Your Guide to Unusual Things to Do in London

Heading to London but feeling lost about what to do? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! When I first visited this historic city, dating back to Roman times, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of tourist attractions.

But fear not! This guide is here to help you navigate the incredibly cool and off-the-beaten-path experiences London has to offer. Let’s dive in, shall we?

Unusual Things to Do in London

Beyond the iconic landmarks, London boasts a treasure trove of quirky and unexpected delights. From exploring hidden gardens nestled amongst towering buildings to venturing into disused underground tunnels, the city offers unique experiences for every taste.

Sleepover at the Zoo

Looking for unusual things to do in London that are wilder than your average tourist trap? Then a sleepover at London Zoo might be just the ticket! These special events allow you to explore the zoo after dark when the regular crowds have gone home. Imagine having the chance to see how the animals behave at night, with some zoos even offering opportunities to help prepare special treats for them.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! After an exciting evening of animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours, you’ll get to snuggle up in cosy cabins or tents right within the zoo grounds. Wake up to the sounds of the waking animals and enjoy a special breakfast before the zoo opens to the public once more. It’s an unforgettable chance to create memories that will last a lifetime!

A Slice of Bohemia: Eel Pie Island

Nestled on a bend of the River Thames lies a secret haven and one of the top attractions in London for art enthusiasts: Eel Pie Island. This hidden gem boasts a rich and colourful history, transforming from a bustling 60s music scene that saw performances by the likes of The Rolling Stones and Pink Floyd to a haven for artists today.

While public access is limited, the island opens its doors a couple of times a year for visitors to explore the vibrant community. Wander through the winding lanes and discover a treasure trove of artists’ studios. Peek in and witness painters bringing canvases to life, potters shaping the clay, and sculptors transforming raw materials into stunning creations. Engage with the artists themselves, learn about their creative process, and maybe even find a unique piece of art to take home as a memento of your off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Eel Pie Island offers a glimpse into a thriving artistic community, a world away from the bustling streets of London. It’s a place to soak up the creative atmosphere, discover hidden talents, and perhaps even ignite some artistic inspiration of your own.

The Secret Sewing Machine Museum

For a truly unique experience, delve into the fascinating world of historic sewing machines at the London Sewing Machine Museum. Hidden away within a working sewing machine shop in Tooting Bec, this secret gem is a haven for history buffs and sewing enthusiasts alike.

Run by a passionate collector, the museum boasts an incredible collection of hundreds of vintage machines, some dating back to the 1830s. See the evolution of sewing technology firsthand, from the earliest hand-crank models to the more modern electric marvels. Marvel at ornately decorated machines and discover the ingenuity behind these tools that revolutionised the fashion industry.

The museum is only open for a few hours on the first Saturday of each month, adding to its clandestine charm. It’s a free visit (donations are welcome) and offers a delightful opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind these everyday objects. Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or simply curious about the tools that once clothed the world, the Secret Sewing Machine Museum promises quirky and unusual things to do in London.

Dine in the Dark

One of the most amazing and unusual things to do in London is dining in complete darkness. Without the sense of sight, your other senses, like taste, smell, and touch, become heightened, making every bite a delightful surprise. Not only does it offer a thrilling adventure for your taste buds, but it also raises awareness about visual impairment and challenges our preconceived notions about food.

Glow-in-the-dark Life Drawing

One unique and creative activity to try in London is glow-in-the-dark life drawing. This experience combines art and entertainment, allowing you to showcase your artistic skills while under neon lights.

Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just looking for something fun to do, this activity offers a memorable and unconventional way to explore your creativity. You’ll be provided with all the necessary materials and guidance, making it accessible for beginners as well.

So grab a paintbrush and let your imagination run wild as you create stunning artworks that come to life in the dark.

Visit a Riverside Creek

One of the unique and offbeat things to do in London is to visit a riverside creek. This is especially appealing for nature lovers and history buffs who want to escape the bustling city streets and explore a more serene side of London.

Along the banks of these creeks, you can take leisurely walks, go bird-watching, or simply sit back and enjoy the peaceful ambience. Some popular creeks to visit include the River Wandle, which winds its way through South London with quaint watermills and beautiful green spaces along its banks.

Another option is the River Brent, which offers scenic walking trails and picturesque views of the surrounding countryside. So, if you’re looking for a relaxing outdoor adventure in London, don’t miss out on exploring one of these riverside creeks.

Dine on a Vintage Tube Carriage

I had the most incredible experience having dinner on a vintage tube carriage in London. It was like stepping back in time and immersing myself in the city’s rich history. The carriage was beautifully restored, with authentic details and furnishings from the past.

As I enjoyed my meal, I couldn’t help but imagine what it would have been like to travel through London on these old-fashioned trains. It was a truly unique dining experience that appealed to both my love for food and my fascination with history.

A Tour of London’s Weirdest Museum

One of the most unusual things to do in London is to take a tour of one of its weirdest museums. With so many unique attractions in the city, there’s no shortage of strange and fascinating collections to explore.

From the Museum of Curiosities, showcasing oddities from around the world, to The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities, Fine Art & Natural History, where you can see an eclectic mix of taxidermy animals and bizarre artefacts, there’s something for everyone.

London’s Longest Graffiti Wall

Have you ever wanted to leave your mark on a piece of urban art? Well, in London, you have the chance to do just that at the city’s longest graffiti wall. Located in a vibrant neighbourhood, this colourful masterpiece stretches for an impressive length and serves as a canvas for both local artists and visitors alike.

Not only will you have fun spray-painting your own design, but you’ll also be part of an ever-changing display of artistic expression. So grab a can of paint and let your imagination run wild on London’s longest graffiti wall!

Meet Highly Unusual Robots

If you’re looking for unusual things to do in London, why not meet some highly unusual robots? One such experience is the Robot Restaurant in Shoreditch. This futuristic dining establishment combines cutting-edge technology with delicious food to create an unforgettable evening.

From robot bartenders mixing up your favourite cocktails to robotic servers bringing your meal right to your table, this restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind dining adventure.

Another place where you can encounter these remarkable machines is at the Science Museum’s Robots Exhibition. Here, you can marvel at humanoid robots that can walk and talk like humans or interact with interactive exhibits that demonstrate how robots have been used throughout history.

Take Selfies at a Neon Gallery

The neon lights create a mesmerising and Instagram-worthy atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to capture unique and memorable photos. So grab your camera and strike a pose at this one-of-a-kind neon gallery in London!

Explore a Hidden Roman Temple

One of the cool and unusual things to do in London is to explore a hidden Roman temple. London is filled with historical attractions, and this hidden gem takes you back to ancient Roman times.

The temple, tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, offers a glimpse into London’s rich history and heritage. As you wander through the temple ruins, you can imagine what life was like during the time of the Romans.

Unique and Quirky Food and Drink in London

London’s food scene is far more adventurous than just a plate of fish and chips. Craving cheese? Skip the waiter and grab a gooey delight from a cheese conveyor belt! Feeling adventurous? Dine in complete darkness, letting your taste buds take centre stage. And for the ultimate Instagram moment, don’t miss the legendary rainbow bagel.

Looking for a tipple with a twist? London offers boozy afternoon teas, perfect for a sophisticated (and slightly tipsy) indulgence. Fancy learning a new skill? Sign up for a chocolate and wine pairing class, a delicious exploration of flavour profiles. Hidden bars are all the rage – test your detective skills by seeking out a secret cocktail haven disguised behind a vending machine. For the truly intrepid foodie, insect-based dishes await at a bug-themed restaurant. Feeling more traditional? London’s street food markets offer a global smorgasbord, while revamped afternoon teas provide a classic experience with a modern twist. No matter your taste buds’ desire, London’s culinary scene has a quirky and delicious adventure waiting for you.

Conclusion

London is a treasure trove of unique and unconventional experiences. With cool and unusual things to do, you’ll never run out of exciting adventures in the city. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the quirky side of this vibrant city!