Although I haven’t lived in London for almost 4 years now, I still find that whenever I visit I am drawn to the capital’s main attractions. I can’t resist photos of Big Ben, riding at the top of double-decker buses or walking down Oxford Street wishing I could buy absolutely everything.
It’s not often that I actually spend my time in London exploring the lesser-known London wonders, the things that were often part of my daily routine without me even realising.
The things that really made me fall in love in London.
Lesser-Known London Hotels
When it comes to London people often book the cheapest hotel in the centre that they can find. I’m 100% guilty of this as I visit so often, but it can really pay off to book something a little different every once in a while.
One of my favourite hotels in London is the Colonnade in Little Venice. Although it has a blue-plaque status, almost everyone I have mentioned it to has never heard of it before.
The decor is stunning, it’s history is fascinating and they have the best guest relations ever (spoiler alert: it’s a cat). If you’re looking for something a little different I would definitely recommend, especially as you can get a two night stay on Groupon.
Lesser-Known London Bars
There are literally bars everywhere in London, so it’s hard to say when something is lesser known in such a busy city. The one place I would definitely recommend though is The Shoreditch in East London.
I love a good tiki bar and The Shoreditch does not disappoint. They have incredible cocktails, great music and absinthe shots for those that are brave enough (not me).
The whole Shoreditch area is great for bars as another one I would recommend is the Speakeasy at The Breakfast Club. If you walk up to the fridge and whisper the secret phrase you will be allowed to enter. If you know the phrase (no clues given here), it’s definitely worth a visit.
Lesser-Known London Shopping
There are so many popular places to go shopping in London- Westfield Stratford, White City, Oxford Street and Covent Garden are just a few of my favourites, however, I love the Brick Lane area for shopping. With the Box Park Pop Up nearby and tonnes of vintage shops, you’re more than likely to find something unique.
Lesser Known London Food
This may seem like a bit of an odd suggestion, but if you’re looking for a quirky, lesser-known cafe in London – visit the Cat Cafe in East London! You have to pay for an hour slot but the food is delicious and being surrounded by cats makes the whole experience one you won’t forget.
There’s so much more of London that I haven’t yet explored. I can’t wait to go back.
Kirsty Leanne
xoxo