The Best Non Touristy Things To Do In London

London is a bustling city whose rich history dates back centuries. There are a multitude of different attractions and activities to explore, from the iconic London Eye Ferris wheel to the bustling markets of Covent Garden. For travelers looking to get beyond the typical tourist traps, London has plenty of options for discovering its unique culture. From food tours to independent film screenings, here are some of the best non-touristy things to do in London.

Explore Local Markets

One of the best ways to get off the beaten path while in London is to explore the city’s many local markets. These markets offer a variety of goods and services, from fresh produce to handcrafted jewelry. The Camden Market is one of the most popular spots in town, offering a variety of international cuisine and unique trinkets. For more unique items, the Brick Lane Market is a great spot for finding antiques and vintage clothing from around the world. The Columbia Road Flower Market is a beautiful spot for those looking for some colorful flora to take home.

Take a Food Tour

London has some of the best cuisine in the world, and one of the best non-touristy things to do in London is to take a food tour. Food tours provide a unique opportunity to explore the city’s culinary offerings while learning about its history and culture. The Borough Market Food Tour is a great option for those looking to sample some of London’s most iconic dishes, while the Shoreditch Food Tour takes visitors through the city’s vibrant East End. For some of London’s best international cuisine, the Camden Food Tour is a great option.

Go to an Independent Film Screening

London is home to many independent film festivals and screenings, making it a great place for film buffs looking for something unique. The BFI Southbank is one of the most popular venues for independent screenings, offering a variety of classic and contemporary films from around the globe. Curzon Soho screens a range of independent films, with a focus on foreign language films and documentaries. The Prince Charles Cinema is another great spot for independent film screenings, as well as cult classics and vintage films.

Take a Walk in Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London’s most popular parks, but it can also be an incredibly peaceful spot to explore. Stroll along the Serpentine Lake, enjoy a picnic in the park’s meadows, or take a boat ride through the park’s bridges. If you’re looking for something a little more active, Hyde Park also offers some great jogging trails, as well as tennis courts and outdoor gyms.

Visit Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace is one of London’s most iconic landmarks, but it is also one of its most underrated attractions. The palace has some unique history and stunning architecture that make it worth exploring. Visitors can explore the palace’s gardens and take a guided tour of its stunning interiors. Kensington Palace also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from outdoor theater performances to art exhibitions.

Sample Some Craft Beer

London is home to some of the best craft beer in the world, and there are plenty of spots where visitors can sample some of its finest brews. The Beavertown Brewery in Hackney is one of London’s most renowned craft beer destinations, offering a variety of ales and lagers in its taproom. Another great spot for craft beer is The Five Points Brewing Company in Hackney Wick, which offers an ever-changing selection of beers on tap.

Visit Little Venice

Little Venice is a hidden gem in London that often goes overlooked by visitors. This charming neighborhood is located on the Regent’s Canal and is home to some beautiful architecture and breathtaking views. Visitors can take a boat ride along the canal and explore its many canalside pubs and cafés.

Explore Shoreditch

Shoreditch is one of London’s trendiest neighborhoods and offers plenty of non-touristy activities for visitors to enjoy. This vibrant area is home to some great street art, as well as trendy bars, restaurants and boutiques. There are also plenty of independent galleries and live music venues where visitors can experience some of London’s best underground culture.

Experience an Escape Room

Escape rooms are becoming increasingly popular around the world, and London is no exception. There are plenty of unique escape rooms for visitors to explore, from murder mysteries to post-apocalyptic scenarios. The Escape Hunt Experience in Marylebone offers a variety of fun and challenging escape rooms that are perfect for groups or individuals looking for something different to do in London.

Go on a Jack the Ripper Tour

The infamous Jack the Ripper case has haunted Londoners since 1888, and visitors can explore this dark chapter of the city’s history with a Jack the Ripper tour. These tours offer an in-depth look at the crimes that were committed during this time period and the various theories surrounding them. The Jack the Ripper Tour by JTR Tours takes visitors through some of the most notorious sites related to this case, including Whitechapel, Spitalfields and Aldgate East.

Popular Tours in London

The Tower Of London Tour By Viator

The Tower Of London tour by Viator is a great option for those looking to explore one of London’s most iconic sites. On this tour, visitors will get an up-close look at some of the tower’s most famous landmarks including Traitor’s Gate, The White Tower and Tower Green. They will also have the opportunity to explore some of its lesser-known attractions such as The Bloody Tower and Tower Hill Memorial Park. This tour includes access to all areas of the tower and lasts approximately two hours. Book The Tower Of London tour here.

The Best Of London Bike Tour By GetYourGuide

The Best Of London Bike Tour by GetYourGuide offers an exciting way to experience London’s sights and sounds. On this tour, visitors can explore some of London’s most iconic landmarks such as Big Ben and Buckingham Palace on two wheels. They will also have the opportunity to see some lesser-known attractions such as Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. This tour lasts approximately three hours and includes bike rental and an experienced guide who will provide insights into London’s history and culture along the way. Book The Best Of London Bike Tour here.

The Original Camden Pub Crawl By Viator

The Original Camden Pub Crawl by Viator is a great way for visitors to explore one of London’s most vibrant nightlife scenes. On this tour, participants will visit five different pubs in Camden Town where they can sample some traditional British beers and ciders as well as some exotic international beverages. The tour includes complimentary shots at each pub as well as discounts on all drinks purchased during the tour that can be used at any time during the night out. This tour lasts approximately three hours and includes an experienced guide who will provide insights into Camden Town’s culture along the way.Book The Original Camden Pub Crawl here.

London has so much to offer travelers who want to get off the beaten path and explore its unique culture and attractions. From food tours to independent film screenings, there are plenty of non-touristy activities that provide an authentic look at what makes this city so special. Whether you’re looking to sample some craft beer or take a walk in Hyde Park, there are plenty of ways to experience all that this amazing city has to offer without succumbing to tourist traps.