If you’re considering a city break in Britain’s capital this summer, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to picking things to do. The wealth of activities and events means that you’ll never be at a loose end and you can even treat yourself to a stay in a luxury boutique hotel like those available from Chic Retreats. If you’re interested in avoiding the major tourist traps, it’s definitely worth looking into the more unusual attractions that London has to offer. They may not be as well-known, but you’ll avoid the crowds and have a holiday to remember.

The Cat Café

Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium is London’s very first Cat Café. The idea of a relaxation space where urban-dwellers can pet and play with animals is common in Japan and the same premise has been replicated in London. Café visitors pay a £5 entrance fee that allows them two hours with the cats. The space is modelled as an old English tea room, with adjacent rooms where patrons can simply play with the cats and the cats can play and sleep.

St Katherine Docks

Take the tube to Tower Hill and discover one of London’s best kept secrets. St. Katherine Docks are usually bypassed by tourists on their way to the Tower of London, but this pocket of tranquillity gives a view of the main marina and the city’s collection of luxury yacht moorings.

Temple Church

Those interested in history and theology shouldn’t miss the 12th century Temple Church. It was built by the Knights Templar and was featured in Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code. The architecture was constructed to resemble Jerusalem’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre and is known for its effigy tombs and circular nave.

Primrose Hill

For some of the best scenic views in London, you should visit Primrose Hill. This green space is located on the north side of Regent’s Park and is the perfect spot for a picnic, particularly in the summer. You will be treated to uninterrupted views of central London and this space should be much less busy than better known greens like Hyde Park. Below Primrose Hill, in Queen Mary’s Gardens in Regent’s Park is home to one of the world’s finest floral displays.

London Wetland Centre

Bird-lovers will be pleased to know that London has its own Wetland Centre, which covers more than 100 acres of land, previously occupied by several small reservoirs. It is home to sparrow-hawks, bats, great crested grebes and ring-necked parakeets among others, and there are plenty of activities appropriate for children.

Bird-lovers will be pleased to know that London has its own Wetland Centre, which covers more than 100 acres of land, previously occupied by several small reservoirs. It is home to sparrow-hawks, bats, great crested grebes and ring-necked parakeets among others, and there are plenty of activities appropriate for children.

Don’t forget about the “normal” tourist attractions in London as well!