Over a million people live in London and it’s one of the busiest places in the world. So it can be difficult to find quiet spots to take a little peace in a busy week or day. Clarendon Serviced Apartments has scoured the capital to find some of the most peaceful spots around the city. Take a peek and beat the crowds …
1. Kyoto Gardens, Holland Park near to Clarendon’s Hammersmith apartment
Japanese style gardens in the heart of the capital are hard to beat. The Kyoto Garden in West London was created in 1991 to celebrate a Japanese Festival and the ties and friendship between Britain and Japan. Laid out in the traditional Japanese style the gardens were refurbished in 2001. It’s a peaceful setting, especially with the stunning waterfall that is an ideal spot for some light reading.
2. Queen Charlotte’s Cottage, Kew near to Clarendon’s Kew apartments
A quaint spot within Kew Gardens this garden was originally built as a country retreat for the royal family. There’s a paddock which once housed exotic animals like Kangaroos. Now its home to a fine flower garden which in spring fills with bluebells. The story goes that it was Queen Victoria’s wish that the gardens surrounding the cottage would be left untouched and to this day it’s been upheld. If you visit don’t forget to bring your camera with you.
3. Thames Barrier, near to Clarendon’s Canary Wharf apartments
One of the most peaceful spots in London this is a great space for a day out, especially with kids. There’s an educational spot and an exhibition centre with a video and model. Add in the riverside walks, children’s play area and café and you’ve got plenty to explore. The Thames Barrier cost £500m and was opened by the Queen in 1984. It covers 520 metres at Woolwich Reach and is easily reached by DLR to Pontoon Dock.
4. Daunts Books, Marylebone near to Clarendon’s Oxford Street and Goodge Street apartments
This is one of the loveliest bookshops in London. An old Edwardian store with oak panelled galleries, balconies and long bookshelves to browse it’s easy to find yourself getting lost. The range of books on offer is eclectic and international. You’ll find a book you didn’t even know you were looking for. Visitors get free cups of elderflower cordial and there’s a special section for children with regular reading sessions. A hidden gem!
5. St Giles Cripplegate Church, Barbican Centre close to Clarendon’s Barbican Studios
The Barbican is an underrated building; with its tunnels and concealed entrance you may find it difficult to get in! Yet it is full of peaceful spots including high walkways, the music library and indoor tropical conservatory. At the heart of the complex is St Giles Cripplegate. Amidst the modernist design stands a building which has withstood the Great Fire and WWII. Even though the Barbican is busy in the evenings you’ll find times of day when this little oasis is calm and peaceful with its lakeside terrace.
If you’re visiting London or staying at one of Clarendon’s centrally located serviced apartments ensure you come to visit one of these peaceful spots to find your moment of calm in one of the world’s busiest cities.