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9 Very British Things to Do in London You Won’t Find on Your Average Bucket List

May 2, 2018

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London is Europe’s most visited city, mainly because it’s a vibrant international center of culture, music, fashion, and trade. Granted, there’s the London Eye, Big Ben, and Madame Tussauds; but travelers looking to experience the best and most authentic pieces of London will find that it has plenty of other attractions worth adding to your travel bucket list.

9 Very British Things to Do in London You Must Not Miss

If you’re looking to escape the tourist crowds and explore the city like a local, here’s our list of 9 very British things to do in London that isn’t included on your average bucket list.

1Take a stroll along the Thames Path

The Travel Speak – Things to Do In London- Take a stroll along the Thames Path

London’s River Thames, and the Thames Path wind through many of London’s hidden treasures. The 40-mile-long trail will take you to see some of the most popular attractions like Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London, but it also offers plenty of quieter spots to be discovered. Along with enjoying public beaches and the quaint village of Rotherhithe, Secret London suggests exploring the Kew Gardens, appreciating the imposing Battersea Power Station, or taking a detour to the Crossrail Palace Roof Garden.

2Discover a local speakeasy

The Travel Speak – Things to Do In London – Discover a local speakeasy

In the evenings, head over to one of the city’s secret bars and speakeasies for delicious cocktails in hidden, intimate venues. You didn’t hear it from us – but some of the top options include the Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town in Shoreditch and The Luggage Room in Mayfair. The entrance to the former is hidden in a fridge, and you have to ask to see the Mayor before being let in.

3See a sing-along film

The Travel Speak – Things to Do In London – See a sing-along film

If you’re looking for some interactive fun, consider adding a visit to the Prince Charles cinema to your travel bucket list. An independent cinema in Soho, Prince Charles hosts sing-along film screenings of movies like Grease, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Frozen, and the recently released hit The Greatest Showman. Afterwards, feel free to explore the infamous Soho neighborhood and enjoy the district’s bars and restaurants at the heart of the West End.

4Pay a visit to the UK’s oldest bingo halls

The Travel Speak – Things to Do In London – Pay a visit to the UK’s oldest bingo halls

The British have a widely celebrated love affair with bingo, and London is the center of its long history. Pay a visit to Granada Cinema in Southeast London to see grand 1930s Art Deco walls that have housed thousands of games and stood witness to entire communities over the years. You can also stop by Elephant and Castle Shopping Centre in South London for a blast from the more recent past, as it was constructed in the 1960s. Said buildings stand as a testament to the UK’s enduring and social bingo culture, which has grown from a few players to a large community of bingo enthusiasts.

More recently, these communities have also expanded into the digital space. Reputable gaming site Foxy Bingo sheds light on the strength and energy of online communities comprised of loyal and diverse bingo players in the UK. These fellowships exemplify how this simple but fun game has been a crucial cultural fixture. In truth, online platforms add another level of convenience, accessibility, and interactivity for enthusiasts and casual players alike, contributing to the locals’ love for bingo and all the fun that comes with it. Immersing yourself in the experience by being present in the city’s iconic bingo halls will give you a glimpse into how strangely unique these social hubs really are.

5Step back in time at Wilton’s Music Hall

The Travel Speak – Things to Do In London – Step back in time at Wilton’s Music Hall

Photo Credit: Wilton’s Music Hall

Tucked away on an otherwise unremarkable alley along Whitechapel, Wilton’s Music Hall is London’s oldest grand music hall and a more-than-worthy addition to your travel bucket list. The East End’s best-kept secret, the music hall dates back all the way to 1690 and has been renovated in recent years to keep its beautiful interiors authentic and its performing spaces more usable. Catch a show, go along for dance nights or family shows, or even just meet up with some friends for drinks.

6Take a London street art tour

The Travel Speak – Things to Do In London – Take a London street art tour

After having your fill of classic art at London’s many museums, have a taste of the here and now through street art tours around the ever-changing walls of East London. Buzzfeed shares that the tour starts near Spitalfields Market Mondays to Fridays, and usually last around two hours on foot or by bike.

7Enjoy England’s national dish

The Travel Speak – Things to Do In London – Enjoy England’s national dish

Fish and chips is basically a British institution, and you can not have a travel bucket list without having a taste of this quintessentially English dish at any of the local restaurants and pubs. Stay away from posh gastropubs and head out to deceivingly non-descript fish and chips shops for a cheaper and more authentic meal. For a sit-down meal, try the award-winning Toff’s in Muswell Hill or The Grapes in Limehouse for a fish and chips dinner with a view.

8Shop like a local

The Travel Speak – Things to Do In London – Shop like a local

London markets are as common as they are diverse, selling everything from food to flowers, antiques to contemporary art, high-fashion clothes and vintage fare. Sprawling markets for a full-day exploration include Spitalfields, Camden Market, and Portobello Road. But those looking for a less tiring experience can check out the Borough Market, Brick Lane Market, or the Maltby Street Market.

9Have amazing afternoon tea

The Travel Speak – Things to Do In London – Have amazing afternoon tea

Perhaps the only thing more essentially British than fish and chips is the afternoon tea. It is a cultural activity that you absolutely must have on your travel bucket list. Try out Prêt-à-Portea Afternoon tea for a dainty and posh experience. You can also consider an alternative experience with Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium. Claridge’s Afternoon Tea and Vertigo 42 are also great options.

London is a vibrant city with thousands of surprises for the intrepid traveler – if you know where to look. To add more resources for your list, don’t forget to check out The Travel Speak’s list of top London destinations.

Happy Travels.