A Weekend Trip to London: Exploring Hidden Gems in October

If you’re planning a quick getaway to London this October, you're in for a treat. Rather than diving into the typical tourist spots, how about discovering a side of London that's a little more off the beaten path? With a chill autumn breeze and beautiful golden leaves setting the backdrop, now’s the perfect time to visit unique places, cozy up in boutique hotels, and explore London in a fresh way. Here's a guide to crafting the perfect weekend trip, featuring two distinctive accommodation options, novel things to do, places to shop, and dining experiences that will leave a lasting impression.

Where to Stay

1. The Hoxton, Shoreditch

   • Price: Around £200 per night.

   • Why Stay Here: This trendy hotel is located in the heart of Shoreditch, known for its vibrant street art and eclectic mix of indie shops. With minimalistic design and a buzzing social scene, The Hoxton makes for the perfect base to explore East London.

   • Highlight: Shoreditch’s thriving nightlife and cultural vibe ensure that you're never far from a great gallery, vintage shop, or cool restaurant.

   2. Treehouse Hotel, Marylebone

   • Price: Around £350 per night.

   • Why Stay Here: This eco-friendly, whimsical hotel provides an intimate stay with a spectacular view of the city. Close to Regent’s Park and surrounded by central London’s best, it’s perfect for a weekend retreat.

   • Highlight: The rooftop bar is a hit for unwinding with a cocktail in hand while taking in panoramic views of London.

Where to Eat and Drink

1. Sketch – The Gallery

   • Cuisine: French-European fusion.

   • What’s Special: Sketch is an experience in itself. The all-pink art gallery-turned-restaurant is quirky, luxurious, and innovative, making it ideal for either brunch or dinner. The contemporary art collection changes regularly, so each visit feels like stepping into a new world.

   • Tip: Try their afternoon tea – it’s a beloved London staple.

   2. Dishoom, Shoreditch

   • Cuisine: Bombay-inspired street food.

   • What’s Special: Dishoom brings the old-world charm of Bombay cafes to the heart of London. With a focus on creative, vibrant dishes (think bacon naan rolls), the casual yet energetic atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed weekend meal.

   • Tip: Get there early, especially for brunch, as this spot tends to fill up quickly!

   3. Nightjar, Old Street

   • Type: Speakeasy cocktail bar.

   • What’s Special: Nightjar is one of London’s hidden gems when it comes to cocktails and live jazz. It’s tucked away beneath the streets, offering an intimate yet vibrant setting for enjoying creative concoctions.

   • Tip: Book in advance! This secret spot is incredibly popular, especially on weekends.

Shopping: Where to Find Unique Treasures

1. Coal Drops Yard, King's Cross

   • Why Go Here: An alternative to the crowded Oxford Street, Coal Drops Yard in King’s Cross offers a cool mix of boutiques, artisanal stores, and restaurants. The industrial architecture adds a chic, modern twist to your shopping experience.

   • Highlight: You’ll find everything from niche fashion to homeware, with plenty of places to grab a coffee in between.

2. Brick Lane Market

   • Why Go Here: For a true East London vibe, visit Brick Lane on a Sunday to experience the bustling market full of vintage clothing, handmade crafts, and independent designers. There’s also a huge array of street food stalls, making it a perfect place to shop and snack.

   • Highlight: Check out the street art and hidden vintage stores in the area—there’s always something unique waiting to be discovered.

Things to Do: Beyond the Tourist Traps

1. God's Own Junkyard, Walthamstow

   • What’s Special: If you love vibrant neon lights, this neon-sign museum in Walthamstow is the perfect stop for you. Full of bright, quirky neon art, God's Own Junkyard offers a colorful experience unlike any other gallery.

   • Tip: Snap some photos and stop for a coffee at the in-house café!

2. Little Venice Canal Walk

   • What’s Special: Tucked away in West London, Little Venice is one of the most serene spots for a peaceful canal-side walk. Far removed from the hustle of the city, this area offers cozy waterside cafes and beautiful autumnal scenery.

   • Tip: Hop on a boat and enjoy a relaxed ride down the canal.

3. Ghost Walk of London

   • What’s Special: For a truly spooky evening, embark on one of London’s legendary ghost walks. Delve into haunted history and wander through some of the most atmospheric alleys and pubs in the city.

   • Tip: October is perfect for this, especially as the nights start to get longer and chillier.

4. Secret Cinema

   • What’s Special: If you want an interactive experience, Secret Cinema offers immersive movie screenings where you can fully engage with your favorite films. Dress up, meet the characters, and become part of the plot. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience!

   • Tip: Make sure to book tickets early, as they tend to sell out fast.

A weekend in London can be anything but ordinary if you know where to look. With these carefully curated spots for accommodation, food, shopping, and things to do, you’ll experience a side of London that’s creative, vibrant, and truly memorable. The WKNDTRP app is packed 50 city guides full of options whether you're exploring neon art, diving into Brick Lane’s market treasures, or sipping cocktails at a speakeasy, this guide will help you create a unique London adventure.