London is a city brimming with vibrant culture, historical significance and numerous iconic landmarks many dream of visiting. While the city’s many renowned museums and attractions are well-worth visiting, there is much of London to explore that offer unique experiences away from the usual tourist trails. These underrated gems allow a visitor to experience a more intimate and authentic view of the city’s rich culture, storied history and natural beauty, beyond the hustle and bustle of the London glitz and glamour.
As London Fashion Week kicks off and welcomes an influx of excited tourists, is it only right to highlight some of the breathtaking yet less talked-about spots in the city that offer an authentic glimpse of the romantic English charm. From the architectural splendour of Wilton’s Music Hall to the picturesque retreat of The Hill Garden and Pergola, LUXUO lists 10 of the most spectacular underrated spots to visit in London.
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The Painted Hall, Greenwich
The Painted Hall in London — located within the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich — is often considered an underrated gem, overshadowed by the city’s more famous attractions like the British or the Natural History Museum. Known as the “Sistine Chapel of the UK”, the age-old gem boasts Baroque interiors, adorned with intricate and breathtaking ceiling and wall paintings by Sir James Thornhill finished in the 1700s. The hall is one of the main spectacles, originally intended as a dining hall for naval veterans in the early 18th century but has become a stunning artistic and historical masterpiece within the heritage centre. Full of grandeur, symbolism and beauty, The Painted Hall offers visitors a glimpse of the storied past of England. For those looking to combine a love of art and history, this hidden treasure is a perfect stop to include on one’s London itinerary.
The Hill Garden and Pergola, Hampstead Heath
The Hill Garden and Pergola is the ideal spot to seek tranquility and to enjoy peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle of the busy city. Not to be mistaken for the more frequented nearby park Hampstead Heath, this hidden gem is a serene and slightly forgotten garden, with an enchanting raised walkway covered in wisteria, vines, and a spectacular pergola. The stunning structure was built in the early 20th century by Lord Leverhulme, designed to be a grand addition to his manor, that acted as a location for garden parties. Over the many years, it has transformed into a quiet, atmospheric retreat, with the slightly decayed, overgrown yet charming ambiance that adds a unique romantic and magical quality. The Hill Garden and Pergola offers stunning views, peaceful pathways, and a perfect backdrop for photography, making it one of the city’s most enchanting underrated spots.
Osterly House and Park, Jersey Road
Osterley House and Park, located in West London, is an underrated gem and a neo-classical masterpiece, originally a Tudor house built centuries ago the 1570s by Sir Thomas Gresham. Offering a unique blend of grand architecture and serene nature, the Osterly House and Park is a whimsical escape from the bustling urban landscape of London. The house boasts lavish interiors, with beautiful rooms that reflect the opulence of Georgian England and a vast 350 acres of picturesque gardens, lakes, and meadows. The location was once home to movie sets in the 1930s and is the image of old English affluence and full of grandeur and historical significance. For those in search of London’s quieter, less-touristy attractions the Osterly House and Park is ideal for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
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Little Venice, West London
Experience the beauty and vibrance offered by the floating city of Venice all within the fast-paced area of central London. London’s Little Venice has a unique charm — located where the Grand Union Canal meets the Regent’s Canal — London visitors have the opportunity to have the best of both worlds with the peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, minutes from the luxuriously lined streets. Little Venice is best known for picturesque waterways, narrowboats, and tree-lined paths, appearing almost village-like. A notable characteristic of Little Venice is that visitors are free to explore the canal network, either by foot or by taking a boat trip to nearby more tourist-trodden attractions like Camden Market or Regent’s Park. The Italian-inspired area is lined with quaint cafes, pubs, and waterside restaurants, perfect for a relaxing evening by the water.
Wilton’s Music Hall, Graces Alley
The Wilton Music Hall is one of the oldest surviving music halls in the world and a tangible relic of England’s theatrical past. Wilton Music Hall was constructed from five houses and a pub tucked away in the east end of London and was finished back in 1853, yet still maintains much of the original charm and character till this day. The hall — with its weathered walls, ornate balcony, and atmospheric old-school lighting — exudes a unique, faded grandeur reminiscent Victorian London. The historical building has seen centuries-worth of musical talents and has been carefully restored to serve as a live performance space for theatre, music, and comedy while impressively staying true to the historical authenticity. Another factor that makes the Wilton Music Hall so exceptional is the dramatic contrast with the polished landmark theatres of London’s west end. Visitors looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations can experience the intimate and slightly shabby-chic ambiance yet vibrant atmosphere typically overlooked by many tourists.
Tulip Stairs, Queen’s House, Romney Road
A holiday is not complete without some breathtaking photos to remember the trip by, and the Tulip Stairs are the perfect place for unique photo opportunities. The Tulip Stairs — nestled within Queen’s House in Greenwich — is an underrated architectural marvel in London. This fantastical, spiral staircase is the first self-supporting spiral staircase in Britain, designed in the early 17th century by architect Inigo Jones. The name originates from the tulip-shaped flowers in the wrought iron railing, a stunning image of early modern design and the impeccable skill of the creator in blending style and engineering. While the winding staircase is the hidden highlight, the Queen’s House itself is an exceptional building that boasts much historical significance and the timeless quality of old English design.
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Sir John Soane Museum, Lincoln’s Inn Fields
The Sir John Soane’s Museum is one of London’s most fascinating yet often overlooked cultural treasures. Located conveniently within Central London in Holborn, the unique building was once the home of the renowned neoclassical architect Sir John Soane — the genius mind behind the Bank of England and other iconic buildings. The museum could be best described as an eccentric yet classical time capsule. The space packed full of Soane’s extensive collection of art, antiquities, and architectural curiosities and experiments, offering visitors an opportunity to wonder at the building blocks of the famous Sir John Soane. The space was meticulously and intricately planned to display his collection in innovative and often surprising ways. Soane made clever use of natural light and mirrors to create a sense of grandeur in a relatively small space, which was a method he was well-known for. The small space, densely packed with ornate works creates an intimate and personal feel, allowing visitors to step into the mind of an iconic an architectural genius.
Kyoto Garden Kensington, Holland Park
While the classical English gardens are magnificent and grand, the glamorous area of Kensington is home to a sensational Japanese garden, nestled in the heart of the city. The traditional Kyoto Garden is located within Holland Park in Kensington and was gifted to London by the city of Kyoto back in 1991 as a symbol of friendship between the two nations. The garden boasts pristine landscaped elements including tranquil ponds, stone lanterns, tiered waterfalls, and manicured trees, with each element thoughtfully designed to evoke a sense of calm and harmony in each and every visitor. In addition to flawless foliage, traditional elements of a Japanese garden are complete with majestic koi fish swimming in the pond and wandering peacocks. If one is seeking a spot for reflection, relaxation, or a quiet stroll, the Kyoto Garden is ideal.
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Horniman Museum and Gardens, Forest Hill
Boasting a culturally diverse blend of anthropology, natural history, and art, the Horiman Museum and Gardens is an eclectic historical gem. Founded in 1901 by tea trader Frederick John Horniman, the museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including a famous Victorian taxidermy collection, international musical instruments, and fascinating exhibits on a variety of global cultures. The compelling draw of the Horniman Museum lies in the educational family-friendly atmosphere and interactive displays. The highlights include the iconic overstuffed walrus, the vibrant Aquarium, and the World Gallery, which explores and celebrates human creativity and diversity. Beyond the colorful works of art is the whimsical 16-acre gardens. The abundant landscape features a butterfly house, a medicinal garden, and a sunken garden. Visitors can also embark on an animal walk, where visitors can see alpacas, goats, and other animals.
Parkland Walk, Florence Road
The Parkland Walk is not the typical image of London but it is a magnificent experience to admire the hidden treasures the English capital has to offer. The walk is a green corridor that follows the route of a disused railway line between Finsbury Park and Alexandra Palace. Stretching over six kilometres, it is the longest linear nature reserve in London and offers wooded escape from the city’s hustle. Abundantly lined with lush trees, wildflowers, and overgrown platforms from the old railway stations, the walk is full of charm and vibrancy. While on the walk, visitors may chance upon unique landmarks, like the famous Spriggan sculpture, a mysterious figure tucked and moulded into an old railway arch. The Parkland Walk is perfect for nature lovers, as it provides a haven for wildlife, with foxes, birds, and butterflies often spotted accompanying visitors along the trail.
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