Non-Touristy Things To Do In London In 2024

There’s so much to do and see in the capital, so you really need to know what’s what before you take it on. If you want to avoid tourist traps in exchange for more the best things to do in London that aren't touristy, we've got you covered. There’s rooftops with views of famous landmarks, cool pubs with arcade games and if you're not afraid of water - floating restaurants and boat bars. Buckle up and get booking, because here's a local's guide to discovering things off the beaten track that aren't part of the usual London bucket list. 

Last edited by Scarlett Welch

Last updated on 19th September 2024




The Pretty Parlour

If you fancy venturing a little further to the beautiful borough of Ealing on your visit to London, then be sure to stop by The Pretty Parlour. This unique venue combines high-quality nail treatments with amazing cocktails and Veuve Clicquot Champagne, making for a luxurious pampering session. Choose between 13 different cruelty-free products, with hot towels and head massages on the cards too.

Silent Sounds Boat Party

@ The Silent Disco Boat on Saturday 30th November and Saturday 25th January 2025

If you're looking for a way to explore the city without the crowds, then head on a Silent Sounds Boat Party. Available in the afternoon and the evening, this fun-filled event sees you cruising down the Thames while boogieing to silent disco tunes. This two-storey boast has a bar on each level, with plenty of outdoor space that's perfect for seeing all the landmarks along the way.

Hidden Jazz Club

There's something to be said for finding a hidden gem. If you love jazz and a good night out, grab yourself some tickets to the Hidden Jazz Club. This artist-run pop-up has sets from some of the best in the biz and tickets start at just £20 a pop. 

The Best London Bars On A Boat

We all know that London is full of great bars, but when you're searching for something a little more unique? We've got just the thing. These bars on a boat are a great way to enjoy the city's rivers and canals, with a pint in hand of course.

Whether you fancy boogieing to a silent disco on the Thames, drinking on a barge in Hackney or admiring the skyline from a floating cocktail bar, there's something for everyone here.

Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Mayfair

Complimentary Bottle of Champagne for parties of 6+ adults and 2 other offers

Step into one of the city's most luxurious hotels for a unique offering: the Original Sweetshop Afternoon Tea at the Chesterfield Mayfair. Having won an Award of Excellence at the Afternoon Tea Awards, this £75 offering brings you tiers full of nostalgic treats paired with hot chocolate or teas such as yellow gold oolong and liquorice blends. Expect free range egg or honey-roasted ham sandwiches, paired with classic scones and themed homemade pastries like the cherry love heart cheesecake.

Midnight Apothecary

This stunning rooftop garden near the Thames was voted the most sustainable roof gardens in the world and we can't gatekeep it any longer. They garnish their cocktails with ingredients they grow themselves and they have a fire pit year-round where you can toast S'mores. Tickets are from as little at £8 too, so an absolute bargain. 

Best Brewery Tours In London

When you think of London, do you think of beer? Thought so. If you're looking to do something a little bit different in the city, have a snoop at London's best brewery tours. You'll get history lessons, plenty of beer, complimentary cheese boards and in some cases, some free merch. 

Alcotraz: Prison Cocktail Bars

Love theatre but seen it all? Take a journey to Hoxton to find Alcotraz; London's BYOB prison-themed bar, where you'll be trusted with becoming part of the story line. You'll be expected to sneak a bottle of booze past the guards in an orange jump suit in pursuit of criminally good cocktails. 

Waterside Walks

Some of the best non-touristy neighbourhoods in London just happen to be on the water, making for a great walking route and plenty of pubs and bars along the way. 

We've got strolls in King's Cross along the Southbank and beyond, but our absolute favourite is the stretch from Little Venice to Camden. Soak up the canalside views and admire all the cute boats along the way, before ending up at the vibrant market for well-deserved refreshments.

13 Best Spots To Watch The Sunset

Torrential downpour or glorious sunshine, London always takes our breath away. If you want to do something that's non-touristy, take a look at these grade A ways to catch the sun set across the city. Think steak dinners with Thames-side views to walks through London's most iconic postcodes. 

Enjoy The View

Ever wondered where to get the very best views in London? Luckily for you, there are quite a few brilliant places to choose from, whether it's a hill that overlooks the city or a stylish skyscraper.

Primrose Hill, The Shard and Sky Garden are obvious favourites, but we've also included some lesser-known picks too. So whether you're sipping cocktails while looking out over St Paul's Cathedral or seeing the sights from Battersea Power Station, you can snap plenty of unbeatable photos.

Explore A Secret Garden

Wondering about the best things to do in London as a local? Then check out our guide to the prettiest and the best secret gardens across the city, promising gorgeous scenery and pretty picnic spots.

We've rounded up all our favourites, including St Dunstan In The East, Hampstead Hill Garden and Pergola, and Chelsea Physhic Gardens and much more.

Stop Off For A Sunday Roast

If you've been wondering how to live like a local in London, then why not try some of their very favourite spots for a Sunday roast? There's nothing more quintessentially British than this end-of-week tradition, and we've rounded up the very best of the best across the capital.

Whether you're in the mood for a tender chicken breast, a hearty cut of beef or a plant-based alternative, there's plenty to choose from in our city. From cosy pubs to high-end restaurants, check out our top picks.