14 London Tourist Traps to Skip (& Hidden Gems to Explore!)
London calling! But wait – before you book those tourist hotspots, let’s talk about the elephant in the Big Ben. Did you know that a whopping 19 million international tourists visited London in 2019? That’s a lot of people potentially wasting time in queues! I’ve got the inside scoop on which famous attractions to skip and the hidden gems that’ll make your 2024 London adventure truly unforgettable.
1. Skip Madame Tussauds, Visit the Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities
Let’s face it – standing in line for hours to take selfies with wax figures is so last century. Instead of wasting your time at Madame Tussauds, head over to the Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities. This eccentric collection of oddities will blow your mind!
Imagine wandering through rooms filled with two-headed kittens, dodo bones, and artwork that’ll make you question reality. It’s like stepping into a cabinet of curiosities from a bygone era. Pro tip: Book a cocktail tour for an extra dash of weirdness. Trust me, it’s one of the quirkiest London museums you’ll ever visit.
2. Avoid the London Eye, Climb to the Sky Garden Instead
The London Eye might be iconic, but it’s also overpriced and overrated. Why spend a fortune for a short ride when you can enjoy breathtaking views for free? Enter the Sky Garden, one of London’s best-kept secrets.
This lush, tropical oasis sits atop a skyscraper, offering 360-degree views of the city. Enjoy a cocktail at the bar, attend a sunrise yoga class, or simply wander among the exotic plants. The best part? It’s completely free! Just remember to book your ticket online in advance. It’s one of the top London budget-friendly activities that doesn’t skimp on the wow factor.
3. Pass on Piccadilly Circus, Explore Neal’s Yard
Piccadilly Circus might be famous, but let’s be honest – it’s just a glorified traffic junction with some flashy billboards. For a truly Instagram-worthy experience, head to the hidden gem of Neal’s Yard in Covent Garden.
This secret corner is a riot of colour, with buildings painted in every shade of the rainbow. It’s home to independent shops, organic cafes, and more charm than you can shake a stick at. Grab a superfood smoothie, browse unique beauty products, or simply soak in the bohemian atmosphere. It’s one of those secret London spots that’ll make your friends back home green with envy.
4. Skip Buckingham Palace, Tour Kensington Palace Instead
While Buckingham Palace might be the Queen’s official residence, tours are limited, expensive, and often underwhelming. For a real royal experience, head to Kensington Palace. This historic royal residence offers a more intimate glimpse into the lives of past and present royals.
Explore Queen Victoria’s childhood rooms, marvel at Princess Diana’s iconic fashion collection, and stroll through the stunning gardens. It’s a perfect blend of history, culture, and beauty – and usually with much smaller crowds. Don’t forget to check for discounted tickets online.
5. Avoid Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross, Visit the House of MinaLima
Harry Potter fans, I know you’re tempted by Platform 9¾, but trust me – it’s just a long queue for a simple photo op. Instead, apparate yourself to the House of MinaLima in Soho for a truly magical experience.
This free exhibition showcases the graphic art from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films. Four floors of enchanting designs, props, and interactive displays await you. It’s one of those unusual things to do in London that’ll delight both kids and adults alike. Accio awesome memories!
6. Skip the Changing of the Guard, Watch the Ceremony of the Keys
The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace might be famous, but it’s also crowded, hard to see, and, let’s face it, a bit repetitive. For a truly unique London experience, book tickets to the Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London.
This ancient ritual has been performed every night for 700 years. Watch as the tower is locked up for the night in a ceremony that’s steeped in history and tradition. The best part? It’s free! Just make sure to book well in advance – it’s one of London’s best-kept secrets.
7. Pass on Harrods, Shop at Borough Market Instead
Harrods might be world-famous, but unless you’re in the market for overpriced luxury goods, it can be a bit of a letdown. For a true taste of London, head to Borough Market instead.
This foodie paradise is one of London’s oldest and largest food markets. Sample artisanal cheeses, indulge in street food from around the world, and discover unique British delicacies. It’s a feast for all your senses and one of the top London food experiences. Don’t miss the grilled cheese sandwiches at Kappacasein – they’re legendary.
8. Avoid Big Ben, Explore the Old Operating Theatre Museum
With Big Ben under renovation until 2024, now’s the perfect time to discover one of London’s most fascinating hidden gems – the Old Operating Theatre Museum.
Tucked away near London Bridge, this unique museum houses Europe’s oldest surviving surgical theatre. Step back in time as you explore the 19th-century operating room, herb garret, and collection of gruesome medical instruments. It’s one of those London underground attractions that’ll give you a new appreciation for modern medicine.
9. Skip Oxford Street, Wander through Camden Passage
Oxford Street might be London’s most famous shopping destination, but it’s also crowded, full of chain stores, and lacking in character. For a more charming shopping experience, head to Camden Passage in Islington.
This pedestrianized alley is a treasure trove of antique shops, vintage boutiques, and cozy cafes. Spend an afternoon browsing unique finds, sipping artisanal coffee, and soaking in the local atmosphere. It’s one of London’s best spots for vintage shopping and people-watching.
10. Pass on Trafalgar Square, Discover Little Venice
Trafalgar Square might be historic, but it’s also often crowded and dominated by pigeons. For a more peaceful experience, explore the hidden charm of Little Venice.
This picturesque area, where two canals meet, is lined with colourful narrowboats and waterside cafes. Take a canal boat ride, enjoy a puppet show at the local theatre, or simply stroll along the peaceful towpaths. It’s one of London’s most romantic spots and a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
11. Avoid the Shard’s Viewing Gallery, Visit the Postal Museum Instead
The view from the Shard might be impressive, but it’s also expensive and weather dependent. For a uniquely London experience, head underground to the Postal Museum.
Here, you can ride the Mail Rail – a miniature underground train that was once used to transport mail across the city. Explore interactive exhibits about Britain’s postal history and enjoy family-friendly activities. It’s one of those London cultural experiences that’s both educational and fun.
12. Skip Leicester Square, Explore God’s Own Junkyard
Leicester Square might be the heart of London’s West End, but it’s also full of overpriced restaurants and tacky attractions. For a truly dazzling experience, make your way to God’s Own Junkyard in Walthamstow.
This neon wonderland is packed with salvaged signs, retro displays, and mind-bending light installations. It’s a psychedelic feast for the eyes and one of the best London photo opportunities you’ll find. Grab a coffee at the on-site cafe and lose yourself in the glow.
13. Pass on Covent Garden, Discover Maltby Street Market
Covent Garden might be charming, but it’s also touristy and overpriced. For a more authentic London market experience, head to Maltby Street Market in Bermondsey.
This weekend market is a favourite among locals, offering gourmet street food, craft beers, and unique local products. Wander under the railway arches, sample delicious treats, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. It’s one of London’s best street food scenes and a great place to mingle with locals.
14. Avoid Westminster Abbey, Visit Highgate Cemetery Instead
Westminster Abbey is undoubtedly impressive, but it’s also expensive and often crowded. For a more peaceful and equally historic experience, explore Highgate Cemetery in North London.
This Victorian-era cemetery is not only hauntingly beautiful but also the final resting place of many famous figures. Visit Karl Marx’s tomb, find Douglas Adams’ final resting place, and admire the Gothic architecture. Choose between a guided tour or explore on your own – either way, it’s one of London’s most atmospheric spots.