Hidden Gems: British Locals' Favorite London Attractions to Avoid

LONDON is a city that caters to a diverse range of visitors, from world-renowned sites to hidden gems. However, some of the most popular tourist attractions are often frequented by visitors but avoided by locals. In this article, we delve into why certain attractions in London are unpopular among locals, focusing on Madame Tussaud’s, Portobello Road Market, Oxford Street, and others.

1. Madame Tussaud’s

Why locals avoid it: Don't let the allure of interactive wax figures and famous faces fool you. While Madame Tussaud’s is a beloved landmark for tourists, it's a less favorable destination for locals. The main reasons include:

The sheer cost of admission can be quite high, making it financially unappealing. The experience can be crowded and chaotic, which is the opposite of the serene environment locals seek. Given the amount of time and money invested, many locals feel it's a waste of a day.

Next time you're in the area, consider exploring some of the renowned museums or experiencing a breathtaking view from a less crowded spot.

2. Portobello Road Market

Why locals avoid it: Open to the public on Saturdays, Portobello Road Market is a bustling hub of activity, especially from morning to midday. Here’s why locals tend to avoid it:

Heavily Touristed: After 10:30 AM, the market becomes overcrowded with tourists, making it difficult to navigate and enjoy the merchandise. Desire for Authenticity: Many locals prefer a quiet, authentic shopping experience rather than the chaos that comes with tourist visits. Highlighting the Door: The iconic door at the market, now with a new color, draw more tourists and diminishes the local shopping experience.

If you’re not a tourist, it’s better to visit during the earlier hours or on a weekday to experience the true essence of the market.

3. Oxford Street in Christmas and Weekend Rushes

Why locals avoid it: Oxford Street, a shopping haven for many, quickly turns into a nightmare for locals during the holiday season and busy weekends. Here are several reasons:

Overcrowding and Traffic: During its busiest times, Oxford Street can be overrun with tourists, causing congestion on pavements and intersections. Aesthetic Decline: Many shops appear empty and derelict, with a high concentration of storefronts that are either empty or serving similar ‘candy store drug front’ purposes. Dejection and Lack of Activity: Similar to Regent Street, Oxford Street can be uncomfortably crowded with tourists, leading to a desolate feel in some areas.

Locals often recommend using the less crowded parallel streets for a more pleasant experience.

4. Leicester Square Restaurants and Soho Clipjoints

Why locals avoid them: These establishments have earned a bit of a notorious reputation among locals for their subpar offerings and high prices. Here’s why:

Pitiful Food Quality: Leicester Square restaurants are often seen as serving poor-quality food, which is not a reputation locals want to be associated with. Fraudulent Offers: In Soho, the clipjoints offer an appearance of quality and value but can trap unsuspecting tourists into expensive and disappointing experiences. Targeted at Tourists: Both areas are more likely to attract tourists, who may not be aware of the local alternatives offering better quality and value.

A visit to a local bar or club can often provide a more authentic and affordable experience.

5. Westminster Abbey and Top of the Shard

Why locals avoid them: These tourist-heavy sites are frequented by visitors but not so much by locals due to high costs and less immersive experiences. Here’s why:

High Ticket Prices: Both sites are known for their expensive entry fees, making them less accessible for locals. Lack of Purpose: Locals often find that the experience they provide is not as engaging compared to other free or more immersive options.

If you’re looking for a different experience, a pub service or a local view can be just as captivating and less costly.

6. Black Cabs and Buckingham Palace

Why locals avoid them: While iconic, locals will generally avoid certain taxi options and certain tourist attractions due to their high costs and unpopularity. Here’s why:

Extortionate Fares: Black cabs, while a symbol of London, are notoriously overpriced and can be a financial burden. Space Management: Buckingham Palace, despite its beauty, can be an overwhelming and crowded tourist destination, with long lines to enter and limited parking.

Public transport and driving around can offer a more enjoyable and hassle-free experience.

7. London Eye and Borough Market

Why locals avoid them: These popular sites, despite their attractions, are often not favorites among locals.

Long Queues and Slow Movement: The London Eye, while offering a stunning view, often involves long lines and slow moving transportation, leading to a less pleasant experience. Shadowed Options: The 6th floor of Waterstones on Piccadilly offers a similar, sometimes better, view and a cafe setting, while the OXO building provides alternative views with a bar or a scenic riverboat tour. Locally Preferred Alternatives: Borough Market, while worth a visit, becomes bustling on weekends, prompting locals to visit earlier to avoid the crowds.

For a more seamless experience, visiting during less busy times or exploring local viewpoints can be highly recommended.

Conclusion

While London is a city that caters to everyone, it's worth noting that some attractions are more suited for tourists than locals due to high costs, traffic, and crowdedness. By following the advice of the locals, visitors can enjoy a more authentic and satisfying experience. Whether it's visiting during quieter hours or exploring off-the-beaten-path spots, there's always something truly special to discover in London.