Besides world-renowned historical attractions, London is also known for its beautiful gardens, picturesque streets, colourful townhouses, rooftop bars, and quirky shops and restaurants. On my second trip to London, England, I was determined to visit as many of the city’s unique and photo-worthy spots as I could. Not only are these 15 spots incredibly picturesque, they are also mostly free to visit and less touristy than the major attractions mentioned in my post, “What to Do on Your First Trip to London.” Visiting these spots with my best friends was the best way to spend my second trip to London and a great way to see more of the city and feel like a local! I hope that you get the chance to visit these 15 unique spots in London.
Sky Garden
On my second trip to London, I was determined to visit a rooftop bar. After some research, I decided to visit the Sky Garden because it is London’s highest public garden and free to visit. The prices of drinks are astounding but they were so yummy. I highly recommend visiting the Sky Garden – the views are incredible and the indoor garden is beautiful.
More info on visiting the Sky Garden: https://skygarden.london/
St Dunstan in the East
Just a short walk from the Sky Garden are the ruins of a church, St Dunstan in the East. The church was originally built in 1100 but it was severely damaged in the Great Fire of London in 1666. The ruins of the church are now a beautiful public garden. This is a somewhat secret spot popular among locals looking for a moment of peace and quiet.
Peggy Porschen Cakes – Chelsea
On my second trip to London I wanted to stay near the Chelsea neighbourhood because I’m a big fan of the reality TV show, Made in Chelsea. I was so excited to explore Chelsea and Peggy Porschen Cakes, the well-known adorable pink bakery, was our first stop.
Chelsea Physic Garden
The Chelsea Physic Garden is the oldest botanic garden in London. I was pleasantly surprised by how beautiful it is! This is the only spot on my list that is not free to visit.
More info on Chelsea Physic Garden: https://www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk/
The Ivy Chelsea Garden
When in Chelsea, make sure to walk by the Ivy Chelsea Garden – such a beautiful restaurant!
Colourful Doors
I love how there are so many streets in London with colourful townhouses and doors. You can find them mostly in west London. I could wander around for hours and admire them all but here are some of my favourites that I recommend visiting:
Kensington Palace Gardens
Although it costs money to enter Kensington Palace, you can wander around the lovely gardens for free. My favourite areas are the Sunken Garden, the Italian Gardens, the Peter Pan Memorial, and the Albert Memorial.
The Churchill Arms
The Churchill Arms in Kensington is probably the coolest pub that I’ve ever seen!
Notting Hill
I was so excited to visit Notting Hill. I love the colourful townhouses and cute shops.
Little Venice
Little Venice is a unique and non-touristy area of London. The canals are lined with tug boats, some of which have been turned into shops and restaurants.
Covent Garden
Covent Garden is an awesome shopping area to explore. Tons of great photo opportunities here!
Neal’s Yard
Neal’s Yard is a colourful alley near Covent Garden. It’s so cute!
Regent’s Park
I am so glad that we visited Regent’s Park. The Rose Garden is absolutely stunning! The Japanese Garden and English Garden are also a must-see.
Carnaby
Carnaby Street in Soho is such a fun and colourful shopping street. The decorative street displays often change.
Daunt Books
Daunt Books in Marylebone is such a cool bookstore. Lots of photo-ops!
I hope you enjoyed this list of 15 unique spots in London!
To read my blog post, “What to Do on Your First Trip to London,” click here.
