18 Hidden Places You Won't Believe Are Actually In London

The Horniman Museum is (IMHO) one of London's best museums, but just out the way enough to stay off the radar. Originally this quirky building used to be owned by a wealthy merchant who filled it with things he took a liking to – a stuffed walrus, a papier mâché construction of the goddess Kali, a stuffed Dodo. You know, the usual.

As well as the fantastically unusual collection, the grounds also have a conservatory that competes with Kew Gardens, and sweeping views across London.

Where:Forest Hill.

This hidden corner of Covent Garden is one of the most colourful in the city. Inside is a hodge-podge of restaurants, cafes and shops (all committed to sustainable and ethical commercial practices) that are well worth finding.

Where:Covent Garden.

The Barbican Estate may not look like much, but inside is a hidden paradise. The building's leafy conservatory (the second biggest in London!) is not only free to visit, but as of last year stays open late on Saturdays with a pop-up bar.

Where:Barbican.

Chinatown is a major draw to London visitors, but locals know that the Four Seasons is the real place to be. Known for its tasty barbecued meats, you can either brave the queues in the three Chinatown branches, or go further afield to find fewer crowds in the original Bayswater branch.

Where:Bayswater and Chinatown.

Just a short walk from St Paul's is Postman's Park, a less obvious but no less compelling London sight. Inside this compact public park is the Watts Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice by George Frederick Watts – built in 1900, its plaques tell the stories of those who lost their lives trying to save others.

Where:Barbican.

This church dates back to 1100 but lies in ruin after being hit with a bomb in 1941. Now hauntingly overrun with greenery, this public park is made all the more surreal by its position in the middle of the City of London.

Where:Blackfriars.

Though Sir John Soane was potentially Britain's most famous neoclassical architect, his former home-turned-museum is much less well known. The architect managed to convince the government to preserve his house and collections of work exactly as they were, and nothing has been touched since 1837.

Where:Holborn.

Eclectic art fans will find a real treasure at The House of Dreams, the terraced home of textile designer Stephen Wright. He's spent the last twenty or so years transforming it into a chaotically wonderful space, and opens it up a few days each year to visitors.

Where:East Dulwich.

This covered market is a fantastical sight that dates back to the 14th century. Though meat and fish used to be the order of the day, its modern incarnation is now full of cool boutiques, buzzy wine bars, and delicious restaurants.

Where:City of London.