Article Overview
London is a city overflowing with peculiar facts that often go unnoticed by visitors who roam through various prominent neighborhoods in London. Remarkably, many of these intriguing facts lie right beneath our noses. As one explores deeper, a fascinating collection of unique and extraordinary aspects of London begins to unfold.
Indeed, one of the most notable attributes of London is its remarkable diversity; each facet of its rich history reveals a plethora of surprising facts that may catch even the most seasoned Londoners off guard.
Consequently, there are numerous insights I wish I had been aware of prior to relocating to London, which I feel compelled to share. This includes some of the more hidden gems and eccentricities that render London a fabulous city to discover.
Explore some remarkable treasures and unusual facts about London that I trust will astonish you on your excursion through the city. 🇬🇧
1.) Scotch Eggs Aren’t Scottish
Allegedly, they originate from London!
According to the esteemed authorities at Fortnum and Mason, the Scotch egg is not actually Scottish, having been developed by Fortnum’s approximately three centuries ago. Created in the 18th century, it has since evolved into a quintessential picnic delicacy (particularly delightful when served with runny yolks).
Visit their food pantry downstairs to savor a delightful Scotch egg.
2.) London Has a Crying Church
Many visitors to St. Bartholomew the Great remain unaware of its peculiar moniker, “the weeping church.” It was not until attending a friend’s wedding there that the reason became apparent.
When rainy weather prevails, the church’s stones exhibit significant porosity. If the church is not heated and dried adequately, the walls will invariably weep.
There’s even an inscription adorning the church, stating, “unsluice your briny floods.” This spot truly represents one of the area’s less traversed locations and intriguing facts about London that most visitors miss.
Read more: Unusual spots to see in London
3.) Ears and Noses Dotted Around London
Covent Garden is a stunning area in London, rich with charming lanes and an extraordinary marketplace, which also includes an outstanding venue—no, it’s not the Roadhouse nightclub 🤣, but the iconic Royal Opera House.
While visiting Covent Garden (or Soho), ensure you are observant of the quirky elements subtly integrated into the architecture. Numerous ears and noses are affixed to the walls, silently observing and, um, perhaps smelling everything in view!
If you happen to overlook them, simply treat yourself to some bubbles and enjoy your day! Ha! 🍾
Read more: Best things to do in Covent Garden
4.) Plague Pits in London
The plague significantly affected London in the 17th century, claiming the lives of nearly one-third of its population. This dark history has left its mark; numerous small parks and green spaces became burial sites for tens of thousands of victims.
Some of the notable locations include Golden Square Park in Soho, Green Park, Knightsbridge Green, and at the opening of the Bakerloo Line in Elephant and Castle.
Fortunately, these sites are now largely concealed from view. Nevertheless, it’s best not to dwell on this when visiting the parks! 😱
Read more: Best things to do in Kings Cross
5.) Harvard Family Pub in London
Borough and Borough Market have transformed into one of London’s most frequented markets, abundant with an array of food options including cakes, coffee, and seafood—an absolute paradise for food enthusiasts.
Unbeknownst to many, a mere thirty seconds’ walk from here is the historic pub once owned by the illustrious Harvard family (the founders of Harvard University in the USA). Located at 103 Borough High Street, this establishment was once a bustling tavern, though it appears the family eventually diverted their focus from libations to academia instead. 🤣
Read more: The best street food markets in London
6.) Underground Mail Train
Recently made accessible to the public, the mail train comprises an extensive network of tunnels previously utilized to transport letters and important parcels throughout the city. Nestled deep underground, these passageways have only just opened for public exploration. Visitors even have the opportunity to ride on the original train.
This represents one of the lesser-known facts about London that has only recently come to light.
7.) Drink Coffee in a Graveyard
Unbeknownst to many, by visiting the Watchhouse Coffee Shop, one enters the historic space previously used by Victorian law enforcement to monitor potential grave robbers. Located on Bermondsey Street, the Watchhouse Coffee Shop is situated on a historically significant graveyard that at one time served as a favorite haunt for grave robbers. Eerie indeed! 😱
They serve exceptional coffee and delicious pastries. It has quickly become my favored coffee spot in London, housed within a location replete with unusual facts and captivating history that often evades public awareness.
Read more: Best coffee spots in London
8.) See the Berlin Wall in London
Situated about a 15-minute walk from the London Eye lies the Imperial War Museum of London.
Entry is free to this museum, which features sections of the original Berlin Wall displayed in the gardens, serving as a poignant reminder of history accessible to all visitors.
Read more: What to do at every tube stop in London
9.) The Oldest Garden in London
Contrary to popular belief, the oldest garden in London is not located in Hyde Park or Regent’s Park; it resides within the serene and secluded grounds of Westminster Abbey’s College Garden.
With nearly a millennium of history, it is revered as one of the oldest gardens in the United Kingdom and is intricately linked to Westminster Abbey.
Read more: The best palaces in London to explore
10.) Visit Benjamin Franklin’s House
Indeed, London boasts the only remaining residence of Benjamin Franklin outside of the United States.
This distinguished location served as Franklin’s abode on the eve of the American Revolution and is now a site of significance to visit while in London. It is situated at 36 Craven Street—a true hidden gem and one of the unfamiliar London facts that many individuals are unaware exists within the city.
Read more: Best areas in London to explore
