Hidden gems in London
When it comes to exploring London you’ve likely heard of the top places to visit, including the London Eye, the Dungeons, Madame Tussaud’s, and the most famous sights of historical interest, as well as the most well known watering holes. But what of the city’s hidden gems, and the paths that are perhaps not so well trodden? Our capital city is a spectacular place for students to explore, and we’d like to share some of the most interesting, yet uncommonly spoken about, things that you can do in London. Prepare for something of an adventure.
Entertainment
Nestled just outside of London, in Leavesden, you will find the Warner Brothers Studio Tour, which is home to the magical Making of Harry Potter. Whether you’re looking to experience Harry Potter as a fan, or as a member of a film society, this is one opportunity not to be missed. Learn all about the films’ sets, locations, costume department, and filming schedules, as well as some behind-the-scenes secrets that only the most hardened film fan will know. Similarly exciting for film fans are the numerous tours that can be undertaken in London. As the backdrop to literally thousands of films, London boasts a similar number of guided tours around its most famous spots – an essential initiation for students, and fans, of everything cinematic. If exploring film sets and learning trade secrets isn’t your thing, why not aim to experience cinema in a new way? The Future Cinema is a fantastic opportunity to truly immerse yourself in some absolute classic films, while the Hot Tub Cinema does what it says on the tin! In terms of music, there are so many underground clubs and venues just waiting to be explored, although we think KaraUKE, a twist on karaoke with a live ukulele backing band, has to be amongst the top ways to spend an evening.
History and culture
No one can doubt London’s immense and captivating history, but there are still numerous museums, properties, and locations that are yet to make the mainstream. For medical students, and the curious, the Old Operating Theatre Museum on St. Thomas Street is a fabulous insight into the surgeries of years gone by, while Highgate Cemetery houses some of the nation’s most beloved literary figures and famous residents; this is one for the English students, or those who appreciate peace, quiet, and gothic architecture. For those aiming to explore the cultural variety that London Houses, the Hindu Temple on Brentfield Road is hard to beat; again, this is a great location for discovering fresh, exciting architecture, while learning about faith. If you’re looking to tread the streets of London, make sure you head to Little Venice, the Kyoto Garden on Holland Park Avenue, or the Word on the Water Book Barge; these are easily overlooked yet immensely interesting venues for discovery, and will provide the perfect antidote to a morning’s lecture or hard night out.
Food and drink
While we’re talking about nights out, it’s worth mentioning the Evans and Peel Detective Agency, an appointment-only cocktail bar offering the opportunity to solve mysteries while you enjoy a beverage, or several. Similarly exciting are the lunchtime concerts offered on various days of the week by St. Martin-in-the-field Church in Trafalgar Square; never before has discovering new musical talent been quite so appealing. For those who like their lunches with a little more history, the Wapping Project offers a sumptuous menu served in a disused power station, while Ye Olde Mitre pub serves a fantastic array of food and drink on one of London’s hottest film sets. Of course, eating al fresco is a great way to get a little fresh air between lectures, or trips to the many, many historical sites in London, and a picnic in the park or beside the river should never be overlooked.
Whether you’ve lived in London your whole life, are just beginning your studies at one of its many universities, or are visiting from a campus far away, there is so much in our capital to amuse, captivate, and educate even the hardiest student. Put away that tourist guide and prepare to leave the beaten track; we’re going on an adventure.
Category: Entertainment
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