If a Londoner wanted to visit a museum where he or she could study the bones of animals of nearly every shape and size, chances are the Natural History Museum in South Kensington would come to mind. The problem is that every other fan of the natural sciences will head there too - often with screaming children in tow. For the more serious-minded fan of stuffed animals and elephant skulls, the Grant Museum of Zoology is the more appropriate (and much calmer) choice.
This centrally located museum is more compact than the Natural History Museum, but I find myself spending more time studying certain displays without the need to rush along to the next exhibit. Along with the usual skeletons of monkeys or cats, there are more quirky displays that show the richness of the 67,000 specimen collection. Keep an eye out for the dodo and the Tasmanian Devil. The jar of tiny moles is also a strange but oddly intriguing sight.
The museum also provides a number of events (most of them free) for the intellectually curious, including lectures, films, and Q&A sessions with curators.
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The Old Queen’s Head boasts a stunning interior, lively events, and sunny front benches — perfect for soaking up the buzz of Essex Road.
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Camden Passage, a charming pedestrian alley in Islington, is a haven for antique lovers, boutique shoppers, and café-goers, offering a timeless, cozy escape.
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Ridley Road Market, a Hackney staple since the 1800s, offers fresh producs, textiles, and spices at bargain prices. Try the hidden Ararat Bakery’s naan!
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Victoria Park Village, a charming enclave near the park, offers independent shops, cozy pubs, and a relaxed, village-like atmosphere perfect for a weekend visit.
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Paper Dress Vintage in Hackney fuses fashion, live music, and craft beer, transforming from a vintage shop by day to a buzzing venue with gigs and club nights.
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Rio Cinema in Dalston, an Art Deco venue since the 1930s, delights cinephiles with indie films, festivals, cocktails and timeless charm in East London.
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Chatsworth Market offers a relaxed Sunday escape in East London, featuring artisan goods, global street food and a strong community vibe away from crowds.
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God’s Own Junkyard in Walthamstow is a quirky gallery of neon signs, vintage lights, and unique art with free entrance and a café bar to relax in!
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The New River Walk invites you to a serene escape in Islington, with peaceful paths, benches, and scenic views along a historic man-made waterway.
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The De Beauvoir Deli, a neighborhood staple for 15 years, offers artisan cheeses, charcuterie, fresh sandwiches, and more. A true go-to local spot!
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The Anchor & Hope stands out in Hackney for its old-school charm, welcoming mix of locals, cosy decor, and riverside beer garden hidden in East London.
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The Bridge in Shoreditch charms with its quirky retro décor, cosy nooks, and rich coffee aroma, perfect for a winter night out with cocktails or Turkish sweets.
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215 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 215 Insider Tips from our local Spotters