Design Museum London
Form a straight line
Beautiful design is not just about making things pretty; it's about being innovative, mindful of resources and user-focused. These rules are not just focused on a single art form - what's true in website design is also true in sculpture. What I really enjoy about the Design Museum is that it invites visitors to focus on all forms of the design process, not just the end. You're not just a spectator at a product launch; you're involved at every step of the creative process.
The exhibitions at the Design Museum are an eclectic mix - one visit you may see the best of women's fashion, the next time you may be introduced to the details of architecture in Asia. Often (but not always) you may get to interact with the displays, especially if the designers are keen to show you how user-friendly their products are.
After leaving the museum, it will be difficult to look at any building, gadget or dress the same way again. The Museum recently moved to west London (conveniently located near Holland Park). As if you needed another reason to visit!
About this spot
Explore London like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our London guide.
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in London
Fitzrovia Chapel
An architectural masterpiece
Aside from its compelling history, what really sets Fitzrovia Chapel apart is its extraordinary gold mosaic ceiling. So don't forget to look up!
By
Madeline
Gowers
London Review Bookshop
A must for book lovers
Twice a week, all the tables are pushed to one side, and the bookshop is transformed into an intimate venue for author talks, film screenings and debates.
By
Madeline
Gowers
Strawberry Hill House
London’s Gothic castle
Walpole spent most of his life transforming the building into his own ‘little Gothic castle’, with battlements, arched doorways and stained glass windows.
By
Madeline
Gowers
Book 28 Library
A tiny queer utopia
What really sets Book 28 apart, is their commitment to sourcing intersectional literature that would be unlikely to appear in your average public library.
By
Madeline
Gowers
Woburn Walk
A taste of Regency London
Designed in 1822 by Thomas Cubitt (the architect behind large parts of Belgravia & Pimlico), Woburn Walk retains many of its original Georgian shopfronts.
By
Madeline
Gowers
Alba Caffè
A taste of the Mediterranean
Savour your food, indulge in good conversation and when you’ve scraped your plate clean, go out onto the patio for a long, drawn-out coffee in the sun.
By
Madeline
Gowers
Isabella Plantation
A Colourful Botanical Retreat
Despite its popularity, Isabella Plantation remains a serene retreat. Pack a picnic and soak in its dazzling seasonal blooms.
By
Sarra
Kassem
Naroon
Authentic Persian food
Everything I’ve tried in this restaurant is delicious and plentiful. I love the bread, the dips and I can guarantee that their saffron rice is to die for!
By
Angelina
Ivanova
Redemption Roasters
Coffee with a cause
I immediately fell in love with Redemption Roasters for their strong mission, big social impact, and great coffee of course. Plus an excellent brunch menu!
By
Angelina
Ivanova
The Three Johns
Angel's Go-To Beer and Pizza Pub
If you end up in The Three Johns, expect historic charm with a modern twist, craft beers, tasty pizzas, and a spacious, stylish setting for a night out.
By
Sarra
Kassem
Heading to London?
221 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to London?
✓ 221 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
