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15 unusual things to do in London

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15 UNUSUAL THINGS TO DO IN LONDON

Different activities to discover a different London

Investigate a Harry Potter-themed magic shop or take a boat ride through the beautiful canals of Little Venice. Each activity presents a unique view of the city. Consider a walk through the art-filled streets of Shoreditch, visit historical sites like the Sherlock Holmes Letters Museum, or try dining in complete darkness. London showcases its cultural and creative diversity through unique experiences meant to surprise and enchant visitors.

Magical locations and alternative culture

Investigate the hidden gems of London and its alternative culture through these distinctive activities. The Harry Potter Magic Shop in Diagon Alley transports you to the charming world of Hogwarts, while a relaxing boat trip around Little Venice guides you through its beautiful canals. Our street art tour in Shoreditch showcases the city's creative spirit, featuring pieces by local and international artists painted on the streets. These unique experiences provide a captivating view of London beyond its usual attractions.

The Harry Potter magic store in Diagon Alley

There is no better way to step into the enchanting world of Harry Potter than by visiting the Magic Shop in Diagon Alley, London. Inspired by the beloved books and films, this shop provides a one-of-a-kind experience for fans. Here, you can investigate magical artifacts, wands, and other items that capture the essence of the Hogwarts universe. You’ll find tunics from the four houses and magical treats like Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans. Every corner is crafted to transport visitors into the magical realm created by J.K. Rowling.

A cart rests against a brick wall, supporting a bird cage atop it.

Boat trip in Little Venice

Experience a calming and beautiful boat trip in Little Venice, a lovely part of London famous for its peaceful canals and colorful houseboats. This scenic spot provides a tranquil escape from the busy city, allowing you to enjoy the distinctive architecture and greenery along the waterways. As you stroll, you will come across various cafes, restaurants, and art shops, connecting with the creative spirit of London.

Street art tour in Shoreditch

If you love street art, consider visiting Shoreditch, one of the most creative areas in London. This tour guides you through vibrant streets where you can admire impressive works by local and international artists. From bold graffiti to unique urban installations, every corner of Shoreditch tells a story and showcases the city's cultural diversity. Led by knowledgeable experts, you will discover the artists behind these works and how street art has evolved as a form of modern expression. This is your opportunity to investigate London's underground art scene.

History and fun facts

Discover intriguing historical sites and unique wonders in London through these unconventional activities. The Sherlock Holmes Letter Museum immerses you in the world of the legendary detective, showcasing a collection of letters and related artifacts. Every Sunday, the Colombia Road Flower Market creates a laid-back atmosphere filled with a variety of exotic plants and flowers. Highgate Cemetery, known for its Victorian architecture and connections to notable figures, also offers a captivating glimpse into the past.

Sherlock Holmes Letter Museum

In addition to the usual visits to London's well-known museums, there's one that stands out: the Card Museum, dedicated to the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes. This special museum features a collection of letters penned by Holmes along with items linked to his most famous cases. Visitors can examine rooms inspired by the tales of Arthur Conan Doyle, capturing the essence of the Victorian era. The museum highlights the life and work of Sherlock Holmes, captivating literature lovers and aspiring detectives with engaging exhibits and stories.

Colombia Road Flower Market

Explore the Colombia Road Flower Market, a vibrant Sunday market in east London. Known for its lively atmosphere, this market showcases a remarkable range of exotic plants and flowers. Vendors sell everything from lilies and roses to cacti and ferns, creating a garden-like feel in the heart of the city. While shopping, visitors can enjoy live music and browse through antique shops and boutiques, enhancing the floral experience. It's an ideal spot for gardening enthusiasts and travelers looking for something special in London.

Highgate Cemetery

Explore Highgate Cemetery, a captivating site rich in history located in north London. This Victorian burial ground features remarkable architecture and peaceful landscapes. Strolling its paths leads you by intricate tombs and memorials from the 18th and 19th centuries. Beyond its visual appeal, the cemetery is linked to notable figures like Karl Marx and George Eliot, making each visit both enlightening and engaging. It is an ideal spot for anyone curious about London’s past and Victorian design.

Immersive experiences and cuisine

Explore immersive experiences and unique tastes in London through off-the-beaten-path activities. Darkfield's theater in the dark provides a distinct sensory journey in complete darkness, where sound and storytelling merge to keep you engaged. The chocolate tasting session at the Chocolat Hotel lets you uncover the mysteries of chocolate as you sample various types. A dinner at Dans le Noir invites you to savor a gourmet meal in total darkness, challenging your senses and offering a fresh perspective on dining. These activities take you to uncharted sensory realms in the city's most intriguing corners.

Theater in the dark (Darkfield)

A unique theatrical experience awaits you at Darkfield in London. This innovative theater invites you to engage in immersive shows held in complete darkness. With binaural audio technology and sensory effects, Darkfield crafts an immersive environment where reality and fiction intertwine. Each production is crafted to challenge your perceptions and evoke strong emotions while examining themes like fear, paranoia, and memory. This is your opportunity to enjoy theater in a fresh and thrilling manner, perfect for those who appreciate experimental and intense sensory experiences.

Chocolate tasting at the Chocolat Hotel

Indulge in a chocolate tasting at the Chocolat Hotel, where you can discover the rich nuances and flavors of hand-crafted chocolate. Guided by skilled chocolatiers, you will learn the art of chocolate making and gain insights into various chocolate types based on their origin and production methods. Each sample, from rich dark chocolate to unique blends with innovative ingredients, offers a distinct sensory experience. Along with the tasting, you will explore the history of Hotel Chocolat and its dedication to fair trade and sustainability.

Dinner at Dans le Noir

If you are someone who isn’t afraid of the dark, consider a memorable dinner at Dans le Noir, a unique restaurant in London where you can enjoy your meal in complete darkness. Guided by blind waiters, this experience challenges your senses by removing sight and enhancing the flavors, textures, and aromas of each dish. With no visual distractions, immerse yourself in a dining setting that fosters conversation and connection in an unexpected way. See how it alters your perception of food and your dining companions in this intriguing environment, ideal for those seeking extraordinary culinary adventures.

Local art and curiosities

In the British capital, you'll find unexpected treasures that enhance your visit. The Leighton House Museum lets you explore the world of painter Frederic Leighton and his remarkable collection of orientalist art. In Walthamstow, God's Own JunkYard Gallery will amaze you with its vibrant displays of neon lights and pop art. A night tour of Whitechapel will delve into the mysteries of Jack the Ripper and reveal the intriguing history of the area. These experiences are sure to captivate anyone interested in art, history, and culture in the city.

Leighton House Museum

Visit the Leighton House Museum in London, a hidden gem that celebrates the work of Victorian painter Frederic Leighton and his love for orientalist art. This house-museum features a remarkable collection of paintings, sculptures, and objects that showcase the exotic and elegant styles of the 19th century. Examine the interiors crafted by Leighton himself, particularly the renowned Arab Hall adorned with Persian tiles and a golden dome. Learn about Leighton's life, his artistic impact, and his influence on modern British art through guided tours. This experience enriches the lives of art and history enthusiasts in London.

God's Own Junkard

If you love neon lighting and pop art, you'll find a fantastic spot to appreciate both at God's Own JunkYard Gallery in Walthamstow. This one-of-a-kind gallery showcases an impressive collection of glowing signs and captivating artworks. Founded by the artist Chris Bracey, often called the "King of the Neon," the gallery honors his creative legacy and influence on modern visual culture. Visitors can stroll through vibrant corridors filled with color, experiencing the spirit of urban art and the city's nightlife.

Jack the Riper tour by night

If you enjoy scary stories, you might be familiar with Jack the Ripper. In London, you can join a night tour of Whitechapel that leads you through alleys and sites linked to notorious 19th-century crimes. This tour offers an intriguing glimpse into one of the most mysterious cases in criminal history. Guided by knowledgeable experts, you will hear tales and theories about the serial killer who instilled fear in London during that period.

Workshops and creative activities

Unleash your creativity with unique activities in London through these exciting workshops and experiences. The graffiti course at the Graffik Gallery lets you learn graffiti techniques in a legal and supervised setting in the vibrant Notting Hill area. The 18th Century Pharmacy in Chelsea provides an intriguing glimpse into historical medicine and everyday life of that era. Lastly, the dinosaur park at Crystal Palace transports visitors to prehistoric times with its life-size models and educational environment. These activities are ideal for those wanting to learn, create, and discover in the lively city of London.

Graffiti course at Graffik Gallery

If you enjoy street art and are drawn to graffiti, consider taking an engaging course at the Graffik Gallery in Notting Hill, London. This workshop gives you a chance to learn graffiti techniques in a legal and safe setting, led by skilled artists who share their insights and experience. Learn how to create striking pieces using aerosol cans and stencils while you dive into the urban culture that shapes the neighborhood's identity. It's a perfect blend of education and creativity for urban art enthusiasts and anyone wanting to express themselves through visual art in an inspiring and vibrant environment.

18th-century pharmacy in Chelsea

Investigate the captivating 18th-century Pharmacy in Chelsea, a historical gem that provides a rare glimpse into medical practices and everyday life in 18th-century London. This restored museum showcases an impressive collection of ancient medicines, medical instruments, and pharmacy-related artifacts. Uncover how pharmacists of the past prepared medicines and gain insights into medical beliefs during the Georgian era. With guided tours, you can dive into the history of medicine and examine a little-known yet crucial aspect of London’s past.

Dinosaur park at crystal palace

Step back in time at the dinosaur park in Crystal Palace, where life-size models of dinosaurs await you in an engaging and educational setting. This one-of-a-kind theme park provides an experience that blends learning and fun, letting you examine accurate replicas of the dinosaurs that roamed the Earth millions of years ago. Perfect for families and palaeontology enthusiasts, the park features clear information about each species, their habitat, and their history, enhancing your grasp of prehistoric life. It's an exciting adventure for anyone exploring London and seeking out unique experiences.