As a student living in London you will undoubtedly want to make the most of calling the best city in the world (we might be a bit biased) home.
Sure, you’ll visit the Tower of London and shuffle past the Crown Jewels. You’ll definitely spend some time dodging pigeons in Trafalgar Square and you absolutely, definitely will get down to Horse Guards Parade to see the changing of the guard. But wait… you are NOT a tourist. So, make like a native, get under London’s skin, step off the beaten track and discover some of the quirkier things you can do before you leave. That is if you leave, of course!
1. Find the stone nose of Admiralty Arch
Yep, there’s a nose on the wall near Trafalgar Square (the arch on the left if Nelson’s Column is facing you). The subject of many an urban legend it transpires that it was put there by artist Rick Buckley as a protest against the ‘nosey’ anti-crime cameras being installed in London in the 1990’s.
2. Wellcome Collection
London is home to arguably some of the best museums in the world. However the Wellcome Collection is a bit different – describing itself as the ‘free destination for the incurably curious’ it explores the connections between medicine, life and art in the past, present and future. Also home to the world famous Wellcome Library the quirky collection is well worth a visit. Find out more here.
3. Buy an umbrella in the past
James Smith and Sons is literally the shop that time forgot. Established in 1830 and, for the last 176 years has remained a family run business making and selling umbrellas. That in itself is pretty remarkable but it’s probably not until you stand outside, looking up at the untouched Victorian frontage that you will understand why this should be on your list of things to do. (Umbrella purchase optional!)
4. Live your own Night at the Museum
Many of the London museum’s run sleepovers for Adults, they can be a little expensive and are definitely a ‘London bucket list’ item. The Natural History Museum’s Dino Snores for Adults features an after-hours roam around the museum, three course meal, music, bars and an all-night monster movie marathon. How cool is that?
5. Abseil at Olympic Park
Calling all adrenaline junkies: how do you fancy abseiling from the top of ArecelorMittal Orbit? Not only is it the UK’s highest free fall abseil but you’re doing it from the UK’s tallest sculpture – that’s a pretty spectacular 2-for-1! For those brave enough to try this you’ll enjoy a phenomenal view of London dangling 262 feet above the city, there are not many people that can say they have done that! Find out more here.
6. Visit the oldest wine bar in London
Gordon’s wine bar has been watering the great and the good of London since 1890 and is still owned by the Gordon family. Located on Villiers Street in series of arches pretty much directly underneath Charing Cross station, you’ll need to get there early to grab a table inside but it’s definitely worth it. Where else in London can you drink a glass of wine, by candlelight, in a cage, in a cave…?
The Hive provides secure student accommodation in the heart of Bethnal Green. For more information please call us on +44 (0) 3551 2550 or book your viewing here.