8 Places to Explore in London This Reading Week

Roar writer Charmaine Tan on non-touristy places to explore in London this reading week.

When one mentions London, we think of Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, London Eye and Oxford Street. If you’ve been in London for a couple of months, I assume that you’ve already done all that. So, what now? Since Reading Week is coming up, you might find yourself asking, “Where do I go now?”. Here’s a couple of not-so-touristy places to explore this (study) break.

1. Richmond Park, Richmond upon Thames

Photo by Mark Percy (Geograph)

Personally one of my favourites, Richmond Park is one of London’s eight Royal Parks, easily accessible from the Richmond train station. Here, you can find deer roaming around freely. It’s a great place to visit for those who love the outdoors. If that’s not enough, surrounding areas to visit include Kew Gardens, as well as the amazing viewpoint of the River Thames from Richmond Hill.

2. The Postal Museum, Clerkenwell

Mail Rail (Photo by Steve Knight from flickr)

I know, I know. The Postal Museum doesn’t sound like the most interesting place to go to. But I assure you, it is worth a visit. Although relatively new to the London museum scene, The Postal Museum opened to the public only in 2017. In the 20^th century, it had existed as the ‘National Postal Museum’ but closed down in 1998. The visit starts with a ride on the Mail Rail, and visitors get to learn more about London through its historic postal service.

3. Brixton

Brixton Village (Photo by Kotomi on flickr)

Not too far away from KCL’s Denmark Hill campus is the very lively neighbourhood of Brixton. From thrift shops to museums, there’s something to do here at all hours of the day. For those looking for a fun night out, head over to Pop Brixton for a drink. If you’re a foodie, definitely do try out the many Afro-Caribbean food options at Brixton Village. Or if you go during the day, just wander around Brixton Market and admire the street art!

4. Museum of the Home, Shoreditch

Photo by JRennocks (Wikimedia Commons)

Previously known as the Geffrye Museum, Museum of the Home is a free attraction that explores the concept of ‘home’: what defines it, how it’s changed over the years, and how our identities are expressed through our homes. It’s an interesting one; it makes us think about how the simple display of objects in a home can shed light on the resident’s personality. This museum also happens to be a 10-minute walk to the Columbia Road Flower Market, which is open only on Sundays 8am-2pm.

5. Greenwich

Photo by Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net)

Everyone knows Cutty Sark and the Old Royal Naval College. But do you know about the Greenwich Foot Tunnel and Mudchute Park & Farm? Whilst the former may not sound super exciting, it’s worthwhile knowing that it is an underground passage that allows you to cross over from North to South London. It first opened in 1902 and has since then suffered bomb damage and major refurbishments. Nonetheless, it is still in use today (by millions, in fact!). As for the Mudchute Farm, it’s the largest city farm in London, boasting different species of animals, including ponies, chicken, goats, llamas, and many more.

6. Little Venice

Located in West London, Little Venice marks the start of Regent’s Canal Walk, which leads to places in North and East London such as Camden and Mile End, all the way to the River Thames. This nine-mile walk will allow you to explore the local markets and neighbourhoods, many of which have nice houses and great scenery. In terms of Little Venice, the canal is filled with boat cafés/restaurants, and it is even possible to watch a floating puppet show here!

7. Dulwich Village, Dulwich

An affluent neighbourhood situated in Southwark, Dulwich provides a quick escape from the city centre, easily accessible by public transport. Here, art lovers may visit the Dulwich Picture Gallery, while history lovers may learn more about ethnography and anthropology at the Horniman Museum & Gardens, located just East of Dulwich, at Forest Hill. If museums and galleries are not up your alley, that’s fine too: Sydenham Hill Wood and Cox’s Walk is just a stone’s throw away from the Horniman Museum. Alternatively, head West to Herne Hill for an outdoor swim experience at Brockwell Lido.

8. Museum of Brands, Notting Hill

Lastly, the Museum of Brands is also worth a visit. It tracks the changes of consumption pattern in Britain over time, starting from the Victorian era. It shows us how packaging and marketing strategies have evolved over time to reflect the societal attitudes of each decade.

All in all, there’s plenty of things you can do in London this break. Whilst exams are coming up and deadlines piling in, definitely do take some time to explore the hidden spots of the city!