With clear blue skies and a blazing sun overhead, it is safe to say that summer has hit London, at least for some days. Now is the perfect time to discover those corners of the city that you probably never even knew existed. We at Derby Hotels Collection have scoured the capital looking for exciting and unfamiliar locations, barely visited by tourists, that we are certain will delight and inspire you.
1. Little Venice
© London&Partners
Within walking distance of Paddington station, Little Venice is the point at which two of London’s most picturesque canals meet – the Grand Union and Regent’s Canal. We recommend you to take one of the boat trips to visit the London Zoo or Camden, or take a stroll along pretty streets of Maida Vale with gorgeous cafes serving up steaming coffees and sweet pastries, pubs providing thirst-quenching beverages, and restaurants with food from all over the world. And, magically, most are built into the canals’ narrow boats.
2. Highgate Cemetery
© Highgate Cemetery.org
For something a little more spooky and full of history head to the Highgate Cemetery. With 53,000 graves inhabited by figures like revolutionary Karl Marx or George Eliot, one of the UK’s finest writers, Highgate Cemetery is a mysterious and fascinating site. First opened in the early 19th century, the cemetery has experienced tremendous changes over the years, and its volunteer guides will talk you through its history as they show you around its astonishing and chilling architecture, from the Terrace Catacombs to the mausoleum of Julius Beer.
3. Dulwich Picture Gallery
Another enchanting piece of London history is the Dulwich Picture Gallery in South London. The Gallery is the oldest public art gallery in England and its innovative design -masterminded by renowned architect Sir John Soane- was revolutionary at the time it was built. Its ground-breaking architecture and historical significance are easily reason enough to visit the Gallery, however its rich collection of French, Italian and Spanish Baroque paintings, alongside the fantastic exhibitions it puts on all year round, make it a must-see on your visit to the Capital. After the visit, recharge batteries at the lovely open-air café outside.
4. Richmond Park
Richmond Park in South West London will have you thinking that you have left the City completely. It is the largest of London’s eight Royal Parks and it is London’s biggest enclosed space. It is full of beauty, and thanks to its remarkable size it will treat you to truly magnificent scenery. The Park takes on the distinctive character of the four seasons, and this summer you can hear the buzz of its bees and smell the scent of its azaleas in its Isabella Plantation. You can also get up close to the herds of red and fallow deer that roam the Park’s grassland and sun-dappled woods. Richmond Park is a real country adventure in the city and a perfect place for your picnic.
5. Trinity Buoy Wharf
© trinitybuoywharf
Finally, we will leave you with the quirkiest attraction on the list: Trinity Buoy Wharf. Regarded as the Dockland’s Arts Quarter, Trinity Buoy Wharf is an area full of imagination and creativity. You can find it by following a trail of vibrant designs of chewing gum art by artist Ben Wilson that leads from East India DLR station, home of the only lighthouse in London. The Wharf made from disused and brightly coloured shipping containers street art that can be found throughout the district, including an American Diner that serves delicious burgers and classic malted milkshakes. This offbeat and whimsical quarter of London will leave a fabulous impression on you and cannot be missed.
Complete this exciting tour of the Capital at the Silver Award winning The Caesar Hotel. With an excellent location in Queensway, one minute walk away to Hyde Park, The Caesar combines comfort, design and art, all in one place and offers great hospitality packages too, so you can make the most of your London break.
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