What Are Non-Touristy Things to Do in London?

London is one of the most-visited cities in the world, which means the big attractions – the London Eye, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace - are always busy. They’re iconic, yes, but if you’re looking for something a little more local, authentic, and off the beaten track, there’s another side of London waiting to be discovered.

So, what are the non-touristy things to do in London if you want to feel more like a local and less like you’re stuck in a queue? Here are some of our favourite hidden gems, including a creative experience right in the heart of Chelsea.

man at a painting activity in the heart of london

🎨 Get Creative at Art Play London (Old Spitalfields/Shoreditch & Chelsea Venues)

One of the most refreshing ways to experience London is by doing something hands-on. That’s where Art Play London comes in.

Tucked away on the King’s Road in Chelsea, Art Play is an independent art studio that runs relaxed and social painting experiences. You don’t need to be the next Van Gogh – it’s about having fun, letting your creativity flow, and enjoying the moment.

Locals love it because it’s not touristy, it’s not rushed, and it feels genuinely authentic. You can:

Join a Sip & Paint session with friends for an evening of creativity and wine.
Try a Freeflow Unguided Painting session at weekends, where you grab a canvas and paints and just… create.
Book a private workshop if you’re in London for a special occasion and want something unique.

It’s the kind of experience that makes you feel connected to the city rather than just observing it.

🖼 Explore Shoreditch Beyond the Street Art

Shoreditch is famous for its colourful murals, but there’s more to discover if you wander a little further. A few non-touristy gems include:

Old Spitalfields Market – Skip the chain stores and look for the independent designers, vintage clothing stalls, and small-batch food traders. It’s much more relaxed than Camden Market and has a real neighbourhood feel.
Columbia Road Flower Market (Sundays) – Yes, it’s busy, but you’ll be shopping shoulder-to-shoulder with locals buying fresh flowers and houseplants for the week ahead.
The Ten Bells Pub – A historic pub with bags of character, still popular with Londoners. Perfect for a pint away from the crowds of Brick Lane.

☕ Hidden Corners of Chelsea & King’s Road

Chelsea isn’t just about posh boutiques. If you explore a little, you’ll stumble upon tucked-away treasures:

Chelsea Physic Garden – A peaceful oasis filled with medicinal and herbal plants, dating back to 1673. It’s a world away from the bustle of Sloane Square.
The Bluebird Café Courtyard – An iconic King’s Road café, but locals know the courtyard is a suntrap for coffee and people-watching.
Duke of York Square Saturday Market – Artisan breads, cheeses, chocolates, and more. It’s small but perfectly formed – a favourite weekend stop for Chelsea residents.

Pair one of these with a visit to Art Play London and you’ll have a day that feels rooted in local life, not just sightseeing.

📚 Other Non-Touristy London Ideas

If you’re still hunting for hidden gems, try these:

Daunt Books (Marylebone) – A beautiful Edwardian bookshop with oak galleries and skylights. A haven for readers.
Wilton’s Music Hall (East London) – The world’s oldest surviving music hall, with candlelit performances and a bar that feels straight out of history.
Little Venice (Paddington) – A cluster of canals and colourful houseboats where you can stroll, picnic, or hop on a boat to Camden.

✨ Final Thoughts

London is so much more than its famous landmarks. The real charm comes from the non-touristy experiences – the creative workshops, the independent markets, the cosy bookshops, and the tucked-away gardens that locals keep returning to.

If you’re ready to see London in a more authentic way, why not start with a creative afternoon at Art Play London on the King’s Road? You’ll leave with a painting to take home – and a memory that’s far more original than a souvenir from a gift shop.