Unique things to do in London

Visit London and you’ll never be short of things to see and do. From Tower Bridge to the Houses of Parliament, a simple stroll along the river Thames will allow you to take in some of the most famous buildings, galleries and attractions in the world. According to the UK Office for National Statistics, London is one of the most visited cities on the planet, with nearly five million holidayers flocking there from abroad between July and September in 2013 alone (and almost all of them stopping for a selfie outside Buckingham Palace…)

For the first time visitor, there are plenty of informative guides on offer and many a well-worn, well-signposted tourist trail to follow covering all the major attractions. But what if you’ve already been there, done that and bought the plush, oversized Union Flag top hat? Or what if you just want to escape the hoards and explore the more eccentric side of London off the beaten track?

London is full of unique things to do that don’t necessarily make it into your average guidebook. You might have to look beyond Trip Advisor to find them but – thankfully – Londoners take such pride in being the first to reveal the latest secret scenes, sights and sounds that there are host of hidden gems to be discovered via blogs, social media and a good old fashioned stroll around. From the ’90s Brit Pop singing ticket barrier at Canary Wharf to Sherlock’s favourite eatery, we’ve rounded up 15 of the best alternative destinations to get you started…

1. See The Whole Of London In Miniature

Photo taken from LINK

Why not kick off a day of sight-seeing by taking in a panoramic view of the city from the comfort of a single, ground floor location? New London Architecture’s amazing 1:1500 scale model of London is on permanent display and can be viewed for free at their offices near Goodge Street.

The model covers an area from Paddington to Kings Cross, Battersea and the Royal London Docks. It includes major new proposed buildings and transport links as well as the familiar sites, so you’ll also get a sneak peek of

how the city will look in years to come. New London Architecture is open from Monday -Friday, 9.30am-6pm and on Saturdays from 10am-5pm.

2. Visit Speedy’s Cafe In Camden

Photo taken from LINK

Fans of the BBC TV series Sherlock have probably already picked up on the significance of this particular North London greasy spoon. Speedy’s Cafe has provided the backdrop and interior for countless scenes between Benedict Cumberbatch’s sociopathic sleuth and Martin Freeman’s slightly less abrasive sidekick Dr. Watson.

Literary purists will be disappointed to discover that the cafe and Sherlock’s flat next door are not situated on Baker Street, the official residence of the fictional detective, but nearby around Euston Square. If you’re wondering who that blue plaque is for as well, it’s not for Sherlock and John it’s to commemorate 19th century Italian politician, Giuseppe Mazzini, who once lived there. No connection.

Admirably for Speedy’s, they haven’t tried to cash in on their new found fame all too much, although you can pick up a mug or a T-shirt if you’re passing through. We recommend you opt for a full English breakfast instead, which has also picked up some pretty decent reviews online. Speedy’s Cafe is open Monday-Saturday, but is closed on Sundays.

3. Pick Up A Stylish Umbrella

Photo taken from LINK

Let’s face it: you’re probably going to need an umbrella when you visit London, so why not make an occasion of it and head for James Smith & Sons on New Oxford Street to collect some top quality wet weather gear?

These purveyors of finest umbrellas have been around since 1830 and have sold brollies to leading British luminaries over the years, including a UK prime minister or two. The shop itself is a sight to behold, worthy of the props department on Mary Poppins, with many of the original Victorian fittings and an amazing selection of walking sticks and animal head umbrellas on display, as well as the more modern, lightweight kind that will fit in your handbag. It’s certainly worth a browse, even if you do end up buying a cheap-o one from a street vendor in Leicester Square.

4. Visit The Singing Ticket Barrier

Photo taken from LINK

When one London commuter exited the Jubilee Line at Canary Wharf recently, he noticed that his particular ticket barrier was in a musical mood, greeting him as it did with a ‘woo-hoo’ reminiscent of Blur’s 1997 hit “Song 2.” The excited traveller immediately whipped out his camera phone to capture the talented ticket gate and it soon became a viral hit on YouTube, even making it into the national press.

There’s an unsubstantiated rumour that the barrier will be duetting with Katy Perry on the next series of the X-Factor, but before it picks up a record deal, head down to Canary Wharf to hear it sing, all for the price of a single tube fare.

CHECK OUT THE BARRIER IN ACTION:

5. Check Out The Traffic Light Tree

Photo taken from LINK

While you’re in Canary Wharf, you may as well take a few minutes to visit one of the most interesting sculptures in London, the traffic light tree. Created by French sculptor Pierre Vivant, the eight metre tall ‘tree’ contains 75 fully operational, computer controlled traffic lights arranged on metal branches.

Standing on a roundabout next to the famous Billingsgate fish market, it’s a slightly dystopian sight, especially considering the lack of vegetation surrounding it. But it’s also quite beautiful, especially when lit up at night with it’s customary red, amber and green hues. It should be noted that the traffic light tree is purely decorative and is not used to direct traffic in any way. We think.

SOURCE: LINK

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