Discover the Capital off the beaten guidebook tracks with these alternative London attractions
Words Helen Brown
Go on a Secret Adventure
For an unusual and off grid adventure look no further than Secret Adventures. These excursions are intended to generate a sense of exploration and wonder. From fire, to water; activities in the past have included a night kayak under Tower Bridge, Paddle Boarding in Central London and an outdoor swim under the full-moon, concluded with campfire marshmallow toasting. More information here.
Cinema at The Shard
The tip of the Shard is about the become the world’s highest cinema, courtesy of the Extraordinary Travelling Film Show. Far from the standard film affair, you’ll be met with a welcome glass of Taittinger champagne and a panoramic, 360 degree view of London at night from a knee-knocking 308.5 metre high vantage point. Take your seat to find complimentary popcorn and chocolate from Artisan du Chocolat, before enjoying a screening of Some Like It Hot, Dirty Dancing, or Hitchcock’s Vertigo, set against a backdrop of the City stretching away in all directions. More information here.
Alternative London Walking Tour
The Alternative London Walking Tour is a great way to discover East London’s incredible creativity and street art whilst taking in important historical and cultural sights. The takes in a plethora of amazing non-commissioned artworks as well as divulging unprecedented insight into the East End. The only London tour company to employ well known street artists and those involved in the creative community as guides so you are sure to be in knowledgeable hands. More information here.
Afternoon Tea with a Beefy Twist at BRGR.CO
Indulge in something new with BRGR.CO’s unique take on the traditional afternoon tea. You’ll be served a mouth-watering selection of mini burgers, desserts and iced tea, as well as a glass of Prosecco each. A delicious American take on the quintessentially English classic and an undoubtable gastronomic delight. Book here.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
This beautiful and traditional Hindu temple, more commonly known as ‘Neasden Temple’, is a sanctuary of vibrant Hindu worship, learning and community service. Take a tour to discover the building’s exquisite architecture, which is built from Bulgarian limestone and Italian Carrara marble. Stones were shipped to India where they were hand-carved and then shipped to London to be assembled like a giant jigsaw puzzle. Complete your visit with a meal at the Shayona restaurant. With traditional Indian décor and mouth-watering vegetarian cuisine, it is the perfect way to experience some authentic tastes of India.More information here.
Paint Jam
This innovative art company shows and sells art work and prints, as well as running inspiring art workshops across the City. Heralded as ‘the studio for everyone,’ Paint Jam often host social painting events in a pop-up art studio, complete with bar and DJ to get those creative juices flowing. The next Paint Jam Night will follow a Pop Art theme. Enjoy a prosecco reception on arrival, an intro into art exercises on paper, then move onto your own canvas inspired by Andy Warhol, Keith Haring and most of all Roy Lichenstein’s iconic style. Book here.
