approval – World Heritage Site status – and for good reason: its sheer magnificence leaves visitors awestruck. Tucked away from the urban bustle, this oasis blooms with an incredible 50,000-plus plants – their leaves rustling, petals swaying, and bark shining, creating a magical ambiance that beckons exploration.
The Palm House, Waterlily House, and the Princess of Wales Conservatory are just a few of the must-see attractions within Kew Gardens. If London’s busy streets are draining your energy, take a step into this lush oasis – a tranquil haven where plant lovers and city fugitives can unwind.
11. Visit the Geffrye Museum (Museum of the Home)
The Geffrye Museum , recently renamed the Museum of the Home, offers a unique glimpse into British domestic life through the centuries. Walk into this Hoxton museum and you’ll be whisked away on a journey through time, tracing the dramatic changes in home decor and lifestyle from the 1600s to today.
Put yourself in the shoes of those who came before, tracing the evocative cycles of change that wove together British homes. Interiors once bustling with the essence of morning newspapers, kitchen fires, and sooted coal bring these ancestral spaces alive, revealing in painstaking detail how a nation’s heart changed its domestic pace.
12. Check Out Broadway Market
Located in the heart of Hackney, Broadway Market is a haven for foodies, art lovers, and those looking for unique fashion. Imagine strolling through a Saturday market where the senses come alive: the aroma of freshly baked bread wafts through the air, while vendor stalls tantalise with unique cheeses, international street food, and regionally crafted treasures that beg to be explored.
This is Broadway Market London, where neighbourhood roots run deep, potters and printing presses share sidewalk space, and novelists curate entire worlds within a 500-square-foot wonderland of handwritten novels and out-of-print gems. With its warm pubs and cafes sprinkled throughout, you’ll find the perfect spot to press pause and savour a lazy afternoon.
13. Visit St Luke’s Mews
Located in Notting Hill, St Luke’s Mews is one of London’s most picturesque streets, known for its pastel-coloured houses and cobbled roads. This quiet residential street is often missed by tourists but has become famous for its appearance in films like Love Actually . A serene backdrop sets the tone for a tranquil walk, while the opportunity to snap share-worthy photos lurks around every corner, just waiting to be seized.
14. Stroll Around Primrose Hill
For another amazing viewpoint, head to Primrose Hill in Regent’s Park. From this pocket-sized park, the sweeping views of central London’s towering skyscrapers will leave you speechless, especially during a sunset. Stepping into this neighbourhood is like taking a breath of fresh air – it’s a calm oasis miles away from the frenetic energy of central London.
Primrose Hill is also surrounded by charming cafés, boutiques, and traditional English pubs. You’ll love unwinding here, whether that means sauntering along, sitting pretty, or indulging in some serious people-watching.
15. Go for a Swim at Hampstead Ponds
Lastly, for an experience truly off the beaten path, head back to Hampstead Heath London and take a swim in one of its famous ponds. Year-round, locals rejoice in the tranquillity of these natural swimming ponds, but visitors often stumble upon them by happy accident.
Picture perfect, the men’s, women’s, and mixed pools create a serene atmosphere where nature enthusiasts can unwind. After your swim, take a stroll through the Heath’s wooded paths, and you might just forget you’re still in London.
Book a Session with Prime Pass Today!
If you want to have a great time in London with Your Friends, a Team Building session with Prime Pass is the way to go. Paint along with a helpful instructor with a glass of Prosecco in hand and unleash that artistic flair you’ve always possessed.
Get your gang together and book a Team Building session in London.
