When my American guests arrive at my Kensington hotel, they usually have the same London landmarks on their must-see list: Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace. While these iconic sites are certainly worth visiting, I always encourage travelers to explore beyond these famous facades. After 15 years of living and working in London, I’ve discovered that Westminster’s true character lies in its hidden historical gems – places where you can escape the tourist crowds and experience the authentic heartbeat of British history. Today, I’m sharing two of my favorite lesser-known spots that sit quietly in the shadow of their more famous neighbors. These overlooked treasures not only offer fascinating historical insights but also provide those magical, crowd-free moments that transform a good vacation into an unforgettable one. So, let’s step off the well-worn tourist path and discover a different side of Westminster, one that even many Londoners don’t know about.

The Hidden Cloisters of Westminster Abbey

As a hotelier just minutes from Westminster, I’m often asked by my American guests about exploring beyond the Abbey’s main attractions. While the grand nave and Henry VII’s Chapel are spectacular, there’s a peaceful sanctuary that many visitors miss entirely. The Abbey’s Cloisters, dating back to the 13th century, offer a glimpse into the daily lives of medieval monks. You’ll find these serene walkways just past the main entrance, but here’s a tip: visit after 3 PM when most tour groups have departed. The afternoon light streaming through the Gothic windows creates a magical atmosphere that my photography-loving guests absolutely adore.

What makes the Cloisters truly special isn’t just their architecture – it’s the stories etched into every corner. The East Cloister still houses the entrance to the Chapter House, where monks would gather daily to discuss monastery business. I often tell my guests to look up at the Victorian-era ceiling bosses; they’re actually exact replicas of the medieval originals, and they’re painted in the same vibrant colors that would have brightened these walkways 800 years ago.

Here’s something most guidebooks won’t tell you: the best spot for quiet contemplation is the Little Cloister, a smaller courtyard that many visitors walk right past. It features a bubbling fountain and medicinal garden that’s still planted with herbs the monks would have used. During spring and summer, the fragrant lavender and rosemary make this one of the most peaceful spots in all of Westminster. I’ve lost count of how many guests have thanked me for this recommendation, especially those looking to escape London’s hustle and bustle for a moment.

Practical Tips:

  • Entry is included with your Abbey ticket ($34/£27)
  • Allow at least 30 minutes to explore properly
  • Photography is permitted in the Cloisters (unlike some parts of the Abbey)
  • The Little Cloister is sometimes closed for private events, so ask at the information desk upon arrival
  • Bring a light jacket – the stone corridors can be cool even on warm days

Did you know? The Cloisters played a starring role in several Harry Potter films. My younger American visitors get particularly excited about spotting the walkway that doubled as a Hogwarts corridor. Though the Abbey staff won’t officially point these locations out, I’ll let you in on a secret: the East Cloister walkway is where you’ll find those familiar-looking arches.

St. Margaret’s Church: The Parish Church of Parliament

Here’s something fascinating that even my London-born friends don’t all know: right next to Westminster Abbey sits what’s known as “the parish church of the House of Commons.” St. Margaret’s Church might look modest compared to its famous neighbor, but don’t let that fool you. This is where Winston Churchill got married, and where William Caxton (the first English printer) is buried. While tourists queue for the Abbey, you can often walk right into St. Margaret’s and soak in centuries of political history. Pro tip: visit during one of the free lunchtime concerts (usually Wednesdays) to experience amazing acoustics in this historic space.

I often direct my American guests here when they’re looking for what I call a “real slice of British history.” The church’s east window tells an incredible story that never fails to impress: it was originally created to commemorate Henry VIII’s marriage to Catherine of Aragon, but when Henry tried to divorce her, he demanded the window be removed. The clever monks shipped it away for safekeeping, and it wasn’t returned and installed until 1758! This kind of historical drama is what makes St. Margaret’s so special – it’s not just a building, it’s a witness to centuries of British political intrigue.

Speaking of politics, keep an eye out for the modern-day Members of Parliament who still pop in for moments of quiet reflection. Just last month, I spotted a well-known MP sitting quietly in one of the back pews during a particularly heated parliamentary debate. Don’t worry if you’re not up on current British politics though – the real treasures here are the memorials. My personal favorite is the one dedicated to Sir Walter Raleigh, who was executed in 1618 and buried beneath the church’s altar. As an American visitor, you might be interested to know that Raleigh was a key figure in establishing the first English settlement in what would become the United States – the ill-fated Roanoke Colony.

Quick Visitor’s Guide:

  • Free admission (donations appreciated)
  • Open Monday-Friday, 9:30 AM-3:30 PM
  • Security checks are quick and casual
  • Photography allowed (no flash)
  • Wheelchair accessible via the west entrance
  • Best time to visit: weekday mornings
  • Don’t miss: the Tudor-era brass chandeliers

Making the Most of Your Westminster Wanderings

As you can see, Westminster’s historical treasures extend far beyond its postcard-famous landmarks. The hidden Cloisters and St. Margaret’s Church offer something increasingly rare in central London: peaceful spaces where you can connect with history without fighting through crowds. In my years of hosting guests from across the Atlantic, I’ve noticed that it’s often these quieter, less celebrated places that end up being the highlights of their London experience.

If you’re planning to explore these spots (and I really hope you do), consider visiting them in the morning before touring Westminster Abbey proper. That way, you’ll better appreciate how these smaller venues fit into Westminster’s grand historical puzzle. And here’s one final tip from your London hotelier friend: both locations are perfect for those inevitable London rain showers, so keep them in mind as elegant refuges on drizzly days!

Remember, the best London experiences often happen when you step just a few feet away from the tourist trail. These two historical gems prove that sometimes, the most memorable moments await in the places where most tourists aren’t looking.

Got questions about these or other hidden Westminster spots? Feel free to drop them in the comments below, or send me a message through our contact page. After all, sharing London’s secrets is what I love most about being your host in this magnificent city.