1. Isabella Plantation, Richmond
This gorgeously landscaped section of west London's Richmond Park is basically a fairy tale woodland. In April and May, you'll catch azaleas in bloom along the streams.
2. God's Own Junkyard, Walthamstow
Ditch the regular museums for this trippy neon warehouse at the end of the Victoria line. Open on weekends, along with its attached Rolling Stones Café, it's an excellent alternative Sunday activity.
3. St Dunstan-in-the-East, Tower Hill
This stunning secret garden in East London is the perfect hideaway. Dating back to 1100, the magical ruin will transport you out of London without ever having to leave.
4. Wilton's Music Hall, East End
Wilton's is the oldest surviving music hall in the world, and continues to host regular gigs and theatre acts, so it's perfect for catching up on your history and catching the next big thing.
5. Temple Church, Temple
History buffs, conspiracy theorists, and stained-glass admirers can't miss a trip to this spot, which was constructed by the Knights Templar nearly a thousand years ago.
6. Camley Street Natural Park, King's Cross
Nestled in the heart of central London, this green escape is a must visit for anyone looking for a little fresh air. The two-acre reserve rests alongside Regent's Canal, so promises charming views and walking paths.
7. Hatchard's, Piccadilly
London's oldest bookshop opened its doors in 1797 and has been providing the city with reading material ever since. The Piccadilly establishment retains its original, antique style and offers an incredible selection, not to mention a really cool subscription scheme.
8. Fulham Palace, Fulham
Fulham Palace provides an idyllic green getaway in west London. Fulham Palace has history dating back to Neolithic times, and offers regular historical and archaeological tours.
9. The Geffrye Museum, Hoxton
The gardens surrounding the lovely little Geffrye Museum in East London are simply dreamy, and the inside's not too shabby either. The Geffrye exhibits historical interior design and offers a unique walk through history, while its grounds offer the perfect place for a sunny day picnic.
10. The Queen's House, Greenwich
For spectacular sights in Greenwich, the Queen's House is just as necessary at the Planetarium. The stunning design and breathtaking Tulips Stairs are reasons enough to explore it, but its history as a royal residence is pretty interesting too.
11. Dennis Severs' House, Spitalfields
This charming little museum provides a uniquely intimate look at London life through the ages. Move through the rooms to follow the story of a family of silk-weavers through the generations; understand their lives and the period through their unmade beds, laundry hangings, half-eaten meals, and more.
12. King's Cross Swimming Pond, King's Cross
Regular concrete lidos have nothing on the incredible installation in King's Cross.The collaboration between landscapers, scientists, and artists has brought London the UK's first man-made fresh water public bathing pond, and the best summer outing you could ask for.
13. Maltby Street Market, Bermondsey
This underrated shopping street is a must for foodies, and almost always less crowded than Borough Market. Catch London street food favourites like Bad Brownie, Monty's Deli, The Cheese Truck, and boozier options like Little Bird Gin and the Modern Beer Bar.
14. The Tibetan Peace Garden, Elephant and Castle
If you need a breather, look no further than this little slice of paradise in the middle of Elephant and Castle. Opened and consecrated by the Dalai Lama himself, it's the perfect place to find your centre and tune out the chaos of the world around you. Not to mention it's really lovely to look at.
15. Sutton House, Homerton
This incredible Tudor mansion is tucked into the vibrant streets of East London, and stands as a unique representation of the area's history. Featuring original Tudor interiors as well as nods to the more recent past, like murals left behind by squatters in the 80's, it's a cool and singular romp through time. There's also a cute little tea shop and second hand book on site.
16. The Painted Hall, Greenwich
This drop dead gorgeous scene in Greenwich is a absolute must for art and history lovers. Painted over 20 years in the 18th century, this massive chamber at the Old Royal Navy College is simply awe-inspiring. While currently in restoration the Hall is still regularly open, with the added bonus of seeing it as a work in progress.
17. Roman Baths, Billingsgate & The Strand
Step back in time by visiting what survives of historical bathhouses. Hidden off Surrey Street along the Strand you'll find the remains of a Victorian bath that was once believed to date back to Roman times, and was regularly frequented by Charles Dickens. If you're after the real-deal Roman experience, check out the ancient ruins near Temple Station at the Billingsgate Roman House and Baths.
More about the Strand Bathhouse here. Please note viewings must be booked a week in advance!
18. Neal's Yard, Covent Garden
Extreme whimsy is the theme of London's most adorable and colourful street. This pedestrian square tucked away in Covent Garden is an excellent place for a pick-me-up or a lovely lunch.