Hidden Gems • 6 hours 5.0 (6)

East London's Hidden Gems: A Day of Discovery

Dive into the vibrant spirit of London and uncover treasures that only a local can show you on this unforgettable East London adventure.

Sky Garden offers some of the best panoramic views of London and it's free! But do make sure to book well in advance as tickets book out quickly

What makes this experience special

Key highlights

  • Start your London adventure with a refreshing drink at The Dickens Inn, a charming 18th-century pub in St. Katharine Docks.
  • Discover a hidden oasis at St. Dunstan in the East. This serene public garden is perfect for photography or a quiet moment of reflection.
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Leadenhall Market - it's a delight for the senses. Then, marvel at the grandeur of The Royal Exchange while admiring its architectural beauty.
  • Step into the whimsical world of The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town, a hidden speakeasy with a secret door (your host will show you where it is).
  • Explore the eclectic Spitalfields Market and vibrant Brick Lane. Indulge in some retail therapy and culinary treats as you soak up the lively atmosphere.
  • Visit the quirky Hoxton Street Monster Supplies. It's sure to spark your imagination and bring out your inner child.
  • Stroll through Camden Passage in Islington, a charming pedestrian street known for its antique shops and markets. After, immerse yourself in contemporary photography at The Photographers' Gallery.
  • Wander through the picturesque St Luke's Mews, with its colorful houses creating a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.
  • End your London adventure at The Churchill Arms, an iconic pub adorned with flowers. It's the perfect place to relax, enjoy a drink, and reflect on your day of discoveries.

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

6 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested

What’s included

Per person
Hosted experience lasting up to 6 hours.
Private and tailored to your group only
Immersive walking experience between stops
Hotel meet-up (available on request for central locations)

What’s not included

Food and drinks
Tickets to any attractions
Transportation costs
Gratuities (optional)

Meeting point

The Dickens Inn, Marble Quay, St Katharine's Way, London E1W 1UH

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

  • We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
  • Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

What you’ll do

Gear up for a thrilling day out in London, where every turn brings something new and exciting! Your local host is your personal gateway to the city's best-kept secrets and most iconic landmarks, ensuring you see London like never before.

First stop: The Dickens Inn, a charming 18th-century pub in St. Katharine Docks. Picture yourself sipping a refreshing drink while watching the boats bob gently in the marina. It's the perfect way to kick off your adventure, soaking in the serene vibes before diving into the city's bustling heart.

A quick ten-minute walk takes you past the mighty Tower of London and the iconic Tower Bridge. Feel the history as you stroll by these towering giants before reaching your next gem: St. Dunstan in the East. This hidden oasis is a peaceful garden nestled within the ruins of a former church. It's an Instagrammer's dream, with lush greenery winding through ancient stone walls – a slice of tranquility in the city's midst.

Next, head to the enchanting Leadenhall Market. With its Victorian architecture and vibrant atmosphere, it's like stepping into another era. Browse the quirky shops, soak up the historic ambiance, and maybe even spot a familiar scene from the Harry Potter films!

Then, it's off to The Royal Exchange. This grand old building now hosts luxury shops and swanky eateries, but its majestic architecture still whispers tales of London's illustrious past. As you wander through, imagine the bustling trade that once filled these halls, and take a moment to admire its stunning design.

Ready for something completely different? Enter The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town – if you can find it! This secret speakeasy is tucked behind a fridge door in The Breakfast Club. Sip on a quirky cocktail in this hidden gem and revel in the novelty of such a unique setting.

Spitalfields Market and Brick Lane are next on the list, a dynamic duo of eclectic shops, vibrant street art, and mouth-watering food stalls. From vintage treasures to artisanal treats, this area is a sensory delight. Grab a bite, snap some photos of the fantastic street art, and dive into the lively market scene.

The fun continues at Hoxton Street Monster Supplies. This shop is a playful nod to the spooky and bizarre, selling everything from cubed earwax to tins of fear. It's a whimsical wonderland that's sure to spark your imagination.

Take the Overground to Highbury & Islington and stroll to Camden Passage. This pedestrian street is brimming with antique shops and markets. It's like a treasure hunt, with each shop offering unique finds—perfect for a leisurely browse.

Next, immerse yourself in the world of contemporary photography at The Photographers' Gallery. A quick visit here will give you a fresh perspective on art and culture, showcasing some of the most exciting works in modern photography.

Then, wander through the picture-perfect St Luke's Mews. These colorful houses look straight out of a fairytale and are an ideal backdrop for some memorable snapshots. It's a quiet, charming spot that feels worlds away from the city's hustle and bustle.

Wrap up your epic day at The Churchill Arms. This iconic pub, covered in flowers and brimming with character, is the perfect place to relax. Enjoy a drink and maybe some delicious Thai food while soaking in the cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

With your local host leading the way, you'll uncover London's hidden corners and famous sights, all tailored to your interests. This isn't just a day out; it's an unforgettable adventure through one of the world's most exciting cities!

This product has been designed to deliver the very best experience. After purchase guests have the opportunity to customize their experience to their specific tastes. Customization options depend on time, availability and other logistic considerations.

1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

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What travelers think of this experience

Jennifer, Mar 2025

We loved our guide and learned so much!

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Kathryn Jacqueline, Feb 2025

She thoughtfully planned out the tour for me based on what I was interested in. She was very knowledgable about the areas we went to and made recommendations for other places to go after my tour and for future trips. The tea and scones we had were also delicious! I will definitely recommend this to anyone I know who is traveling to London :)

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Andy, Feb 2025

It was more like being with a friend than a guide. He provided a lot of information and we joked back and forth.

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Binny, Feb 2025

Nice trip. Local markets were explored with unique food tastings. Infact it was not tasting and we were full by the tour ended

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Andrew, Jan 2025

We had a long layover in London and decided to take a tour while we waiting for our connecting flight. Our tour guide was super flexible (we ran into some flight delays) and was able to adjust the tour to accommodate our travel requirements for the day. From the Tower of London to Buckingham Palace and Big Ben we got all the highlights in just over 4 hours. It was the perfect way to experience London when you have limited time, or get to know the city at the beginning of a trip.

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Brent, Jan 2025

Fun time in and around the gay neighborhood. Highly recommend. Sandro was friendly and knowledgeable. I think I made a friend!

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