5 Unique Things to Do in London in 2026 (The Best Bits)
From Camden Markets to sunbathing in St James or Hyde Park, follow our expert guide to make the most out of your London trip. Unravel the hidden gems of London, the rightly popular destinations and the best, unique things to do in London in 2026.
Explore Camden Market: A Must-Visit for Food, Fashion, and Fun
If you’re looking for unique places to visit in London, Camden Market is the perfect spot for a fun, vibrant day out. Located in the heart of Camden Town, this iconic market is packed with energy, creativity, and endless things to discover, from street food and independent shops to vintage fashion and jewellery.
With over 200 stalls, Camden Market is ideal for anyone who loves to browse. I found a gorgeous crystal-white ring with a silver outline from a lovely vendor, it made the experience even more special. You’ll find everything from one of a kind clothes and accessories to quirky gifts and homeware. If you are looking for a unique piece of jewellery to buy yourself as a reminder of your London trips, this is the place to buy it!
Feeling hungry? The Camden Food Market area is bursting with global flavours. You’ll likely be called over by enthusiastic stall owners it’s part of the charm but could be overwhelming for some! Camden Market is home to the highly regarded Humble Crumble and is a must if you fancy a delicious dessert. Camden Markets has little glass pods to sit and eat in, but just a heads-up, they can get pretty warm, like tiny greenhouses!
Camden markets are full of photo booths. Which is super cute, but be careful some snap FAST and reserve the right to reprint your pictures, so be careful with what you are doing in there.
Camden Markets does get busy, but it’s not unbearable and absolutely worth it. Just keep an eye on your budget (and your purse), because it’s easy to spend more than planned with so many cool finds!!
Camden Market opening hours are typically 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but check in advance.
Word on the Water: A Must-Visit Floating Bookshop Near King’s Cross, London
If you’re searching for a truly unique and atmospheric bookstore in London, make sure to visit Word on the Water, also known as Word on the Water: The London Bookbarge. I’ve been twice now, and each visit has been just as delightful as the last. This charming independent bookshop is housed on a 1920s Dutch barge moored along the scenic Regent’s Canal, just a short walk from King’s Cross and St Pancras International stations, making it an easy and accessible stop for anyone exploring the area.
Inside Word on the Water bookshop, you’ll find a warm and inviting atmosphere filled with a mix of secondhand and new books, including fiction, poetry, history, and more. They also offer their own beautifully designed postcards, perfect as a keepsake or gift. The shop’s unique character, combined with its welcoming vibe, makes it an ideal spot for book lovers and those looking for something a little different from traditional London bookstores.
The area around Word on the Water London is equally charming. Situated near Coal Drops Yard, a trendy shopping and dining area, you’ll find a variety of independent shops, cafés, and restaurants perfect for grabbing a bite or enjoying a coffee. You can also find high street brands like Uniqlo in Coal Drops Yard. The peaceful canal path is perfect for a relaxed stroll, making it a great place to spend a few hours. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Word on the Water bookstore offers a perfect blend of literature, history, and the charm of canal-side London.
Electric Cinema London: The Most Luxurious Movie Night in Notting Hill and White City
Planning a romantic date night or a stylish evening with your best friends?
The Electric Cinema London is not just a cinema, it’s a curated escape into comfort, design, and sophistication. With locations in Notting Hill and White City, this boutique cinema offers a level of luxury and atmosphere that no traditional cinema can match. Electric Cinema also own a private venue in Soho, where you can privately rent 43 seats and watch your favourite films in 4K production.
At Electric Cinema you can watch the latest films while reclining in plush leather armchairs or cozy velvet beds, wrapped in cashmere blankets, as gourmet food and artisan cocktails are served directly to you and available at the bar. What truly sets the Electric Cinema Notting Hill London apart is its heritage, it’s one of the oldest working cinemas in the UK, combining Edwardian architecture with Soho House-level styling. The White City location, nestled inside the chic Television Centre, brings the same indulgence in a sleek, contemporary setting.
Whether you’re looking for the best cinema in London, a unique Portobello date night idea, or an unforgettable girls’ night out, the Electric Cinema turns an ordinary film into a full-on lifestyle moment (and one to certainly add to the scrapbook). For the discerning traveller, this is where culture, comfort, and cool effortlessly meet, and a lovely place to go and relax!
Outernet London 2026: Immersive Art, and Digital Experiences (FREE)
Looking for the best immersive art and digital experiences in London? Outernet London is the perfect destination for cutting-edge technology, creative exhibitions, and innovative installations. Whether you’re an art lover, tech enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience, Outernet London offers something for everyone. Watch a cool video to see what Outernet can offer you here.
Outernet London is known for its immersive digital art installations, which are displayed on the venue’s massive, high-tech screens in The Now Building. These free, rotating art exhibitions are available daily from 10:00 AM to 11:30 PM, ensuring a fresh and dynamic experience each time you visit. Outernet London is also known for its seasonal immersive experiences, with new installations to match each time of year. The one you can see here is a Spring 2025 special.
Outernet London offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the future of art and technology. With immersive digital art installations, interactive exhibitions, and seasonal experiences, it’s a cultural hotspot that blends art with innovation. Whether you’re exploring the latest digital art trends or simply looking for something different to do in London, Outernet offers a one-of-a-kind experience that is constantly evolving.
St James’s Park: A Tranquil, Central Escape in the Heart of London
St James’s Park in London is one of the city’s most iconic and historic royal parks, located just 300 feet from Buckingham Palace and near Trafalgar Square. Covering 57 acres (23 hectares), the park features a serene lake, charming bridges, and spacious green areas, making it ideal for a relaxing walk or peaceful picnic. Known for its pelicans, beautiful views, and tree-lined paths, St James’s Park offers plenty of quiet spots to sit and enjoy the surroundings. It’s calm, feels safe, and is centrally located, making it an easy and pleasant escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is also conveniently close to major landmarks like Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, 10 Downing Street, and Horse Guards Parade.
The nearest tube stations are St James’s Park, Green Park, Victoria, and Westminster, all within walking distance. Whether arriving by foot or from nearby car parks, St James’s Park provides a beautiful and accessible retreat, with its royal connections making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. I always go to this park to unwind, take in the peaceful atmosphere, and enjoy its central location—it’s one of my favourite spots in London. St James has its own cafes and toilets, but there is also a Tesco a short distance away where you could pick up a meal deal or some snacky bits to enjoy in the park. Don’t forget to take a picnic blanket, book, suncream and all your other picnic bits with you!
Summary: Top 5 Unique Things to Do in London in 2026
Planning a 2026 London adventure? Check out these must-visit experiences:
- Camden Market: Dive into this vibrant hub for street food, vintage fashion, and unique jewellery in the heart of Camden Town.
- Word on the Water: Browse books on a charming floating bookshop moored on Regent’s Canal near King’s Cross.
- Electric Cinema: Enjoy a luxurious movie night with plush seats and gourmet treats in Notting Hill or White City.
- Outernet London: Explore free, immersive digital art installations in The Now Building, perfect for tech and art lovers.
- St James’s Park: Relax in a serene royal park near Buckingham Palace, ideal for picnics and scenic strolls.
These unique activities blend culture, creativity, and relaxation for an unforgettable London trip.Share your favourite London spots in the comments below!
