London’s most Instagrammable hidden spots
Exploring London beyond the usual landmarks has led me to some of the most stunning and unexpected photo spots. While Big Ben and the London Eye dominate social media feeds, some of the most Instagrammable places in London are the ones that don’t make it onto every tourist map.
Sure, everyone knows about Big Ben and the London Tower, but when I visit London, I look for lesser-known spots. These are the undiscovered attractions or parts of the city that tourists don’t often get to see.
Kynance Mews
Once a row of 19th-century stables, Kynance Mews now is a hidden retreat in South Kensington. Walking along its cobbled lane, the pastel-hued houses and wisteria-covered doorways create a charming setting. Designed by Thomas Cundy III, the three Grade II-listed arches add a sense of history to the street.
Sicilian Avenue
Walking down Sicilian Avenue in Holborn gives the sense of stepping into a different part of Europe. Built in 1910, this pedestrian street showcases a blend of Edwardian elegance and Mediterranean glamour. White marble colonnades frame the walkway, leading past boutique shops and cafés. The Italian-inspired design, along with its quiet, refined atmosphere, gives the space a lasting elegance.
Camley Street Natural Park
Nestled along Regent’s Canal in King’s Cross, this two-acre oasis is a striking contrast to its urban surroundings. With wetlands, woodlands and over 300 plant species, Camley Street Natural Park is a haven for birds, butterflies, and amphibians. A visitor and learning center adds an educational element, making it both a peaceful retreat and a hub for environmental awareness.
Phoenix Garden
Once a car park, Phoenix Garden in St. Giles is a community-managed space that has flourished since its creation in 1984. The garden is filled with wildlife-friendly plants and sustainable landscaping, making it a welcoming habitat for birds and pollinators. Rustic wooden benches are scattered among wildflowers, offering a peaceful place to pause.
Claremont Square
Tucked away in Islington, Claremont Square has that quiet charm that immediately stood out. The Georgian townhouses, built between 1821 and 1828, are still occupied, showcasing London’s architectural heritage. Beneath the square lies a covered reservoir, which once supplied water to the city. This reservoir was covered and turfed in 1852 following the Metropolis Water Act, adding a layer of history to the area. Unlike the busier parts of Islington, Claremont Square remains tucked away, offering a rare sense of stillness.
Brydges Place
With walls that close in as you walk through, Brydges Place measures just 15 inches wide at its narrowest point, and it’s often cited as the narrowest alley in London. Dating back to the 17th century, this passage connects St. Martin’s Lane with Bedfordbury, and its towering brick walls create an almost cinematic atmosphere. The contrast between shadow and light makes it an intriguing spot for urban photography, revealing a side of London many pass by without noticing.
Red Telephone Box with Big Ben backdrop
Standing at the intersection of Great George Street and Parliament Square, I stopped at the classic red telephone box. The contrast against the towering Big Ben makes for a striking photo, and I’m not the only one who thinks so. There’s usually a queue of visitors waiting for their turn. The mix of heritage and iconic city scenery makes this a spot worth stopping for.
Framing London through my lens
Exploring London with my camera has shown me that the city’s most captivating sights aren’t always in the guidebooks. These tucked-away spots reveal a more personal, unfiltered side of London. Next time you visit, take a detour because you never know what stunning, photo-worthy moment you’ll uncover.
A luxury travel, food and adventure journalist with a passport full of stories from over 46 countries, Mandy specializes in uncovering unforgettable experiences across the globe. With a deep love for the Far East and a diver’s eye for hidden worlds, she brings readers along on immersive journeys that blend indulgence with discovery, and she shares it all on Ticket to Wanderland.
