If you live in the UK or you’ve visited London before, there’s probably a perception that you’ve developed about this vibrant location. Whether that perception is good or bad, you should know that there are so many hidden gems in the magical city of London. The great thing is that it’s so diverse, and you can experience multiple cultures as well as learn different things. However, you’ve got to do your research and dig a little deeper to find unconventional things to do.
If you’re looking for interesting things to do in London, then here are a few ways that you can experience London in an unconventional way:
Gir Lion Lodge at London Zoo
If you’ve never been to the London Zoo before, it’s definitely a location worth visiting. There are so many attractions such as penguin beach, land of the lions, and rainforest life. For a different experience, you could hire a lodge and get private guided tours after hours instead of during the day. The package includes a two-course dinner and breakfast, which is a great value.
Do Activities in Hyde Park
Hyde Park is usually known as a place to go on a warm sunny day. If you didn’t know, there are actually tons of activities that you can get into while you visit this park.
For one, you could take a paddleboat or rowboat down the Serpentine. Additionally, why not have brunch on the waterfront? If you’re lucky enough to catch a sunny day, rent a sun lounger on the shore or go to the sun terrace that’s overlooking the lido. During my April trip to London, it was still a bit chilly, but I enjoyed laying out on a blanket and reading. I also took advantage of running in Hyde Park.
If you intend to get the most out of your visit, consider staying at Native Hyde Park overnight. It’s a nearby apartment that’s both comfortable and compact, so consider booking a space there.
Lee Valley White Water Centre
The London 2012 Olympic Games took place at the Lee Valley White Centre, and it’s still a great spot for adventure. You can engage in activities like white-water rafting, canoeing, and kayaking, which are perfect activities for adrenaline junkies. It’s also a great destination for kids and families as well as a day out with your friends.
Grant Museum of Zoology
If you want to visit a one-of-a-kind museum, then visit the Grant Museum of Zoology. It has been around for a century or more and contains a range of engrossing exhibits. Some things you’ll find there are gunnels with animal skeletons like an elephant skull or creatures preserved in fluids. Located in University College London, you can visit the museum from Monday through Saturday between 1 pm and 5 pm, and best of all, it’s free!
Visit the Twinnings Café
Did you know that there was a 300-year-old tea shop in London? It opened in 1706, and they were one of the first merchants to bring tea into the UK. Another interesting thing to note is that they’ve been giving royal households brews since 1837. Located on the Strand in Holborn, they’re open every day of the week, so consider visiting to truly make your trip to London, one to remember.
Eat Delicious South Asian Food
London is know for their amazing Indian restaurants, but there are many other South Asian cuisines you should try. Go to Dishoom one night; there will be a wait, but it’s so worth it. Get the chicken ruby, black dahl, and the rose lassie to neutralize the spice. Go to The Kati Roll Company for lunch one day, and then Tukdin for delicious Malaysian food.
Drink Cider
Cider has become extremely popular in the United States in the past decade, but did you know it’s from the UK? The UK consumes more cider than any other part of the world, so while in London, be sure to try as many ciders as you can. Not two ciders are the same.
Have you ever been to London? Let us know in the comments below!
