5 Activities that Only London can offer
Get off the tourist trail and see a different side to London. When visiting this foggy city, there are certain things you just have to do: Big Ben, the London eye, and the guards at Birmingham palace; but don't let all the well-known attractions eat up your itinerary. London has some very fun and quirky things to explore off the tourist trail!
1. Freud Museum London
This is a must-see for any psychology lover or just to see where this iconic man lived and worked and of course his famed psychotherapy couch (no you can't sit on it, unfortunately.)
There are numerous exhibitions and events happening, making this quite a lively house.
On the first Sunday of each month they give a guided tour of the house which is helpful because there is just so much to see- admittedly the man was a bit of a hoarder!
I caught the last day of an exhibition called, Solitary Pleasures; which aimed to, "interrogate and investigate," the eroticism, desire, and gratification associated with masturbation.
Check out what's on during your visit: https://www.freud.org.uk/whats-on/
Pro-Tip: It's also worth remembering if you keep your receipt you can re-use your ticket for another entry for up to a year!
2. Hampstead Heath
Take a respite from the hustle and bustle of London for a dip in the Hampstead Heath swimming ponds!
Stunning views of the city and private swimming ponds, what more could you want during the warm summer days? The ponds are accessible by donation, they have Women's and Men's only and a mixed pond. Swimming suits are optional and there are changing rooms. To get there you need to walk through Hampstead Heath park (you will see many signs for the ponds along the trails). The views along the way are stunning and while it feels like you are out in the countryside, you're really smack-dab in the middle of the city! During the summertime it's like stepping into a Renaissance painting. There are many lovely spots to sit around reading a book or have a picnic and watch the exotic looking ducks waddle around before you take a dip! Click the link below for all the details and yes- just remember no photos allowed inside the swimming area.
Find out more here: www.hampsteadheath.net/swimming-ponds
3. The Cartoon Museum
If you are a comics and cartoon fan or just want to escape the gloomy London weather don't miss this quirky museum devoted to history and exemplars of the cartoon form. Here you can see the historical evolution of British cartoons as well as a rotating schedule of exhibitions and events. Plus there are plenty of photo-ops and great selfie spots!
Find out more here: www.cartoonmuseum.org
4. London Sky Garden
This is a must-see in London, preferably during the day and night. Two bars and two restaurants sit atop this 38-story building, providing arguably the best view of this lovely city. Best of all, entry is free! I didn't eat there but the cocktails were nice and didn't break my budget. 10/10 would recommend. It would also be a great stop during the day for a coffee and a beautiful view.
Find out more here: https://skygarden.london/
5. Harry Potter cocktail making!
Welcome to Hogwarts for Cocktail- making! This one is not for the muggles (or those under UK legal drinking age of 18)! If you have ever wanted to try your hand at making potions, a visit to The Cauldron is a must on your trip to London. Don your Wizard's robe and let your wand choose you- you're going to need it.
They also offer Wizard Afternoon Tea and Wand Making! I visited the location in East London but there is also a location in Soho.
Find out more here: https://thecauldron.io/london
6. Hula Beauty Hackney
Spend the day lay'd up and pampered at this tiki-themed retro beauty spa! They offer services you won't find at any ordinary salon like Vintage 1950's Hair & Make Up, Mermaid Glitter Spray tan, and an application and liner lesson so you can re-create your vintage look whenever you want.
Find out more here: https://hulabeautyhackney.com/
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