There are tons of interesting and lesser-known facts about London that most people overlook, even as they wander through the city’s iconic spots. These fascinating tidbits are often hiding in plain sight, waiting to be discovered once you look a little deeper. London’s diversity and rich history contribute to an array of surprising facts that might astonish even the residents of this vibrant city.
There are so many things I wish I had known before moving to London, and I’m excited to share these with you, including some secret spots and unique quirks that make London such an exciting place to explore.
Take a peek at some true hidden gems and quirky London facts that I hope will intrigue you during your visit.
Interestingly, the Scotch egg isn’t from Scotland as many believe. Fortnum & Mason claim they invented it nearly three centuries ago. This 18th-century creation has become a picnic favorite, especially when the eggs are cooked just right. You can still enjoy this delightful treat in their food section.
Many visitors to St. Bartholomew The Great are unaware of why it’s called the ‘weeping church.’ It wasn’t until attending a friend’s wedding there that I discovered this. When it’s cold and damp, the stones become porous, causing the walls to appear wet unless the church is kept warm and dry. There’s even an inscription inside that reads, “unsluice your briny floods.” It’s truly one of the city’s hidden treasures.
Covent Garden is a charming part of London with beautiful streets, a bustling market, and the stunning Royal Opera House. As you wander around, look out for the quirky ears and noses attached to the walls, seemingly watching and smelling everything! If you can’t find them, just enjoy a glass of bubbly and relax.
In the 17th century, the plague devastated London, wiping out nearly a third of the population. Many small parks and green spaces were transformed into mass graves, known as plague pits. Some notable ones include Golden Square Park in Soho, Green Park, Knightsbridge Green, and near Elephant and Castle. It’s a hidden aspect of London’s history that many are unaware of.
Borough Market has become one of London’s favorite food destinations, brimming with delicious options. Just a short walk away, you’ll find an old pub once owned by the Harvard family, who founded Harvard University. Located at 103 Borough High Street, this tavern was once bustling but the family eventually chose academia over alcohol.
Recently opened to the public, the mail train tunnels used for transporting letters and packages are now an attraction where you can ride the train. These tunnels are among the city’s newly revealed secrets.
Nearby, the Watchhouse Coffee Shop on Bermondsey Street once served as a lookout for Victorian police monitoring grave robbers. It stands on a historic site with a rich, eerie history. They make excellent coffee and cakes, making it a favorite spot in London filled with hidden stories.
A short 15-minute walk from the London Eye, you’ll find the Imperial War Museum of London. It is free to enter, and in its gardens, you can see sections of the original Berlin Wall, a tangible piece of history.
While it might not seem like it, Westminster Abbey’s College Garden, known for its peace and seclusion, is one of the oldest gardens in the UK, connected to nearly a millennium of history.
Remarkably, London is home to the only surviving residence of Benjamin Franklin in the world, located at 36 Craven Street. This is where Franklin lived just before the American Revolution, and it’s one of those intriguing London facts many people are unaware of.