Hidden London Spots Even Locals Still Miss

Updated: January 19, 2026 by Michael Kahn. Published: January 19, 2026.

London hides an entirely different city in its gaps and backstreets. Sometimes, even the people who lived there for years rarely see it. They move through the same familiar streets without noticing what lies beyond them.

But London has more to offer than you can imagine. That’s because, beyond the famous landmarks and crowded high streets, there are forgotten courtyards, secret viewpoints, and places that history has almost erased.

What makes these places special is that they reveal layers of London that feel more personal, intimate, and surprising. So what exactly are these spots? Continue reading to learn about the hidden London spots that even locals still miss.

Staying connected while exploring lesser-known London areas

Before we look into the hidden spots in London, let’s first explore the most effective way to stay connected. That’s because you need to stay connected in order to seamlessly navigate the hidden spots, translate historic plaques, or share your discovery in real-time.

The good thing? Staying connected in London is rather straightforward. You can use the best eSIM from incredible providers like Holalfy. This eSIM allows users to connect to strong local networks, such as Vodafone or EE in London, without swapping physical SIM cards.

All its processes are digital. You can purchase and download a data plan for London before you even land. So, from the moment you land in London, you’ll be online. And you can use the online connection to navigate the city, book hotels, get a taxi, and so much more.

In addition, an eSIM allows you to have multiple profiles. So, for example, if you’re planning to travel from London to Vietnam, you don’t have to ask yourself, will my mobile phone work in Vietnam? That’s because an eSIM allows you to seamlessly and digitally switch profiles, depending on whichever region you visit.

Thus, you can easily switch between the London profile and the Vietnam one. So, your mobile phone will work effectively as long as the country you’re in and the local networks available support eSIM use. This flexibility and convenience make the eSIM the best option to stay connected as you travel.

Secret courtyards and tucked-away streets

Once you’re connected, you can easily explore London’s secret courtyards and tucked-away streets. These places offer a rare sense of calm in a city that’s known for its constant movement. They include the following:

Neal’s Yard

You’ll find Neal’s Yard between the busy streets near Covent Garden. It is a tiny and colourful courtyard that boasts independent cafes, organic shops, and a community-focused vibe. This yard is the perfect place for coffee, photos, and people watching.

St Dunstan in the East Garden

St Dunstan in the East Garden is a ruined medieval church that was transformed into a peaceful public garden. You’ll find it tucked in between office buildings. And most commuters often miss it as they rush past it.

Goodwin’s Court

Goodwin’s Court is a narrow and cobbled alley that boasts Georgian shopfronts and old-fashioned lamps. It looks like something straight out of a period film set. What’s more, it will provide you with a rare view of how London used to look in the 18th century.

Jermyn Street’s hidden alley

Jermyn Street is an incredible place to visit. You’ll find Jermyn Street in the St. James area of London. It’s behind the famous shopping street. And it boasts quiet lanes and courtyards that have traditional gentlemen’s outfitters, clubs, and historical architecture.

Underrated neighbourhood cafés and bakeries

London boasts several  branded coffee chains and Instagram-famous pastry shops. In addition to that, it has incredible, underrated neighbourhood cafes and bakeries. You’ll mostly find these underrated cafes and bakeries behind market stalls, inside converted shops, or down residential streets.

The best part? They often serve excellent coffee, homemade pastries, and have a genuine sense of place without the queues or the hype. What’s more, the hidden cafes and bakeries feel more like a community living room than a commercial space.

They boast mismatched chairs, local art on the walls, and baristas who remember regulars’ orders. In addition, the staff available focus on quality ingredients and seasonal menus instead of chasing trends or viral dishes.

They provide the perfect place to be if you want to read, work, or have a proper conversation with family or friends. Some of the underrated neighbourhood cafes and bakeries you can find in London include:

• Kennington Lane Cafe in Kennington
• Lisboa Patisserie on Golborne Road
• 49 Cafe near Marchmont Street
• Boxcar Baker & Deli in Marylebone
• Farm Girl in Notting Hill
• Pophams in Angel
• Kipferl in Islington

Quiet green spaces away from the crowds

London boasts glorious gardens and parks, such as Hyde Park. These spaces are great for picnics and people-watching. However, they can feel crowded and noisy, especially on weekends. The good thing? The city also has quieter green spaces that don’t have many crowds.

They are perfect for reading, sketching, meditating, or simply sitting and watching the seasons change while drinking coffee. Some of these green spaces include:

Meanwhile Gardens

You’ll find the Meanwhile Gardens in Westbourne Park. It is a vibrant and community-run park that boasts Moroccan-style tiles, a canal edge, and plenty of quiet corners that provide the perfect place to sit and listen to the waters and birds.

Camley Street Natural Park

It is located behind King Cross’s Railway Station. This park is full of wildflowers, ponds, and boardwalks. So, if you want to take a short break after a busy day, the Camley Street Natural Park is one of the best places to be.

Museums and galleries that most tourists skip

London has both world-famous museums and galleries and lesser-known ones. The lesser-known museums and galleries often feature niche subjects, local history, or specialised collections. What’s more, they provide for a more relaxed experience free from crowds and long queues.

So, you can take your time, engage with exhibits closely, or even speak with curators directly.  They include:

• Sir John Soan’s Museum 
• The Foundling Museum 
• The Garden Museum
• The Hunterian Museum
• The Cinema Museum
• The Old Operating Theatre & Herb Garret
• The Wallace Collection
• The Guildhall Art Gallery
• The Museum of Brands
• The Vagina Museum
• Dulwich Picture Gallery
• The Courtauld Gallery