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13th December 2022
And while London is certainly one of the world’s most bustling cities, perhaps what Johnson was referring to was the amount of countless hidden gems littered throughout the city that often lay completely undiscovered.
Of course, visitors to London will seek out the world-famous hotspots, such as Buckingham Palace, Oxford Street and London Bridge. But there are so many less famous (and we think more fun!) things to do in London that many people overlook.
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The area of Belgravia itself is already one of the best-known neighbourhoods in London. With its long, rich history, glorious architecture and pretty tree-lined streets, Belgravia is known as one of London’s premier destinations for hotels, boutique shopping and Michelin star restaurants. But what many people don’t know is that underneath Belgravia’s affluent exterior lies many obscure destinations that hold the secret to London’s hidden charm. If you desire non-touristy things to do in London, then look no further.
From historical pubs and casual dining restaurants, to tiny cake shops and lesser-known boutique hotels, Belgravia is bursting with hidden London gems for you to discover.
So whether you’re looking for an afternoon stroll through this London neighbourhood, or you’re looking for the best places to eat, drink and shop that only the locals know about, let us take you on a tour of Belgravia’s best kept secrets.
Where? In and around the area of Belgravia
What? Walking tour taking in all the hidden sights of London
Website: https://pinayflyinghigh.com/belgravia-highlights/
Why you should try this hidden gem: Belgravia is not just beautiful, it’s also steeped in history. And a walk around Belgravia’s tree-lined streets is the perfect outing where you’ll find hidden delights, such as quaint eateries, traditional pubs and famous London landmarks.
While there are countless websites and companies offering guided tours of London, there’s nothing quite like organising your own walking route, to match your own unique taste. Using the website we’ve given above, you can plan out the perfect tour, whether you’re walking solo, or with friends, family, your partner or your dog!
We recommend stopping off at Motcomb Street, where you’ll find some of the most exciting independent, boutique shops, as well as small and cosy places to grab a light bite and some refreshment.
You can also discover a wealth of local, small gardens and green spaces, as you take in the sights, before heading to one of Belgravia’s historical pubs, such as the Nags Head or the Grenadier.
The perfect walking tour of Belgravia will see you enjoy classic architecture, stunning views and some of London’s true hidden gems.
Where? 25 Eccleston Street, Belgravia, SW1W 9NP
What? Bistro offering elevated Italian dishes & robust wine list plus a wraparound terrace
Website: https://www.chucsrestaurants.com/restaurant/chucs-belgravia/
Why you should try this hidden gem: With various locations in London’s most affluent areas, Chucs in Belgravia is our favourite by a mile! With room for over 100 guests, Chucs restaurant on Eccleston Street is their most ambitious location yet. And we love the addition of the wraparound terrace, where you can enjoy some al-fresco dining, as well as cocktails and liqueurs.
With over 120 bottles of wine on their list, Chucs is a great spot for wine lovers to discover. And with interiors designed by the renowned Fettle Studios, this restaurant is classic Parisian chic, mixed perfectly with modern-day london.
When it comes to food, Chucs offers a relaxing and a casual dining experience, with Mediterranean favourites across their delicious menus. We love the steak tartar and beef carpaccio for starters. And for the veggies out there, there’s the fantastic burrata and Heritage tomato salad. Moving on to mains, you’ll find a great variety of pasta, rice and pizza, as well as classic, tasty dishes like the chicken Milanese and poached cod.
This blue Mediterranean haven stands proud on the corner of Eccleston Street. Therefore, while not exactly a “hidden” gem, this quaint little bistro certainly is one of our favourite restaurants in Belgravia that you simply must seek out.
Where? 21 Lowndes Street, Belgravia, SW1X 9ES
What? Small, intimate, 5-star boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Belgravia
Website: https://www.jumeirah.com/en
Why you should try this hidden gem: While Belgravia is certainly known for its 5-star luxury hotels, some of these beautiful little guest houses still remain relatively unknown. One such hidden gem is the Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel on Lowndes Street.
This chic, modern hotel offers a little bit of peace and quiet in the centre of London, and is the perfect location to enjoy a weekend getaway or short break. With luxurious rooms and suites, as well as weekly offers on rates, staying at the Jumeirah Hotel doesn’t have to break the bank.
Plus, you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at the sumptuous Lowndes Belgravia restaurant, which is a bistro-style eatery brought to you by Chef Isabella Vas. But that’s not all! This branch of the Jumeirah hotel chain also has complimentary access to all of the spa facilities located at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower branch just a short walk away. The spa includes treatments such as massages, facials and aesthetics, along with outstanding panoramic views of the city.
Where? 116 Ebury St, Belgravia, SW1W 9QQ
What? Chic bakery with creative cupcakes, fancy cakes, tea and champagne
Website: https://www.peggyporschen.com/
Why you should try this hidden gem: The heavenly little cake shop of Peggy Porchen on Ebury Street is an absolute must-see for visitors in the Belgravia area. A local landmark in its own right, this bubblegum-pink shop is a haven for sweet treats, including handmade cupcakes, eclairs and delightful French pastries.
Another gem of a destination hidden in plain sight, guests at Peggy Porschen can enjoy classic afternoon tea, parlour parties and bespoke cake orders.
There is absolutely no mistaking this beautiful and unique cake shop. Completely decorated with flowers, and with a pink and gold colour scheme, a trip to Peggy Porschen will make you feel like a fairy princess! But, if you want to give your visit a more of an adult twist, then check out Peggy Porschen’s incredible list of sparkling Champagnes to enjoy with your perfect piece of cake.
Finally, if you can’t get enough of this highly instagrammable little shop, then why not sign up for a course at the Peggy Porschen Academy? Here you can learn to recreate Peggy’s iconic cakes at home. But painting your entire home pink is optional!
