Hidden Spots in London You'll Want to Instagram
Each time I return to London, I find wonderful places that I can't wait to share. All of these spots are for the folks who want to dig a bit deeper into the city and move past the obvious and mainstream sights. And since Big Ben is covered in scaffolding for the next few years anyway, it's a good idea to switch up what you see if you're heading to the Big Smoke.
One New Change Rooftop
Do you want a lovely view of St. Paul's Cathedral? Then head to the One New Change mall across the street and take the elevator to the top for a lovely view of the church and the city.
Barbican Conservatory
If you love indoor gardens, head to the Barbican Centre on a Sunday between noon and 5 p.m. to get a picturesque green walk among some lovely plants and succulents.
Host Cafe
Coffee is obviously great, but it's even better when it's drunk in a beautiful setting. This cafe is in a gorgeous old church and hidden away from the buzz of the city.
The Attendant Cafe
For another unique cafe, you can find your way into an old Victorian toilet for a cuppa. The Fitzrovia location of this coffee chain is quite odd, but a nice place to escape underground for a drink.
Barbican Launderette
If you want to feel like you've stepped into the 70s, pop into this old-style laundry spot nestled in the Barbican Estates. Doing laundry is not required, but it makes for an interesting photoshoot backdrop.
Sweeney Todd Barber Shop
If you're a Sweeney Todd fan, you'll at least want to walk past this silly little tribute to the legend on the actual Fleet Street. No promises you won't get your throat cut though.
Elan Cafe
The hottest new Instagram craze in London is the Elan Cafe that recently opened in Chelsea. It's perfectly pink and just screams to be photographed. Because of its popularity, there may be a wait to get in, but it's worth it.
The Queen's House
If you want to witness the most beautiful spiral staircase in the world, head over to Greenwich to the Queen's House. It's free to enter and it's a lovely house where former royalty used to spend time. The Tulip Stairs are the highlight of the space.
Tonight Josephine
If you like pink, feminist themes, and tasty cocktails, go to Tonight Josephine. This hotspot is near Waterloo Station and will draw you in with its neon lights. It's best to make a reservation to ensure you get a table.
Paper Mill Studios
If you need an uplifting message or just a great background for a photoshoot, go to this very secret spot in Islington. The walls are perfectly rainbow to fit any sort of look you want to capture and the "Today is your lucky day" is a wonderful quote to see.
King's Cross Tunnel
Unless you're a commuter, you'd never have reason to know about this LED light tunnel that hides in King's Cross. If you go late at night you can have it all to yourself. It's a trip to walk down.
Daunt Books
Sometimes you just want to escape into an old-timey bookstore and the Daunt Books in Marylebone is the place to do that. With a second story filled with used books, you can spend hours in here forgetting where you are.
