London's Hidden Gems: Your Ultimate Guide to Adventure
- Rasha Mediene
- Aug 24
- 4 min read
Hey there roamers! If you’re tired of the same old Big Ben and London Eye pics flooding your Instagram feed, it’s time to level up your London game. I’ve got the inside scoop on some of the city’s coolest, quirkiest, and downright fun spots that’ll make your trip unforgettable. So, grab your cuppa, settle in, and let’s dive into London’s hidden gems!
1. The Hot Tub Boat
Yes, you read that right. It’s a hot tub. On a boat. Cruising down the Thames. Picture this: you, a bunch of friends, a hot tub, and London’s iconic skyline floating by. It’s like the ultimate pool party with a seriously epic view. Make it an even more a unique experience by going while its snowing! That’ll get people talking!
Pricing: Starts at £225 for a 90-minute session (fits up to 7 people). Worth every penny for that unique experience, trust me. (Prices vary if you have less people)
Hours: 10 AM to 10 PM. Best enjoyed at sunset for those killer Instagram shots.
Website: Hot Tub Boat
2. Alcotraz: The Prison Cocktail Experience
Fancy doing some time? At Alcotraz, you get to experience life behind bars—but with a cocktail in hand. This immersive experience involves smuggling in your own booze, which the “inmates” (aka bartenders) turn into delicious cocktails while you dodge the warden and swap stories with fellow "prisoners."
Pricing: Roughly £49.99 per person. Your ticket to the slammer includes mocktails, if you want cocktails, you actually have to sneak in your own UNOPENED bottle for the bartenders to use to make your drinks on the inside.
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, with various session times. Book in advance, this place is popular!
Website: Alcotraz
3. Emirates Air Line Cable Cars
If you’ve ever wanted to glide over the Thames like a bird, the Emirates Air Line Cable Cars are your ticket to aerial adventure. Linking the Greenwich Peninsula with the Royal Docks, this isn’t just a ride—it’s a view to remember.
Pricing: £5 one way or £10 for a return trip. And yep, you can use your Oyster card!
Hours: Daily from 7 AM to 11 PM. The nighttime views are spectacular with the city lights.
Website: Emirates Air Line
4. Afternoon Tea on a Double-Decker Bus
Imagine this: sipping on Earl Grey, nibbling on scones, and sightseeing—all from the comfort of a classic red double-decker bus. I haven’t tried this one myself, but it’s high on my list. Tea and tour, what’s not to love?
Pricing: Around £45 per person. Pricey, but it's tea with a twist!
Hours: Tours usually last 1.5 hours, with multiple daily departures. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
Website: B Bakery Bus
5. INCA London
Prepare for a feast for the senses at INCA London, where Latin American vibes meet modern London chic. This isn’t just dinner—it’s a full-on show. Think dazzling performances, exotic flavors, and a night out you won’t forget.
Pricing: Expect to spend around £80 per person for dinner and drinks. It’s a bit of a splurge, but hey, YOLO.
Hours: Open from 7 PM to 3 AM, Thursday to Saturday. Bring your dancing shoes!
Website: INCA London
6. Sky Garden
The Iconic, Sky Garden. This isn’t just any garden, it’s 155 meters up in the sky, with 360-degree views of London. Wander among lush greenery, sip on cocktails, and feel on top of the world. And the best part? It’s free! Unfortunately, I didn’t get any good photos here.
Pricing: Free entry, but you need to book in advance.
Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM weekdays, and until 10 PM on weekends. Sunset views are a must-see.
Website: Sky Garden
7. Ballie Ballerson
Ever want to go back to being a child? Well this might just be the place for you! Ballie Ballerson is an adult ball pit, bar & nightclub. You can come in to just use the pits, or enjoy a birthday party, all with extremely affordable pricing! This is a place you definitely don’t want to miss!
Pricing: Starts at £5 to enter just the pits, and £30 for a birthday booth with 4 drinks
Hours: Monday: Closed Tuesday - Thursday 6pm –12am
Friday 5pm–2am Saturday12pm–2am Sunday 2:30pm –12am
Website: Ballie Ballerson
8. Man trapped inside a clock at Paddington Station
Installed back in 2021, this clock appears as if the time is being painted onto the clock face by a man who seems trapped inside the clock. Each minute he erases the minute hand before redrawing it into its new correct position. Literally marking the minutes before your train departs!
Pricing: Free @ 50 Eastbourne Terrace on the entrance to the office building
Hours: 24/7
So, there you have it, London’s best kept secrets just waiting for you to uncover. Whether you’re soaking in a hot tub boat or sipping cocktails in a mock prison, these experiences are guaranteed to spice up your London adventure. Go forth and explore, and don’t forget to take plenty of pics.
Cheers, mates! 🍻
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