What are some lesser-known places in London and across the UK that are worth visiting before we leave?
Posted by FuzzyAromaticSand@reddit | AskUK | View on Reddit | 17 comments
I’ve been living in London for a few years now, but with my kids and my wife, we haven’t had the chance to explore the city and the UK in general as much as we’d like. I’m eager to visit some hidden gems that locals rave about before I leave. We’ve already visited most of the “famous” places and cities, so I’m looking for places that are off the beaten path and truly unique. We’re relatively young, so we’re open to discovering and trying new things. Thanks!
Ok_Research1886@reddit
the city of london is so underrated for weird little spots! theres this tiny church called st dunstan in the east thats basically ruins with a garden growing through it - proper atmospheric and barely anyone knows about it. also the george inn in southwark is this mad old galleried coaching inn tucked away down a side street, feels like stepping back in time
if youre into quirky stuff the old bailey has a public gallery where you can watch actual trials for free which is quite fascinating. and leadenhall market is gorgeous but everyone just walks through without really looking up at the victorian roof
tbh some of the best hidden bits are just wandering the tiny alleyways around bank and monument - so much history crammed into random corners that most people miss
yorkspirate@reddit
Highgate cemetery is brilliant if your into that type of stuff, the tour is full of interesting information and stories plus it's a gorgeous place to wander round
Timely_Egg_6827@reddit
In London, if you like walking, then go to Highgate station and walk through the woods and along the old railway line to Muswell Hill - lots of nice cafes and restaurants - recommend the independent pizza place - then on wards to Ally Pally. The disused railway line between Highgate and Muswell Hill has some of the best views over London I've seen.
Estorick Museum - Futurist art - Islington near the end of Upper Street.
St Albans - great for a day out. Very nice roman theatre near the roman museum. Go on a market day for lovely cheeses.
The London Museum of Steam and Water - go on a steaming day. Great for a combined visit with Kew Gardens.
SmugMiddleClarse@reddit
If you have a car or can afford a train, go to Northumbria. The most amazing coastline in the UK (and I say this as somone who lives in Norfolk). The poison garden in Alnwick is a really interesting and slightly unusual visit.
Within London, I suggest visiting the Inns of Court. They are beautiful gardens, and a lot of people don't realise you can go in them.
Another suggestion is the Memorial to Heroic Self Sacrifice. It's in Postman's Park in the city and has plaques to people who died while saving others. I was walking past it a few weeks ago and ending up being there an hour.... In fact, the City has a lot of quirky hidden gems, and I recommend a walking tour or similar with someone who has more knowledge than I.
DrHydeous@reddit
Diner’s Delight cafe on Thornton Heath high st.
Glum-Counter6635@reddit
Dungeness is not too far from London. Strange place indeed. Combine it with a few visits to some of the Kent castles
thedudeabides-12@reddit
Portland is a pretty cool place, quite unique..
thatguysaidearlier@reddit
Go to Cheddar in Somerset and find out where 'the' cheese comes from. The gorge is very cool.
In fact, you could do a whole tour of origin places of cheeses of the UK.
Fearless-Quiet-9542@reddit
I recently really enjoyed visiting Big Pit in south wales
Glum-Counter6635@reddit
It's a long way from London but the beaches of Cornwall are spectacular. (North Cornwall, around Newquay are my favourites.) I hear some people who visit UK say our beaches are terrible, mainly because they go to the beaches closest to London. Honestly, we have some outstanding beaches here, don't leave without having seen some.
Devon, Dorset, West Wales, north east England, Scotland (the list goes on) have amazing beaches too.
In short - British beaches!!
Justme-scotland@reddit
Dumfries and Galloway is a hidden gem. A lot of people drive right past us to go to the central belt and highlands but it’s well worth a visit.
Ashamed_Fix9652@reddit
Have you thought of visiting St Bartholomews Hospital? It is on its original site since 1123, the North Wing is open to the public, check times and days
The central square is beautiful and there are a couple of ancient churches too. Also some of the pubs open at crazy times and serve the hugest breakfasts (guess they cateted for the workers from Smith field meat market)
Wonderful-Bonus5439@reddit
Norfolk isnt too far and the beaches are lovely. Horsey beach is famous for all its seals but Wells is my personal fav (Sheringham is the best beach for ice cream though).
Billy_Daftcunt@reddit
Royston Vasey is lovely this time of year
No-Dinner-3715@reddit
If you’ve done the places and cities, head to the countryside. Peak District, Lake District, Eryri national park, Scottish Borders or Highlands, Cotswolds etc etc the list is endless and all have amazing opportunities to see and do great stuff
BaianaBoss@reddit
I know nothing of London so can’t add much there, but if you’ve never been to see the Malvern Hills I’d highly recommend. It’d be a long trip, but there is a direct train from Paddington to Great Malvern which itself is a beautiful town and the hills are one of my favourite places on earth.
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