Six Alternative Visitor Attractions in London
We all know that London has some of the world’s most popular tourist attractions. We’ve all visited or seen Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament and even more recent additions such as The Shard. As good as it is to visit these attractions it’s always interesting to check out some of the less obvious attractions that a city like London has to offer. See our guide to getting about London. The following are a few of these less known, yet extremely well worth visiting attractions.
1) The smallest police station in London can be found in Trafalgar square. Dwarfed by the more obvious tourist attractions this is a very worthwhile attraction to seek out. This station was built to monitor the many protests which have always taken place on this site. Check out how small this station really is and imagine being stationed there!
2) Have you ever arrived at Strand Station(referred to as Aldwych station)? I thought not because this station is no longer in use. Take a tour, organised by London Transport Museum, and take a step back in time. This little piece of history is definitely worth the effort. During the war this station was used to protect some of the most treasured artwork from nearby museums and galleries.
More things to see in London
3) The Whitechapel Bell Foundry. This foundry is to be found in the Whitechapel area of London. It’s interesting as it’s where the bell in Big Ben was made and also where the Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American Independence was made. Get yourself a souvenir bell while you are there. It’ll probably be your most interesting purchase from your visit. Another interesting thing is that you will be getting a functioning bell from what is the oldest manufacturing company in not only London but the whole country.
4) Isabella Plantation Richmond Park in South West London is worth a visit. Take in the bars and eateries of Richmond after a day exploring the fantastic Royal Park. Within the park visit the Isabella Plantation and head for King Henry’s Mound. From here you get a great view towards London where you can clearly see sights such as St Paul’s Cathedral.
5) The Bells of St. Sepulchre. This bell does not have a pleasant history. It was used for hundreds of years to mark the execution of offenders at Newgate prison. The bell is alternatively known as the Newgate execution bell and is kept in a glass case in the nave of St Sepulchre-without-Newgate church. This artefact takes us back to a time where public executions were common, and some may say popular, and quite often attracted large crowds. Holborn Viaduct is where you’ll find this.
6) Number 10 Adam Street. This is a must visit location because it looks exactly like 10 Downing Street. As you’ll probably know the closest you’ll get to the real number 10 is the huge security gate at the end of the street. Absolutely no chance of a photo opportunity. Get to Adam Street and get a picture of you arriving for an audience with the Prime Minister.
Check out this guide to the London Pubs