London in January is a fantastic place to explore, with its mix of iconic landmarks, cosy indoor attractions, and seasonal charm.
As the festive buzz settles, the city takes on a quieter and more relaxed vibe, making it a perfect time to visit.
From historic sites and world-class museums to hidden gems and winter-themed activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for new adventures, this guide to the 10 BEST places to visit in London in January will help you make the most of your time in this vibrant city.
1) The Barbican Conservatory
The Barbican Conservatory is one of London’s best-kept secrets, offering a lush, tropical escape in the heart of the city, and February is the perfect time to visit.
Hidden inside the Brutalist-style Barbican Centre, this indoor garden oasis is home to over 1,500 species of exotic plants, towering palms, and colourful flowers, all thriving beneath a huge glass roof.
While London’s streets are cold and grey in winter, stepping into the warm, leafy conservatory feels like being transported to another world. The gentle hum of fountains, koi-filled ponds, and winding pathways create a peaceful, almost jungle-like atmosphere, perfect for a quiet afternoon away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Since fewer people know about it, February is a great time to explore without the crowds, making it easy to wander through the tropical greenery, admire rare plants, and take stunning photos.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Barbican Conservatory
1. Is The Barbican Conservatory open every day?
No, The Barbican Conservatory is only open on select days, usually Sundays and some Bank Holidays. In February, it’s best to check the Barbican’s website in advance to confirm opening times and whether you need to book a free ticket.
2. Is there an entry fee for The Barbican Conservatory?
No! Entry to The Barbican Conservatory is completely free, making it one of London’s best hidden and budget-friendly attractions. However, because it’s a popular spot, booking a free ticket in advance is recommended, especially in winter months when indoor attractions are in high demand.
3. What can you see inside The Barbican Conservatory?
The conservatory is home to over 1,500 species of exotic plants, including towering palms, vibrant flowers, and rare cacti. You can also spot koi carp swimming in the ponds, wander through the lush walkways, and enjoy a peaceful escape from the city’s busy streets—perfect for a winter visit in February!
2) Kyoto Garden, Holland Park
Kyoto Garden, tucked away in Holland Park, is a peaceful Japanese garden that feels like a secret escape from London’s busy streets, and February is a beautiful time to visit.
While the rest of the city might be grey and cold, Kyoto Garden remains serene and full of charm, with its stone lanterns, elegant bridges, and cascading waterfall creating a calming atmosphere.
Even in winter, the evergreen plants, carefully placed rocks, and koi-filled pond make it a stunning place to wander. The crisp February air adds to the tranquil feel, and since it’s a quieter time of year, you can enjoy the garden’s beauty without the usual crowds.
The soft winter sunlight reflecting on the water and the occasional splash of colour from early-blooming flowers make it a perfect spot for photography, mindfulness, or a peaceful walk.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting Kyoto Garden, Holland Park
1. Is Kyoto Garden open in February?
Yes! Kyoto Garden is open all year round, including in February, and entry is completely free. It’s a great time to visit, as the garden is quieter in winter, making it even more peaceful.
2. What wildlife can you see in Kyoto Garden?
Kyoto Garden is home to beautiful koi fish swimming in the pond, as well as peacocks that roam the area. You might also spot squirrels and a variety of birds, making it a lovely spot for nature lovers even in winter.
3. Is Kyoto Garden good for photography in winter?
Absolutely! In February, the soft winter sunlight, misty mornings, and calm reflections in the pond make it a fantastic location for photography. The stone lanterns, waterfall, and elegant bridges create a perfect backdrop for scenic shots.
3) The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities
The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities, tucked away in East London, is one of the city’s strangest and most fascinating hidden gems, and February is the perfect time to visit.
This tiny, dimly lit museum is packed with weird and wonderful artefacts, ranging from shrunken heads and taxidermy animals to occult objects and vintage erotica. It feels like stepping into the mind of a mad collector, where every corner is filled with something unexpected.
February’s colder, darker days add to the mysterious and eerie atmosphere, making it an ideal indoor escape for those who love the unusual, macabre, and bizarre. Since it’s a small, independent museum, it’s much quieter than the big tourist attractions, so you can explore the collection at your own pace.
If you’re feeling brave, you can even enjoy a cocktail in the museum’s bar, which is just as quirky as the exhibits. Whether you’re a lover of the strange, a curious explorer, or just looking for something completely different to do in London, The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities in February is a brilliantly weird and unforgettable experience.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities
1. Do you need to book tickets in advance for The Viktor Wynd Museum?
It’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially in February, as the museum is small and has limited space. Walk-ins are sometimes available, but booking ahead ensures you don’t miss out on this unique and quirky experience.
2. Is The Viktor Wynd Museum suitable for children?
The museum contains some unusual and macabre exhibits, including taxidermy, occult items, and vintage erotica, so it’s best suited for older visitors with a curiosity for the weird and wonderful rather than young children.
3. Can you take photos inside The Viktor Wynd Museum?
Yes, photography is allowed, but flash photography is not permitted. The dim lighting and eerie displays create a perfect setting for atmospheric photos, making it a great spot for those who love unusual and artistic photography.
4) Eltham Palace
Eltham Palace, hidden away in South East London, is a stunning blend of medieval history and 1930s Art Deco luxury, making it a fascinating place to visit in February.
Once a royal residence and later transformed into a glamorous 20th-century mansion, it’s a place where history meets elegance in the most unique way. In winter, the grand interiors feel even more cosy, with their ornate ceilings, rich wood panelling, and stylish Art Deco furnishings offering a warm escape from the cold.
As you wander through the lavish rooms, including the circular entrance hall and the opulent dining room, you’ll get a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyle of the Courtauld family, who lived here in the 1930s.
Outside, the gardens take on a quiet, frosty charm, with the moat and stone bridges adding to the fairytale-like setting. Since February is a quieter time to visit, you can explore without the crowds, making it a perfect spot for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a peaceful winter day out.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting Eltham Palace
1. Is Eltham Palace open in February?
Yes! Eltham Palace is open year-round, including in February, though opening times may be slightly reduced in winter. It’s a great time to visit, as the fewer crowds make it easier to explore the stunning interiors and gardens at your own pace.
2. What makes Eltham Palace unique?
Eltham Palace is special because it’s a rare mix of medieval and Art Deco design. Originally a Tudor royal palace, it was transformed into a glamorous 1930s mansion, filled with stylish interiors, luxurious furnishings, and historic details—making it one of London’s most fascinating hidden gems.
3. Can you explore the gardens at Eltham Palace in winter?
Yes! Even in February, the gardens are open, offering quiet, scenic walks around the moat, historic stone bridges, and landscaped grounds. The frost-covered lawns and peaceful setting make it a beautiful place for a winter stroll.
5) Daunt Books, Marylebone
Daunt Books, tucked away in Marylebone, is one of London’s most beautiful and atmospheric bookshops, and February is the perfect time to visit.
Housed in an Edwardian building, this charming bookshop is famous for its gorgeous oak galleries, huge arched windows, and warm, inviting atmosphere—making it an ideal place to escape from the cold winter weather.
Specialising in travel books, Daunt Books is a dream for anyone who loves to explore the world through literature, with its shelves arranged by country rather than genre, so you can easily find fiction, history, and guides all in one place.
The soft lighting, creaky wooden floors, and endless rows of books create a cosy and peaceful environment, perfect for browsing at your own pace or curling up with a new find. February’s quieter days make it an even better time to visit, allowing you to soak up the calm, bookish charm without the usual crowds.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting Daunt Books, Marylebone
1. What makes Daunt Books different from other bookshops?
Daunt Books is unique because it organises books by country rather than genre. This means you can find fiction, travel guides, history, and culture books all in one section, making it a brilliant place to explore stories from around the world.
2. Can you sit and read inside Daunt Books?
Yes! While it’s not a café, Daunt Books has a relaxed atmosphere, and visitors are welcome to browse at their own pace. The beautiful oak galleries and cosy corners make it the perfect spot to lose yourself in a book for a while.
3. Is Daunt Books a good place to visit in February?
Absolutely! February is a great time to visit, as the warm, book-filled space is a perfect escape from the cold winter weather. With fewer visitors, you can enjoy the calm, quiet atmosphere and take your time finding a new favourite read.
6) Leake Street Arches
Leake Street Arches, hidden beneath Waterloo Station, is one of London’s most vibrant and ever-changing street art spots, and February is a great time to visit.
This underground tunnel, also known as "The Banksy Tunnel", is completely covered in colourful graffiti and murals, with artists constantly creating new pieces—so no two visits are ever the same. In winter, when the weather is cold and wet, this covered space offers a unique way to explore London’s street art scene without having to brave the rain.
The bold colours and creative designs brighten up even the greyest of days, making it a fantastic place for photography, inspiration, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.
As well as the incredible artwork, the area has been transformed into a cool hangout spot, with trendy bars, restaurants, and even immersive theatre experiences hidden within the tunnels.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting Leake Street Arches
1. Is Leake Street Arches free to visit?
Yes! Leake Street Arches is completely free to visit, making it one of London’s best budget-friendly hidden gems. You can wander through the colourful tunnel, admire the ever-changing graffiti, and explore the quirky bars and eateries nearby without any cost.
2. Can anyone create street art at Leake Street Arches?
Yes! Leake Street Arches is an open space where artists of all levels are welcome to express themselves. Whether you’re a professional graffiti artist or just want to try your hand at street art, you can bring your spray paints and add your own mark to the tunnel.
3. What’s the best time to visit Leake Street Arches in winter?
February is a great time to visit, as the tunnel provides shelter from the winter weather, allowing you to enjoy the bold artwork and vibrant atmosphere without getting cold or wet. Visiting during the day gives you the best light for viewing and photographing the artwork, while evenings are perfect for enjoying the lively bars and events in the area.
7) The Charterhouse
The Charterhouse, tucked away near Smithfield Market, is one of London’s most fascinating historic sites, yet few people even know it exists.
This medieval complex, dating back to the 14th century, has been a monastery, a Tudor mansion, a school, and an almshouse, making it a place packed with stories.
February is a fantastic time to visit, as the quieter winter months allow you to explore its hidden courtyards, grand halls, and ancient chapel without the usual crowds.
Walking through the cobblestone passages and atmospheric cloisters, you can almost feel the history around you, from the time of the Black Death to the days of Henry VIII. Inside, the Great Hall and the museum showcase artefacts and portraits that bring the Charterhouse’s past to life.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Charterhouse
1. Is The Charterhouse open to the public?
Yes! The Charterhouse is open to visitors, and you can explore parts of the site for free, including the museum and chapel. If you want to see more of the historic buildings, you can join a guided tour, which runs on select days.
2. What makes The Charterhouse special in February?
February is a great time to visit because the quiet winter months mean you can explore the medieval cloisters, historic Great Hall, and peaceful courtyards without crowds. The crisp winter air and early evening light also add to the atmospheric charm of this hidden gem.
3. How do you get to The Charterhouse?
The Charterhouse is located near Smithfield Market, just a short walk from Barbican, Farringdon, and St. Paul’s stations. It’s easy to reach by Tube, bus, or on foot, making it a perfect stop on a historic London day out.
8) Rotherhithe Tunnel Shaft at the Brunel Museum
The Rotherhithe Tunnel Shaft, hidden beneath The Brunel Museum, is one of London’s most fascinating underground spaces, and February is a great time to visit.
This huge, circular underground chamber was originally built by Isambard Kingdom Brunel in the 19th century as part of the world’s first underwater tunnel, linking Rotherhithe and Wapping beneath the River Thames.
Today, the vast space—once used for Victorian banquets and fairs—has been transformed into a hauntingly beautiful venue for performances, concerts, and special events.
The Brunel Museum offers guided tours that take you down into the shaft, where you can stand inside this incredible engineering marvel and hear the story of how Brunel built one of the most ambitious tunnels of its time.
With fewer visitors in February, it’s a great time to enjoy the experience without the crowds and soak in the history, architecture, and mystery of this hidden underground world.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting Rotherhithe Tunnel Shaft at the Brunel Museum
1. How do you access the Rotherhithe Tunnel Shaft?
The Rotherhithe Tunnel Shaft is located beneath The Brunel Museum in Rotherhithe. You can only access it through guided tours and special events, so it’s best to check the museum’s website in advance for tour dates and ticket availability.
2. Why is February a good time to visit the Rotherhithe Tunnel Shaft?
February is a great time to visit because the cool underground atmosphere feels even more dramatic in winter, adding to the mystical and eerie charm of the space. With fewer visitors this time of year, you can enjoy a more immersive and personal experience.
3. What kind of events take place inside the Rotherhithe Tunnel Shaft?
The tunnel shaft is often used for concerts, immersive theatre performances, and candlelit storytelling events, which make the most of its echoing acoustics and historic setting. Visiting during one of these events is a fantastic way to experience the space in a truly unique way.
9) The Cinema Museum
The Cinema Museum, tucked away in a historic Victorian workhouse in Kennington, is one of London’s most fascinating hidden gems, and February is the perfect time to visit.
This quirky and atmospheric museum is dedicated to the golden age of cinema, filled with a treasure trove of vintage film posters, classic movie reels, art deco cinema seats, and old projection equipment.
Walking inside feels like stepping back in time, making it a must-visit for film lovers and history enthusiasts alike. February’s cold weather makes it an ideal indoor attraction, where you can explore the charm and nostalgia of old Hollywood while staying warm.
Since the museum is only accessible via pre-booked guided tours, visiting in winter means you can enjoy a quieter, more personal experience, getting up close with the unique collection of cinema memorabilia. The museum also hosts special film screenings, Q&As with industry experts, and themed events, adding to its vibrant cultural atmosphere.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Cinema Museum
1. Can you visit The Cinema Museum without booking a tour?
No, The Cinema Museum is only accessible through guided tours, which must be booked in advance. This makes it a more intimate and immersive experience, as visitors get a detailed look at the collection with expert insights.
2. What makes The Cinema Museum unique?
The museum is special because it preserves the magic of classic cinema, showcasing rare film memorabilia, vintage projectors, and original cinema furnishings. Housed in a former Victorian workhouse, it also has a rich history, adding to its charm.
3. Does The Cinema Museum host film screenings?
Yes! The museum regularly hosts film screenings, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and special themed events, making it a great spot for movie lovers looking for a unique cinema experience in London.
10) Hampstead Pergola and Hill Garden
Hampstead Pergola and Hill Garden is one of London’s most romantic and atmospheric hidden gems, and February is a fantastic time to visit.
Perched on the edge of Hampstead Heath, this forgotten Edwardian walkway is a stunning mix of overgrown beauty, crumbling stone pillars, and twisting vines, making it feel like something from a fairy tale or secret garden.
In winter, when the trees are bare and mist lingers in the air, the moodiness of the pergola becomes even more magical. The low February sunlight filters through the arches, casting beautiful shadows over the paths, while the quietness of the season means you can explore the hidden corners in peaceful solitude.
Originally built in the early 20th century as a grand outdoor terrace for lavish parties, the pergola now has a mysterious, slightly forgotten charm, perfect for photographers, history lovers, or anyone looking for a quiet escape from the busy city.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting Hampstead Pergola and Hill Garden
1. Is Hampstead Pergola and Hill Garden free to visit?
Yes! Hampstead Pergola and Hill Garden is completely free to visit, making it one of London’s best hidden gems for a scenic walk. It’s open year-round, and February is a great time to explore without the crowds.
2. What’s the best way to reach Hampstead Pergola and Hill Garden?
The easiest way to get there is by taking the Tube to Hampstead or Golders Green (Northern Line) and then walking for about 15–20 minutes. The nearby Hampstead Heath Overground station is also a good option for those travelling from other parts of London.
3. What makes Hampstead Pergola special in winter?
In February, the bare trees, misty air, and overgrown vines give the pergola a beautifully mysterious and slightly eerie atmosphere. The soft winter sunlight makes it a stunning spot for photography, and the quiet surroundings make it perfect for a peaceful winter walk.
There you have it! These are 10 of the best places located in London to visit in February, which are perfect for an adventure! Whether you plan to do a road trip in and around London or are visiting for a long weekend in February, you should definitely check out some of these places.
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