Discover Quirky Things To Do In London

London is a city of endless possibilities, but for those seeking a departure from the conventional, a whole other side awaits. Beyond Big Ben and the Tower of London, there are countless quirky things to do in London that promise unique memories and fascinating discoveries. If you’re looking to unearth the city’s hidden gems and embrace its eccentric charm, you’ve come to the right place.

Unearthing Hidden Gems: Quirky Things To Do In London

For visitors and locals alike, the desire to experience something truly different is strong. London excels at providing these one-of-a-kind moments, blending history with eccentricity and art with the unexpected. Get ready to add some truly unusual spots to your itinerary.

Step Back in Time at Dennis Severs’ House

Located in Spitalfields, Dennis Severs’ House offers an incredibly immersive experience. This Georgian terraced house is preserved as if a family of Huguenot silk weavers has just left the room, leaving behind embers in the fireplace and half-eaten meals on the table. It’s not a museum in the traditional sense, but rather a ‘still-life drama’ designed to awaken your senses and transport you to another era.

Visitors are encouraged to explore in silence, absorbing the atmosphere, smells, and subtle sounds. It’s one of the most wonderfully quirky things to do in London, offering a profound sense of stepping into a living past.

Explore the Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities

If you have a penchant for the bizarre and the macabre, the Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities, Fine Art & Natural History in Hackney is a must-visit. This small, independent museum is packed floor-to-ceiling with taxidermy, occult objects, anatomical anomalies, and other strange artifacts.

From two-headed lambs to real fairy skeletons and celebrity excrement, it’s a truly unforgettable and somewhat unsettling experience. This destination epitomizes the spirit of quirky things to do in London for those with an open mind and a strong stomach.

Wander Through the Crossness Pumping Station

Often referred to as the ‘Cathedral of Sewage’, Crossness Pumping Station in South East London is a magnificent example of Victorian engineering and architecture. Designed by Sir Joseph Bazalgette, its ornate ironwork and stunning interiors are a testament to the era’s commitment to both function and beauty.

While its original purpose was far from glamorous, a visit here offers a fascinating insight into London’s industrial past and a chance to marvel at its restored engines. It’s an unexpectedly beautiful and educational choice among the many quirky things to do in London.

Eccentric Adventures and Unusual Outings

London’s quirky side extends beyond museums and historical sites, offering unique activities and vibrant subcultures to discover.

Visit the Grant Museum of Zoology

Part of University College London, the Grant Museum of Zoology houses one of the oldest natural history collections in the UK. What makes it particularly quirky is its ‘Jar Wall’ – thousands of specimens preserved in fluid – and its collection of extinct animal skeletons, including a dodo.

It’s a compact yet captivating museum that offers a glimpse into the diversity of life on Earth, often with a slightly macabre edge. For lovers of science and the unusual, this is a top contender for quirky things to do in London.

Discover the Eerie Brompton Cemetery

One of London’s ‘Magnificent Seven’ Victorian cemeteries, Brompton Cemetery is a Grade I listed park and a stunning example of garden cemetery design. Beyond its beautiful architecture and elaborate monuments, it’s a peaceful oasis perfect for a reflective stroll.

Look out for the catacombs and the grand central dome, and enjoy the rich biodiversity. It’s a surprisingly serene and historically rich addition to your list of quirky things to do in London.

Explore God’s Own Junkyard

Hidden away in Walthamstow, God’s Own Junkyard is a dazzling neon wonderland. This incredible space is a gallery, workshop, and museum dedicated to the art of neon signs, created by the late Chris Bracey. It’s an explosion of light and colour, featuring everything from vintage movie props to bespoke art pieces.

There’s also a cafe on site, making it a perfect spot to grab a drink amidst the glowing artworks. This vibrant spectacle is truly one of the most visually stimulating and quirky things to do in London.

Attend a Show at Wilton’s Music Hall

Wilton’s Music Hall in Shadwell is the world’s last surviving grand music hall. This atmospheric venue, with its peeling paint and gaslight-era charm, hosts a diverse programme of theatre, concerts, and cabaret. It’s a truly unique step back in time, offering an intimate and evocative experience.

Catching a performance here is not just about the show; it’s about soaking in the history of this magnificent, slightly dilapidated gem. It’s a beautifully historic and quirky thing to do in London for culture enthusiasts.

Culinary Curiosities and Unique Shopping

Even dining and shopping in London can take a quirky turn, offering experiences that go beyond the typical high street.

Visit Columbia Road Flower Market

Every Sunday, Columbia Road in East London transforms into a vibrant, fragrant oasis. Independent flower sellers line the street, hawking beautiful blooms and plants amidst a cacophony of cockney banter. It’s a sensory delight and a truly authentic London experience.

Beyond the flowers, the surrounding streets are home to independent boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. This bustling market is a lively and charming addition to the list of quirky things to do in London.

Dine at a Themed Restaurant

London boasts a fantastic array of themed restaurants that offer more than just a meal. Consider options like the eccentric Sketch in Mayfair, known for its wildly imaginative interiors and pod-like toilets, or a themed afternoon tea experience.

From immersive dining experiences to restaurants with unusual decor, these establishments turn eating out into an adventure, making them some of the more delectable quirky things to do in London.

Embrace the Unusual in London

London’s true charm often lies in its ability to surprise and delight with the unexpected. Venturing beyond the well-trodden paths opens up a world of fascinating discoveries and truly memorable experiences. The city is brimming with character, and these quirky things to do in London are just a starting point for your unique adventure.

So, next time you’re planning a trip to the capital, dare to be different. Seek out the unusual, embrace the eccentric, and uncover the hidden wonders that make London such a captivating and endlessly intriguing destination. What unique London adventure will you embark on first?