We live in east London and one of our favourite things to do when the weather is being reasonable is to walk along Regent’s Canal.
The famous body of water winds its way through various boroughs of London, and we recently discovered some fab waterside dining, accessible from both Angel or Highbury tube/train stations.
Find out what we discovered…
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I enjoyed some time off from my day-job yesterday and remembered the merits of working for myself. That is, the freedom to wander and work from wherever I please. On this particular day, that took me on one of the best of London secret walks, along the Thames path around Bermondsey. Lovely!
Not that I didn’t miss my work friends, on the contrary, they don’t realize how much I value them. As any independent contractor or remote worker will verify, working on your own all the time can be a lonely business.
I’ve never had the chance to really indulge in this kind of down-time in London though. Usually, if I had time off it was because I was chasing employment or contracts, and I never allowed myself to chill out and explore!
But with a pay-cheque coming in, this time I was happy to indulge in the surprises of London’s beautiful old back streets without any worries. Speaking of which, as we bid farewell to 2023 — a year of coronation celebrations and Superloop introductions — we’re embracing what 2024 has in store for us in London.
Yesterday was a crisp winter/spring cross-over day, where the sun was shining brightly.
It was chilly but divine; ideal for taking a stroll along one of the best London secret walks.
Charles Dickens describes such a day perfectly in Great Expectations:
“It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade.”
What I wanted to share with you, is my favourite thing to do in London when I have a spare bit of sunlight – the Thames path walk around Bermondsey.
This section of the Thames path walk weaves its way around the back streets of zone one (the city), along the water and into central London where Tower Bridge dominates the landscape, as it has done for around 130 years.
Our friends Barry and Paulo introduced us to this vibrant area and secret London walk. Many of the great London secret walks can be had around Bermondsey, Southwark, from London Bridge, around Southbank, and across Tower Bridge to the extraordinary Tower of London or lovely St Katharine Docks.
I recently worked out that my favourite wander of them all is accessible via the London Overground (train) from where I jump on at Dalston Junction. It’s just a 12-minute ride up the line to Rotherhithe. From here, you are only a fifteen to twenty-minute walk away from Tower Bridge, but a world of magical experience from the tourist grind.
London Secret Walks, my route along the Thames path, begin at Rotherhithe. Head to the Overground (orange line) station of Rotherhithe in East London.
No, I still can’t pronounce it, but it’s now one of my free-time go-to destinations.
Turn left out of the station, and then left again immediately at the first street, Railway Avenue (next to the station). It’s just a short walk to the end of this street, where you’ll end up right on the Thames, and on the doorstep of the fascinating Brunel Museum.
Last summer when we passed by here, the tunnel was open underground, and we crawled down a man-hole to below the street where there was a fab light-show art installation being exhibited!
Walk along the riverside – just head towards the bridge! My Google map above might help you out (start at the blue star and follow the red markers into the city). Essentially you can explore what is called ‘The Thames Path’ which travels past some terrific old buildings. This includes what I understand is the oldest pub on the Thames, the Mayflower.
Apparently, to avoid paying mooring taxes, Captain Christopher Jones tied his ship up alongside this pub, and people boarded here before the Mayflower sailed to Plymouth to pick up the remaining passengers and then continued on its historic voyage to America in 1620.
There’s always been surprisingly few people down this part of the world when we’ve dropped by. We’ve taken many visiting friends on this walk because it’s historical and pretty.
Who would have thought you could experience such nostalgia in a peaceful setting in central London? This was the first chance I had to walk it on my own, and as haunting church bells rang out from St Mary’s, I couldn’t help but think about all the lives that had passed here before me.
Perhaps if I close my eyes, I could be transported to any space in time when this place was bustling with trade, markets, sailors, religious folk mingling on the church’s steps, and kids in newsboy caps and scruffy neck-scarfs running barefoot in the street. Just imagine what it might have been like…
Water laps against the old buildings, crows cry out, and seagulls squawk, but the sound of tourist chatter is nil. Every now and then the warehouse conversions open up to vast and amazing viewing spaces, like the spot just past a pub by the name of Angel, which is opposite ruins of King Edward’s manor.
Here you can gaze up and down the Thames, with all of London’s famous landmarks in sight. It’s breath-taking whether the sun is out or not (though it can be windy and a bit chilly on a cloudy day).
You can’t really get lost at this point, because while there’s construction going on, you just need to walk adjacent to the water. Follow the Thames Path signs towards Butlers Wharf; there’s an underpass where eventually you will find more people congregating around Tower Bridge.
I like to stop and people-watch from a perch at All Bar One (free WiFi and yummy tapas here too). But you can easily continue meandering along to the bridge and then across towards the Tower of London.
The experience is ‘secret London’ at its best, and I feel so privileged and grateful to have the chance to get to know this energising old city intimately.
If you want to take a look at this area but would prefer to hang out in a quieter spot rather than walking towards the city, we discovered a lovely large and comfortable pub that’s about a five-minute walk from Rotherhithe station. Turn left and go directly down Salter Road until you come to the Thameside YHA.
Across the road from there, positioned on a nice patch of land by the water is The Salt Quay, a good place to eat, chat, blog and soak up some atmosphere. We had a good old gossip with Jordan Lea and Rachael at this very place last summer.
As we step into 2024, it’s exhilarating to see new trends and opportunities for walking enthusiasts in London. Embrace the London secret walks and discover even more about this wonderful city.
This spring, don’t miss the Guide Dogs sculpture trail in Canary Wharf, featuring stunning guide dog sculptures by various artists. It’s a fantastic way to explore London’s art scene while enjoying a leisurely walk.
For those looking for a more ambitious challenge, why not aim to walk 2024km this year? It’s a great way to stay fit, explore new areas, and contribute positively to our environment.
Take the time to appreciate and note the beauty of nature on your walks. It’s a wonderful way to enhance your wellbeing and connect with the environment.
Customise your walking experience with a challenge that suits your style. Dive into the world of London Walks by choosing a step, distance, or time-based challenge.
This is your opportunity to uncover the diverse array of Hidden London tours. Make 2024 a year to walk more and discover the secret corners and treasures of London. Every step you take is a chance to experience something new and extraordinary in the city’s unique and lesser-known paths.
In 2024, London continues to evolve, offering an array of experiences that enrich our walks. The city’s dynamic changes not only reflect its history but also its commitment to a sustainable and inclusive future. Each step along these London secret walks is a journey through time and imagination.
For those who intertwine their walks with a touch of educational enrichment, the upcoming Energy Revolution Gallery at the Science Museum is a must-visit. This space, dedicated to the climate crisis, offers insights into how we can pivot towards greener energy sources. It’s an inspiring addition for anyone interested in environmental sustainability and the future of our planet.
Another exciting event in 2024 is the British Science Festival, returning to London after over two decades. This festival, hosted by the University of East London, is an excellent opportunity for science lovers to engage with innovative ideas and discoveries. It’s a perfect blend of education and leisure for those who love to combine their intellectual interests with their walking adventures.
In 2024, let’s walk not just for the sake of exploration but for the stories we will tell, the people we will meet, and the memories we will cherish. London is a city of endless surprises, and each walk is an opportunity to uncover something new.
So, lace up your walking shoes, step out the door, and let’s make 2024 a year of unforgettable walks and discoveries.
Let’s build a community of walkers who not only seek the beauty of London secret walks but also engage actively with the city’s evolving narrative. Your stories and insights are what make this journey so enriching for all of us.
Do you have a favourite walk in London? Please do share in the comments so we and other readers can check it out! Your insights always add such richness to our community’s experience.
It seems no matter where you look in London a crane isn’t too far from sight. Construction is cranking at a frenetic pace, with new skyscrapers and tower blocks quickly altering the cityscape. Contemporary architecture boasting eccentric names means unique structures like the Shard, ‘Gherkin’ and ‘Walkie Talkie’ now rub shoulders with older smaller cousins like St Paul’s Cathedral, Monument and London Eye.
There is one thing most of these structures have in common – they’re expensive if you want to enjoy their views! So, here we have presented some of our fave alternatives that are free or inexpensive to enter.
The Walkie-Talkie is one of our ultimate go-to destinations when family or friends arrive in London. The viewing platform is called the Sky Garden and it’s set over three storeys of elegantly landscaped public gardens.
As you exit the lift you’re greeted by a spacious and airy cafe/bar which connects seamlessly to the outside viewing platform. The Sky Garden boasts wonderful uninterrupted views across London, plus three restaurants if you fancy a meal. Entry is free BUT you need to book your place in advance.
Nearest tubes to the Sky Garden: Monument, Bank, Tower Hill, Cannon Street
The Great Fire of 1666 blazed for three days and destroyed much of medieval London. To commemorate this significant tragedy, Sir Christopher Wren designed the world’s tallest stone column, the Monument.
Monument is 202ft (61.5m) high and is situated 202ft away from the house of Thomas Farynor, who was the king’s baker in Pudding Lane (where the fire started). Climbing the 311 steps won’t you leave breathless but it will surprise with great views of the ‘Cheese Grater’ (122 Leadenhall Street) and Tower Bridge.
Find out more about our visit to the Monument
Nearest tube: Monument
Nearest tube: Cutty Sark or Greenwich (or catch a Thames ferry)
We first discovered the lovely view from Tate’s restaurant when our friend, Nicole, invited us up there for a catch-up drink when we were visiting London as tourists in 2009. We now take our own guests here!
Aside from housing an amazing art collection dating back to the 16th Century, Tate’s positioned on the Thames, and you can make your way to the cafe/bar for free to check out the amazing river view, Millennium Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral. It’s worth splashing out on a beer or glass of bubbles (like Sarah does) when you’re visiting, and head up at nightfall to see the city sparkle. Entry is free (although special exhibits do have a separate charge).
Nearest tube: London Bridge, Blackfriars, St Pauls, Southwark
If you don’t mind being suspended by a thin cable 90m (300ft) above the River Thames, then the Emirates cable car is a truly memorable experience.
The journey between the Greenwich Peninsula and Royal Dock lasts an unforgettable ten minutes and provides a spectacular setting against the glass and steel of London’s skyscrapers. From the comfort of your cabin, you’re presented with bird’s eye views of the O2 arena, Canary Wharf, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the Thames Barrier. Use your Oyster Card (London transport card) and receive a 25% discount.
Nearest tube: there are several options, check the routes here
Heron Tower (officially 110 Bishopsgate) is a commercial skyscraper near Liverpool Street station in the city and is home to two of London’s finest restaurants, the acclaimed Sushi Samba and the Duck and Waffle.
Sarah and I have indulged in many a cocktail at Sushi Samba while enjoying the 360-degree views of the city. You can almost touch my favourite building, the ‘Gherkin’. The elevator ride to the top is both terrifying and exciting as it shoots up the side of the building like a bullet train. Entry is free.
Nearest tube: Liverpool Street
Have other tips or a comment to share on the best London views? Drop us a line below…
I’ve been lucky enough to live in this great city and have experienced many of London’s best views over the past few years.
But I have never experienced the Monument, Sir Christopher Wren’s 202 feet (61 m) stone column built to commemorate one of the most famous events in the city’s history, the Great Fire of 1666.
The world’s tallest stone column just outside Monument tube station pays homage to the Great Fire and the rebuilding of the city. Apparently if you lay the column on its side, it measures the exact distance between it and the house of Thomas Farynor, the king’s baker in Pudding Lane where the fire started at 2am on Sunday 2 September.
Before the fire was finally extinguished it destroyed 13,000 houses and 90 churches; including part of Saint Paul’s Cathedral.
Unlike many attractions in London where you have to line up in long queues regardless of the weather, I only had to wait six minutes for entry to the Monument. Better than what I anticipate the wait at the London Eye is!
Entry into the Monument is only £4 for adults (as at February 2016) compared with the Shard (over £25) and London Eye (over £20).
If you’re an active person you’ll love the 311 step climb to the top. It’s a great way for toning your bottom and legs while experiencing London’s amazing skyline.
That said, don’t worry if this sounds daunting, it’s actually a pretty easy climb, the average person taking around four minutes to make it up to the top (not counting if you have to wait for children loitering in the stairwell along the way).
As you exit the stairs onto a small ledge you’re met by a simple wire fence separating you from the 166 drop to the ground below and magnificent 360 panoramic views of the London skyline. The Monument offers wonderful views of the Shard (hard to miss), Tower Bridge, Saint Paul’s Cathedral, Gherkin (30 St Mary Axe), Leadenhall Building (affectionately known as the Cheese Grater) and Canary Wharf in the distance.
There’s plenty more to do in this part of London too. Monument is a very short stroll from a brilliant free attraction, the London sky garden, also featuring some of London’s best views.
If you’re a foodie eating in London, you’d be mistaken to think there’s only over-cooked food and fish and chips. Far from your typical pub fare, London offers so much for the discerning foodie, especially when you know where to look.
Located in London’s Victoria and serving some of the city’s finest Italian fare, diners at TOZI will find something so much more than the expected. TOZI specialises in Venetian cicchetti, or smaller sized plates designed to share as well as a selection of wood fired pizzas. Dishes at TOZI are inspired by the casual dining of the Veneto regions with a strong emphasis on seasonal and quality ingredients, sourced where possible from the best Italian producers.
Italian born, head chef Maurillo has years of experience running Italian restaurants in some of the city’s most exclusive private member clubs including Shoreditch House, and the menu reflects exactly the fine dining calibre you’d expect.
Paired with an Italian wine list and a sophisticated classic Italian (of course) cocktail menu, don’t be surprised if you find yourself already planning your return. And if you’re the type to get a bit of ‘menu paralysis’ whereby you’re unable to order when there’s just too amazing choices, you can leave the ordering in the very capable hands of the wait staff at TOZI and you won’t be disappointed.
Meals are generously portioned, deliciously fresh and cooked to perfection. And while the meals are certainly a win, it’s the friendly service that adds so much more to the experience.
The bar menu includes a signature Spritz, home-made barrel-aged Negroni and Amaro TOZI, served straight from the barrel.
Truly one of the most fun places for eating in London – street food at the Brick Lane Food markets!
Located a short walk from East Aldgate and Shoreditch stations, you’ll find absolutely every cuisine you could possibly imagine (and many you didn’t even know existed!) here.
Just walking into the food market area, your senses will certainly be overcome with the buzzing atmosphere of authentic cuisines served up with pride. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon. Just make sure to arrive hungry!
And if street food isn’t your thing, while you’re in the Brick Lane market area, you can visit boutique food shops, bars, restaurants, cafes as well as a cereal bar called Cereal Killer (yes they serve boxed cereal only and yes people queue to eat it). There’s truly something for everyone here.
While you walk off those calories, enjoy the art, craft and second-hand markets that spill out over several streets and include hundreds stalls selling clothing, artwork, handmade items, vintage items and antiques, collectibles, you name it. It’s essentially more shopping than you’d likely be able to do in a day.
It’s the quintessential London experience to enjoy an afternoon or high tea and Scoff & Banter, located just below The Radisson Blu Edwardian, Bloomsbury Street Hotel in Covent Garden is just the place to do it.
Located a short stroll from many of the city’s theatres such as the popular Cambridge Theatre, it’s a great spot to enjoy a matinee and high-tea experience. Scoff & Banter offers afternoon tea experiences that are often themed to accompany the performance taking place at the theatre.
The afternoon experience offers a menu both adults and children will adore with the traditional tea sandwiches, scones, jam and cream and decadent sweets.
After tea, enjoy a bit of retail therapy in the popular Seven Dials shopping district loaded with a heavy mixture of international brands as well as smaller boutiques.
No matter your preference in dining styles, spending just a few days in London will still allow you to experience a whole world of delicious dining experiences.
About the author
Gwen O’Toole is an accomplished writer focussing on travel, events management and food and wine. She also published a fiction novel while spending the past eight years as a magazine editor and travelling the globe before launching The Ideas Library, a creative services and event management company. She is regularly featured in a variety of travel and leisure publications and blogs.
Welcome! We are Sarah + Cooper, Aussie expats living in the UK with our Westie dog, London. We like to inspire on how to travel for longer and to live and work from anywhere. Our most popular content here is about seeing the world with your pet, remote working & digital nomadism, and house + pet sitting. Create a global life of your dreams at any age! Subscribe to find out more :)