London is one of the most frequently visited places in the world. Actually, it is the second most popular tourist destination with only Bangkok being ahead. Of course, many travelers come to see the rich heritage of the UK’s capital and visit internationally renowned museums, but the city can offer much more than this. Travelers, who have already seen the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, Tower, and even Abbey Road, may think that there are no reasons to plan a vacation to this city. Moreover, hotels in London are usually not cheap. However, the vibrant capital of the UK has so many interesting places to visit and activities to try.
Here are the top 5 unusual activities that tourists may want to try in London. Kayaking on the Thames is definitely not something that many tourists have ever tried. The river looks quite gloomy from above, but it also offers some of the most spectacular views of the capital. It is an opportunity to take interesting photographs of London from an unusual angle.
Horse racing has been extremely popular in the country for centuries. Places like Kempton Racecourse are great for everyone interested in the heritage of the UK. First opened in 1878, the racecourse has been a popular and crowded place since then. Boxing Day is, perhaps, the best time to visit the venue as it hosts the National Hunt Chase and King George VI Chase. Brits are widely known for their love of one more thing tea. To get the authentic taste of the drink and the city, consider visiting one of the oldest tea cafes in London the Twinings Café on Strand. Initially opened in 1706, the café got its signature look in 1837. A couple of hours spent in this café you will help you to understand London and its citizens better.
If you are open to everything new, London can offer some of the finest collections of street art. Expressive and original local street art is located where it should on the walls. For decades, best street artists have used walls of East London as a canvas for their works. Hackney and Shoreditch are the areas with the biggest concentration of these pieces of modern art.
Finally, many tourists forget to visit the Clink Prison Museum. The prison was open in the museum’s building from the 12th to the 18th centuries, so this old museum has many interesting stories to tell to its guests. Actors in old clothing tell visitors about the prison, lifestyle of those days, and share many interesting stories and legends. The museum is a wonderful destination on a rainy day and is a much better alternative than just spending time in your hotel in London.