On the list of adjectives you’d use to describe London, ‘peaceful’ is presumably right near the bottom. The city is crowded, noisy and chaotic – and that’s exactly why we love it so. However, sometimes it does us all good to turn the volume down a touch and spend some time in one of the city’s little-known refuges of calm. Best get on your bike before word gets out.
This twelfth-century church was left untouched after being heavily damaged by Blitz bombs, presumably because everyone was quite busy after World War II. Decades later, nature has taken over, and what remains is a blissfully peaceful and wonderfully verdant public garden – about as chilled out as it gets in Zone 1. Look out for the still-intact tower, which was added to the church by Sir Christopher Wren in 1700.
Nearest Santander Cycles docking station: Monument Street
As architectural styles go, Brutalism isn’t the most inviting, so you’ve probably never thought to spend much time exploring the vast and imposing Barbican Centre. But you should, because there’s a massive beautiful garden hidden within it, filled with 2,000 species of exotic plants. The fact that it only opens on Sundays makes a stroll around this elusive oasis feel even more special.
Nearest Santander Cycles docking station: Silk Street
More than just a chilled-out contrast to the buzz of central London, this leafy square by the museum of London has a lovely story behind it, too. It’s home to a huge monument covered in ceramic plaques, each paying tribute to heroic folk who died trying to save others. Reading their touching stories is one of the most unusual and rewarding ways to spend an hour in London. Bring tissues.
Nearest Santander Cycles docking station: King Edward Street
Much as we love the Natural History Museum, strolling around its vast halls can quickly swallow an entire day. Time-poor? Head instead to this lesser-known cabinet of curiosities in Hackney, where exhibits include everything from rare bird skeletons and human skulls to freaky Victoriana and lots of things in jars. Best to visit after lunch, just to be on the safe side.
Nearest Santander Cycles docking station: Victoria Park Road
Originally opened in 1859, few venues in London have a history more varied and colourful than Wilton’s. Having lain in disrepair for decades, it recently benefited from a four-year restoration project, which saw Wilton’s returned to its Victorian glory. The programme of live shows is suitably eclectic, but its old-timey vibe means just stopping by for a drink is a treat in itself.
Nearest Santander Cycles docking station: Dock Street
