London is a city full of surprises. While most visitors rush to see Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye, the real magic of London is in the places many tourists never see. Hidden neighbourhoods, quirky markets, and alternative experiences are what make this city truly special. If you want to explore London like a local, you need to go beyond the usual tourist trail. Forget the crowded attractions—let’s dive into the unique and exciting side of London that most visitors miss!
Quirky Markets: London’s Best Shopping Spots with a Twist
London’s markets are full of character. You can find everything from vintage clothes and antiques to mouth watering street food. But instead of heading to famous markets like Borough Market or Camden Market, check out these hidden gems.
Columbia Road Flower Market
Every Sunday, Columbia Road bursts into life with one of London’s most beautiful markets. This flower market is a dream for plant lovers, with stalls packed full of fresh flowers, potted plants, and gardening accessories. The scent of roses, lavender, and eucalyptus fills the air as traders shout out their best deals. But it’s not just about flowers. The street is lined with adorable independent shops selling art, vintage homeware, and handmade gifts. Arrive early for the best selection, or go near closing time to grab bargain bouquets!
Old Spitalfields Market
Old Spitalfields Market is where history meets modern creativity. Built in the 1600s, it’s now home to over 100 stalls selling unique clothes, art, and handmade jewellery. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind vintage jacket or a special piece of London-made art, you’ll find it here. And don’t forget the food! Spitalfields has some of the best street food stalls in the city, serving everything from delicious dumplings to gourmet burgers.
Maltby Street Market
Love great food but hate the crowds? Maltby Street Market is the answer. Tucked under railway arches in Bermondsey, this market is a paradise for food lovers. The stalls serve everything from mouth watering steak sandwiches to freshly baked pastries. This market feels much more intimate than Borough Market, making it a perfect spot to grab lunch and enjoy a relaxed weekend vibe.
Hidden Neighbourhoods: Explore London’s Secret Spots
London is made up of hundreds of different neighbourhoods, each with its own personality. While tourists often stick to Soho and Covent Garden, locals love these under-the-radar areas.
Shoreditch & Brick Lane
Shoreditch is the creative heart of London, packed with trendy cafés, indie boutiques, and eye-catching street art. Walk down the famous Brick Lane and you’ll find vintage shops, record stores, and some of the best curry houses in the city. But the real magic is in the art. Every wall, doorway, and alleyway in Shoreditch is covered in colourful murals. You might even spot a piece by the legendary street artist Banksy!
Neal’s Yard
Neal’s Yard is a hidden treasure in the heart of Covent Garden—a tiny, magical courtyard bursting with colour. Tucked away from the bustling streets, it feels like stepping into a secret world of rainbow-painted buildings, hanging flower baskets, and quirky little cafés. Whether you're sipping on organic coffee, indulging in handmade cheese, or just soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Neal’s Yard is a perfect escape. It’s a picture-perfect, peaceful oasis in the middle of London’s lively energy!
Hampstead
If you want to experience a quieter, village-like part of London, head to Hampstead. This neighbourhood is home to cobbled streets, independent bookshops, and some of London’s oldest pubs. Hampstead Heath is the highlight—a vast green park where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the London skyline from Parliament Hill. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful afternoon stroll away from the crowds.
Alternative Tours: Discover London in a Unique Way
Forget bus tours—these experiences let you see London from a completely different angle.
Jack the Ripper Walking Tour
Step back in time to Victorian London and uncover the mystery of Jack the Ripper. This walking tour takes you through the dark and eerie streets of Whitechapel, where one of history’s most infamous criminals once lurked. Your guide will share chilling stories and real evidence, making this one of the most thrilling (and slightly spooky) ways to explore London.
London Street Art Tour
If you love art, this is the perfect tour for you. A street art tour takes you through the best graffiti spots in Shoreditch, where you’ll see work by world-famous artists like Banksy and Stik. It’s not just about looking at the murals—you’ll also learn the fascinating stories behind the art and the artists who create them.
Kayaking on Regent’s Canal
Kayaking on Regent’s Canal is one of the most exciting and unique ways to explore London. Forget crowded tourist boats—jump into a kayak and paddle through the city’s hidden waterways! Glide past charming houseboats, secret gardens, and peaceful parks while spotting cozy canal-side cafés along the way. It’s a mix of adventure and relaxation, giving you a whole new perspective of London. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, this unforgettable journey lets you see a quieter, more magical side of the city.
Stay Like a Local with a Rental Property
To truly experience London like a local, where you stay matters. Hotels can feel impersonal, and they don’t let you fully experience the city’s unique neighbourhoods. That’s why locals (and smart travellers) choose companies that offer rental properties in the city, like Veeve. With a rental property you’ll be waking up in a stylish apartment, grabbing coffee from a local café, and stepping outside into a real London neighbourhood. You’re not just visiting London—you’re living it.
Bonus Tips for Experiencing London Like a Local
To make the most of your time in London, here are a few extra tips:
- Use public transport like a Londoner: Skip the tourist buses and use the Tube (subway), buses, or even rent a bike to get around. The Oyster card or a contactless bank card makes travel super easy.
- Avoid peak times: London gets busy, especially during rush hour (8-10 AM and 5-7 PM). Try to explore attractions in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds.
- Try a traditional Sunday roast: A classic British meal! Head to a local pub and enjoy roast nut, crispy potatoes, and Yorkshire pudding with gravy.
- Don’t just visit big museums: The British Museum and National Gallery are amazing, but don’t miss smaller gems like the Sir John Soane’s Museum or the Dennis Severs' House, which feel like stepping into history.
- Walk everywhere: London is best explored on foot. Some of the best surprises happen when you wander down side streets and hidden alleys.
Wrap Up: How to Experience London Like a Local
London isn’t just about ticking off famous sights—it’s about discovering its hidden corners, vibrant culture, and local experiences.
By visiting quirky markets, strolling through secret neighbourhoods, and taking alternative tours, you’ll see the city in a way most tourists never do. So, on your next trip, ditch the guidebooks and step off the beaten path. Because the best way to experience London is to live it.
ABOUTME
We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.
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