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London park with fountain

Sights worth seeing

Best Non Touristy Places in London

The City of London attracts more than 20 million people each year – so it’s safe to say there will be crowds in the most sought-after tourist attractions. The good news is that there are plenty of hidden gems in Central London and beyond. 

From botanical gardens to independent boutiques, we’ve created a travel guide for the best non-touristy things in London. Go off the beaten path and make memories with these must-see spots.

Explore unique green spaces

While the iconic London skyline might be reminiscent of a concrete jungle, the city is also home to 35,000 acres of green space. Some of the best non touristy places in London offer unparalleled viewpoints, accompanied by stunning flora and fauna.

Head to Hampstead Heath for gorgeous woodlands and ponds. A walk up Parliament Hill will reveal views of London like you’ve never seen it before. Gaze out at St Paul’s Cathedral, the Gherkin, the Shard and more as you enjoy a picnic. 

In South London, you’ll find the walled gardens of Brockwell Park. Not only can you stroll around the greenery at your leisure, but take in the historic clocktowers at Brockwell Hall. Make your way to Lambeth to see this award-winning Site of Importance for Nature Conservation. 

Further afield in West London, Richmond is home to the Isabella Plantation in Richmond Park. Explore a rich tapestry of rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias and more in this 40-acre Victorian woodland garden. It’s open year-round, with ponds and streams ideal for photo moments 

Discover offbeat markets

You’ll no doubt have heard of the big ones such as Camden Town and Borough Market, but have you discovered London’s alternative retail scene? Down in Southeast London’s Bermondsey lies Maltby Street Market. Here you can sample a range of gourmet street food and homemade products.

Head out east to Clerkenwell for Exmouth Market, replete with international flavours and independent boutiques. Shop jewellery and gifts or treat yourself to a new haircut. Plus, if you did want to visit London for fun things like a bit of culture, the British Museum is only moments away.

In Tooting, you can browse South London’s largest indoor street market, Broadway Market. Located on Tooting High Street, it features more than 100 stalls with homewares, clothes, electronics, and of course, delectable global cuisine.

Hidden historical sites and museums

Blending natural beauty and manmade history, Chelsea Physic Garden dates back to 1673, making it London’s oldest botanical garden. Bask in the sights and smells of medicinal plants and herbs, nestled within centuries-old glasshouses – you’ll find it just a stone’s throw from Covent Garden and our Victoria hotel.

Just 15 minutes from London Bridge is the Horniman Museum. Step back in time and discover natural history in the heart of Forest Hill, complete with an on-site café, aquarium and butterfly house. You’ll learn about ancient artifacts including clothing and musical instruments, as well as thousands of species.

Looking for an alternative walking tour? Try the London Tunnels tour, exploring the relics of days gone by including the deepest bar in the United Kingdom. Learn all about the tunnels’ role during WWII, as well as modernisation works around nearby tube stations and TV set locations.

Visit charming neighbourhoods and quirky streets

One of the best non tourist places in London for fans of vintage shopping is Belsize Park. Dating back to the 14th century, this is an affluent area in the Camden borough, home to independent restaurants, bars and boutiques. Learn more about the Manor of Belsize and its links to Westminster Abbey as you peruse these quaint streets.

Ideal for a summer stroll, Dulwich in South London is a picturesque village with charming cafes and retail stores. Here you can take out a pedalo on the boating lake, explore the winter garden or even make your way around the Dulwich Picture Gallery. The contemporary collection celebrates local artists and even offers adult courses and workshops.

A far cry from Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, head west to Richmond for stunning flower markets and cosy pubs. Here you can indulge in an afternoon tea as you look out over the River Thames, or take a stroll around nearby Kew Gardens. It’s also the film set for popular show Ted Lasso, so be sure to look around.

Experience London’s culture

If you’re a fan of street art or a wander around an art gallery, you can find pop-up exhibitions dotted about the capital. Keep your eye on Mobile Art Disco to see where disruptive artists will be making their mark or check out photography displays on the Art Funds website.

For a moment of quiet reflection, the Shree Sanatan Hindu Mandir Temple in Wembley offers the chance to learn about this ancient religion’s rituals and history. Marvel at the Indian limestone architecture from outside or participate in prayer ceremonies within.

Visit the best non touristy places in London with Clermont

From brunch in Brockwell Park to a mooch around the markets, you can find plenty of quieter, non touristy things to do in London. After your day’s exploring, relax and reflect with a stay at The Clermont.