London landmark domino effect of iconic telephone boxes

7 Unusual London Attractions

A city that's filled with culture and history that stretches back to Roman times. London is one of the most visited cities in the world. From Buckingham Palace to the Tower of London and Big Ben, this city has famous landmarks aplenty. But, have you ever wondered what else might be hiding within this ancient city's walls? Which one of London's attraction are more unusual, strange, and unique? Check out these 7 special attractions to add to your must-see list! 

1. Highgate Cemetery

Highgate cemetery with tombstones engulfed by a forest
Known as one of London's creepiest cemeteries. It was once a site known for battling magicians and stake-carrying vampire hunters. It's also famous for being the 'fashionable' place for burials for over 170,000 Londoners. To add to the creepy and cool vibe, the cemetery's monuments are now partially engulfed by a forest slowly growing around them.

2. Platform 9 and 3/4 

Kings Cross Station platform 9 3/4 with travel cart

All aboard the Hogwarts Express, waiting for you at Platform 9 & 3/4! For Harry Potter fans, Kings Cross Station is a must-visit location! The station was used as a shooting location for the Harry films and became a permanent ode to the fantasy classic in 2012. As a London landmark, make sure you have plenty of time blocked to visit the magical trolley spot and the Harry Potter Shop!

3. The Ruins of St. Dunstan-in-the-East

Ruins of St. Dunstan-in-the-East building with greenery growing

Located between the Tower of London and the London Bridge, the original English parish church of St. Dunstan-in-the-East was built during Norman times. It's had a rough time since, destroyed not once, but twice! The Great Fire of London in 1666 caused damage that has since been fixed, but the church was completely devastated during the London Blitz during World War Two. Although the church was left in ruins, the beauty left behind is worth a visit (and photo)!

4. London's Original and All-Inspiring Coffee House 

First coffee shop sign in London at Jamaica wine house

Photo provided by Flickr

How about visiting the first copy shop... ever? The first coffee shop in London was opened in 1652! It was opened on St. Michael's Alley and was more of a wooden coffee shack than the cafes we're used to today. There doesn’t seem to be much information on how this coffee shack was officially established, but it's a hidden gem and well worth a visit for the bragging rights alone. Now known as the Jamaica Wine House, you'll find this sign in the alley! 

5. Camera Museum 

Camera museum with cameras displayed on shelves
Photo provided by Camera Museum 

Looking for photographic history? This museum is the perfect spot, tucked away below an adorable café. The Camera Museum started after one of the café owners decided to open a small camera shop in the same space. The rooms showcase different types of cameras, some of which you can pick up and hold. Don’t drop them though, as some of the older cameras in the collection date back to the 1800s! 

6. Love Locks of East London

Londons love locks with padlocks on chain link fence
Photo provided by Flickr

You've probably seen other lock bridges and locations around the world, like the famous bridge in Paris. In this spot in London, lovers show off their unbreakable bond by writing their names on a lock and securing it onto a simple wire fence! In 2012, the padlocks started to appear on the wire fence across from the train station in East London. These 'love locks' continue to multiply so don't forget to add your mark to this growing collection.

7. Out of Order 

Out of order telephone booth landmark in Kingston
Photo provided by Flickr
This work of art by David Mach is a domino effect of the iconic telephone boxes! Installed back in 1989, it is now one of Kingston's most famous landmarks, amusing tourists and locals alike. 'Out of Order' was officially restored on its 30th anniversary when it was repainted and refurbished as a London attraction. 

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