When envisioning London, iconic landmarks like the London Eye, red telephone boxes, and Big Ben typically spring to mind. The UK capital has rightfully earned its place as one of the world's premier destinations, recently securing second position in Tripadvisor's prestigious Travellers' Choice Awards Best of the Best 2026. However, beyond these celebrated tourist attractions lies a wealth of undiscovered treasures waiting to be explored.
Beyond the Beaten Path
The Daily Mail's travel team has unveiled a collection of must-see locations, hidden secrets, and exceptional experiences that exist away from London's well-trodden tourist routes. From serene parks and peaceful suburbs to eccentric museums and concealed delights, the capital reveals far more than initial impressions might suggest.
Neighbourhood Discoveries
Lonsdale Road in Queen's Park represents one of London's most underrated locations according to travel writer Erin Deborah Waks. This charming street offers a European-style al fresco atmosphere with excellent independent cafes and restaurants, situated just minutes from the park amidst typically London-esque houses. Notable highlights include the bakery Don't Tell Dad, renowned for its hazelnut and brown butter pastry, and the restaurant Carmel.
Exmouth Market in Clerkenwell presents a culinary paradise rather than a traditional market. This vibrant street features exceptional bars and eateries, including the independent brewery Mikkeller, celebrated for serving some of London's finest pints, and Shawarma Bar offering delicious Middle Eastern cuisine. The area also boasts Barber Streisand, arguably the city's most inventively named barber shop.
Cultural Treasures
The Design Museum in Kensington often remains overshadowed by more famous institutions like the Natural History Museum and Science Museum. Deputy Travel Editor Hayley Minn highlights its excellent temporary exhibitions, including the current Wes Anderson: The Archives display featuring props and costumes from the director's films. Visitors can admire iconic costumes from The Royal Tenenbaums and puppets from The Fantastic Mr Fox and Isle of Dogs.
The Wallace Collection offers one of London's most beautiful assemblies of art, paintings, furniture, and porcelain, with the added benefit of free admission. Daily guided tours at 2.30pm bring the collection's history to life, revealing fascinating stories behind items ranging from historic armchairs to porcelain owned by Madame de Pompadour.
Green Spaces and Gardens
The Hill Garden and Pergola in Hampstead Heath provides a thoroughly underrated escape according to travel writer Jowena Riley. This romantic location features Georgian architecture, weathered wooden beams, overgrown wisteria, manicured gardens, vibrant meadows, and even a free mini zoo housing fallow deer, lemurs, wallabies, and various birds.
Wimbledon Park, a Grade II listed park adjacent to the All England Lawn Tennis Club, offers a large lake for wildlife spotting, numerous walking routes, and a cafe. The area inspired Raymond Briggs, author of The Snowman, with visitors able to retrace steps from his childhood home to the park that influenced his storytelling.
Riverside and Canal Explorations
Old Palace Lane in Richmond provides a peaceful alternative to crowded tourist spots. Assistant Lifestyle & Travel Editor Joanna Tweedy recommends exploring this historic area, passing through Old Palace Yard and Trumpeter's Lodge before reaching the towpath. The walk towards Richmond Bridge offers some of the Thames's most picturesque views with fewer visitors.
Regents Canal stretches 8.6 miles from Little Venice to Limehouse Basin, passing through famous neighbourhoods including Maida Vale, Kings Cross, and Regent's Park. Executive Travel Editor Genie Harrison suggests joining the canal from Duncan Terrace near Angel Station and walking eastwards, stopping at Towpath for brunch or The Rosemary Branch pub for refreshments.
Urban Escapes
Coal Drops Yard in Kings Cross perfectly combines shopping, dining, art, and green space just five minutes from King's Cross station. This vibrant area features art installations, immersive light shows at Lightroom, and diverse dining options from Italian restaurants to Asian cuisine, with highlights including Middle Eastern restaurant Bubala and the floating bookshop Word On The Water.
Belsize Park offers a small neighbourhood feel while remaining close to central London. Travel reporter Alesia Fiddler highlights Haverstock Hill as perfect for charity shop browsing and cafe relaxation, with proximity to Hampstead Heath enhancing the sense of urban escape.
Panoramic Views and Historical Sites
Greenwich Park provides spectacular free views across London from the hilltop near the Royal Observatory. Visitors can admire historical landmarks like the Queen's House and Royal Naval College against the backdrop of modern Canary Wharf skyscrapers. The area also features the magnificent Painted Hall and Greenwich Market for food and handmade gifts.
Stepney Green Farm offers a bucolic haven in East London, featuring 4.5 acres housing sheep, goats, rabbits, pigs, and farm cats. This working farm hosts a Saturday Farmer's Market and provides free admission for children and parents, complete with a cafe perfect for post-visit refreshments.
Historical Insights
The Foundling Museum in Bloomsbury tells the poignant story of Britain's first home for abandoned children. The museum displays heartbreaking tokens left by parents forced to relinquish their children, serving as identifiers should they return. This fascinating institution inspired Jacqueline Wilson's Hetty Feather children's book series.
These diverse locations demonstrate that London's true character extends far beyond its famous landmarks, offering residents and visitors alike countless opportunities to discover the capital's hidden depths and unexpected pleasures.
