Summary of Alternative London Attractions
A majority of tourists that visit London this year will head straight for the typical tourist hot spots such as The London Eye or Buckingham Palace and the Palace of Westminster. Little do they know that there is so much more to this amazing city than Prince Harry’s crown jewels, The River Thames, and pigeons. If you are coming to stay for longer than a few days, then why not check out these alternative London attractions?
Alternative London Attractions
1. Camden Town
Better known as the hometown of the late Amy Winehouse, Camden is possibly the most alternative area of London where Goths, Grungers, and Hippies unite. The high street is lined with tattoo parlors and stores selling everything from platform boots to studded collars.
Camden Market is a fantastic place to shop for handmade jewelry and trinkets. Moreover, you can relax with a drink by The Locke while listening to some of the best acoustic buskers in London.
If you enjoy live music, there is an abundance of performances every night of the week. Most up-and-coming bands start their careers playing to the small, energetic crowds in Camden’s pubs. Be sure to check out ‘Proud Camden’ in the Stables Market, which showcases exceptional talent and offers karaoke rooms for when you’ve had one too many.
How to get there: Camden Town underground station (Zone 2, Northern Line)
2. Neal’s Yard
Even locals sometimes overlook this quirky little courtyard, nestled in Covent Garden’s back streets. If you’re in need of a detox, head to Neal’s Yard Remedy shop, where organic skin and body care remedies made from natural ingredients are available.
Don’t forget to stop at the salad and juice bar before you leave. The multi-colored buildings, adorned with hanging baskets and vibrant shutters, create a picturesque scene, reminiscent of Monty Python’s era.
How to get there: Closest underground station Covent Garden (Zone 1, Piccadilly Line)
3. Battersea Park
Tourists often flock to London’s central parks, but they miss this beautiful utopia along the river in Wandsworth, West London. Families can rent bikes and “Banana bikes” for kids to explore the park. It’s also one of the best spots in London to skate.
A small section of the park was regenerated last year to resemble an Old English Garden, described as “Like walking through a big bouquet.” Be sure to check out the giant Pagoda, deer park, and mini-zoo.
How to get there: Battersea Park Railway station
4. Brick Lane & Shoreditch
These vibrant neighborhoods are filled with galleries, vintage clothing stores, unique cafes, and some of the best street art you’ll ever see. This is where the creative crowd spends their days in cafes such as 1001, blogging away on their MacBooks while sipping low-fat lattes.
Pick up a cheap Fixie bike at the Brick Lane Sunday market or shop at Shoreditch’s Boxpark—the world’s first pop-up mall.
A Brick Lane bar crawl is a must. Start at ‘Verge’ at the top and make your way down to ‘Vibe Bar’ and ‘Big Chill’ on Dray Walk. If you fancy live music, catch the lineup at ‘93 Feet East,’ or for a night of raving, check out the back room in ‘Cafe 1001,’ which occasionally stays open all night.
How to get there: Shoreditch overground station (Zone 2, East London line)
5. St Katherines Dock
Regrettably, this beautiful dock is often overlooked by many London guidebooks. Located next to Tower Bridge, it is somewhat concealed by the surrounding buildings.
The dock is lined with restaurants, including the Medieval Banquet, where you can step back in time and dine like royalty. The fancy boats in the marina also provide excellent photographic opportunities that will have your friends asking, “Where in London was that?”
How to get there: Tower Hill Underground Station (Zone 1, District & Circle line)
