Obviously we’re not be able to visit some places in London at the moment. But once we can, you may be interested in trying some more unusual (and less busy) ideas. Unsurprisingly, some of these have a literary connection, and some are perfect for a bit of creative inspiration. So read on for five things writers can do in London.
1) The British Library Behind-The-Scenes Tour
These daily behind-the-scenes tours offer a small, but fascinating glimpse into the building and how it works. And it’s not too pricey either at £10 each for adults. I’ve blogged about my visit to give you a taste, but thoroughly recommend you go yourself!
2) The Hunterian Museum
Looking for something macabre yet educational? Try the Hunterian Museum. Attached to The Royal College of Surgeons, this free museum houses all manner of weird and wonderful things, usually in jars.
3) A tour of the London Underground
This costs £20 for a two-hour tour plus you have to pay for your tube travel. My boyfriend and I share a fascination with underground spaces like tunnels, caves, and mines we were both intrigued by this one. The chance to (briefly) view a disused platform is a highlight – who knows what could be down there?
4) Dennis Sever’s House
This is definitely a unique bit of history. Dennis lived in the house from 1979 to 1999 and refurbished the place room by room. Each one is set up as if the family Huguenot silk-weavers who lived there have just stepped out.
5) Highgate Cemetery
And lastly, a chance to confront the finality of life. Too dark? Alternatively, just enjoy some extraordinary Victorian funereal architecture by exploring Highgate cemetery. There are two, in fact, east, and west. East Highgate has a small cost but can be wandered around at leisure. West Highgate can only be explored via a reasonably priced and very informative guided tour.
I’d love to hear any other recommendations. Do you have an inspiring place in London or an activity you’ve loved? Please share in the comments!
28/06/2020 at 9:52 PM
On the literary side, the last time we were in London we hit Westminster, the Globe, Hyde Park, and the Earl’s Court station, as well as going by the HMS Belfast (Neil Gaiman’s Neverwhere). The Tower was fun both for the history and inspiring (plus Traitor’s Gate briefly features in Michael Scott’s Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel, so extra literary).
28/06/2020 at 9:54 PM
Sorry, hit King’s Cross station. We stayed in Earl’s Court (also featured in Neverwhere, though). 🙂
03/07/2020 at 7:56 AM
That’s an excellent itinerary of things to do! Also makes me think you could do a really good Neverwhere tour – although you couldn’t quite get everywhere without Door!
03/07/2020 at 7:22 PM
There’s my retirement plan: move to the UK and lead literary, F/SF/UF tours. 😁
05/07/2020 at 8:46 AM
Now that’s a plan!