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Secret Spots To Relax in London
Ever feel like you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city streets? London is amazing to stay in, and exploring all the different aspects of city life never gets boring… but it can get tiring. Thankfully, London has a few tricks up its sleeve to let you escape whilst staying put in the capital. Check out our favourite places to relax, unwind and chill in London town.
Purl London – 50-54 Blandford Street, W1U 7HX
This little hideaway is home to one of the most sensory drinking experiences in London. It’s so secret that you need a password to get in (whisper ‘hair of the dog’) and booking is highly advisable. Never overcrowded, the bar has one of the most relaxing vibes in London. The mix of perfectly crafted classic cocktails, live jazz on Wednesday’s, cosy furniture, vintage décor and expert service makes this a delectable chill space, with secluded nooks to slip into at every turn. You’ll experience drinks that won’t just satisfy the taste buds, it’ll appeal to all of your senses, using foam, liquid nitrogen, fogs, aromas and some of the finest spirits and liquors in the world.
Kyoto Garden – Holland Park, Holland Park Avenue, W11 4UA
If you’re after some tranquility, then head to one of the most zen spots in London, the Kyoto Garden in Holland Park. The gardens contain beautiful Japanese-style gardens with impressively sized koi carp, waterfalls, native flowers and plants and traditional Japanese decoration. The garden is surprisingly quiet, aside from the chill sounds of the waterfalls and the odd peacock that roams around. It’s the perfect space to settle down, take in the beauty of the world and restore your spirit.
Highgate Cemetery – Swain’s Lane, N6 6PJ
Okay, yes, we are suggesting a cemetery to go to and have a totally relaxing and chill time, but hear us out! Highgate Cemetery is one of the most beautiful historical spots in London. The cemetery has been around since 1839 and is one of London’s most prolific Victorian burial grounds. Visitors are free to roam through the East grounds, where you’ll find tombs and urns cloaked in ivy, and the graves of Douglas Adams, Patrick Caulfield, George Eliot, Malcolm McLaren and Karl Marx. The cemetery also has regular special events throughout the year, from historical talks to memorial candle lightings.
Phytology – Middleton Street, E2 9RR
Not just a community garden, Phytology is a project amongst local groups and artists to explore the use of urban eco-space. Opened in Bethnal Green Nature Reserve in 2014, the space combines the lovingly crafted garden with a platform for botanists, artists, musicians and writers to come together and collaborate over the peacefulness that the space offers, practising the art of mindfulness amongst the busy cityscape.
Crossrail Roof Garden – E14
Currently, Canary Wharf’s Crossrail station doesn’t actually have any trains… It’s not due to open until 2018, but already this area is starting to flourish with innovative design and areas to escape to. Architects Foster + Partners designed a gorgeous roof garden, completely covered in natural substances, from fauna and flora to giant timber beams and sustainable materials. The plants and flowers are exotic to represent the history of trading in the area’s docks and watching the colours change as the sunsets of London shine through the glass roof is just breath-taking. Nestled amongst the greenery, a performance space makes the area really come alive with music, dance and theatre.