SECRET

LONDON

The Painted Hall
Location - Old Royal Naval College, London SE10 9NN

The Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich is one of London's baroque masterpieces, often referred to as the 'Sistine Chapel of the UK'. This magnificent dining hall, designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Nicholas Hawksmoor, is adorned with breathtaking ceiling and wall murals by James Thornhill, completed over 19 years. The paintings celebrate England's naval power and cultural ascendancy in the early 18th century. A visit to the Painted Hall is a journey through art, history, and architecture, offering an awe-inspiring experience of one of London's grandest interiors.

The V&A Library
Location - Cromwell Rd, London SW7 2RL

The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) Library in London is a treasure trove of art and design literature, reflecting the museum's commitment to the study and preservation of decorative arts and design. As one of the UK's leading research libraries in these fields, it houses an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, drawings, and prints related to a wide array of disciplines including fashion, photography, sculpture, and more. This vast resource supports academic research and provides inspiration for designers, scholars, and enthusiasts alike. The library's elegant reading rooms offer a serene environment for study, surrounded by the rich history and culture embodied in its collections.

St Pancras Renaissance Hotel
Location - Euston Rd., London NW1 2AR

The St Pancras Renaissance Hotel in London stands as a Victorian masterpiece, blending historical grandeur with modern luxury. Originally opened in 1873 as the Midland Grand Hotel, this iconic building showcases the exuberant Gothic Revival architecture of Sir George Gilbert Scott. Situated adjacent to St Pancras International Station, it offers unrivaled access to London and beyond, including high-speed rail links to continental Europe via the Eurostar.  Following extensive restoration, the hotel reopened its doors in 2011, reviving its original splendor while incorporating contemporary amenities for its guests. The hotel features lavish rooms and suites, many with original period details, offering guests a unique blend of old-world elegance and modern comfort. The grand staircase, historically significant artworks, and ornate ceilings are among the architectural treasures that guests can admire.

Mare St Market
Location - Euston Rd., London NW1 2AR

The Market Dining Room at Mare Street Market offers a cozy dining experience with an Open Kitchen menu, nestled under the distinctive glow of Pure White Linesโ€™ chandeliers. Transforming an old council office block into a vibrant East London spot, Mare Street Market now boasts a unique mix of a record shop, florist, bakery, deli, cocktail bar, barber, tattooist, and several restaurants within its 10,000 sq ft.

For a casual meal, the Open Kitchen serves BBQ'd tamarind seabass, burnt aubergine with tahini yoghurt, rib-eye steak, and a variety of sourdough pizzas. Weekends offer hearty brunches and Sunday roasts.


Mercato Mayfair
Location - Euston Rd., London NW1 2AR

In the heart of Mayfair, the Mercato Mayfair Foodhall breathes new life into the historic St. Markโ€™s Church on North Audley Street, offering a stunning backdrop for a sustainable food haven. As a beacon of culinary excellence since its 2019 inauguration by Italian visionary Andrea Rasca, Mercato Mayfair has become a fixture in London's gastronomic scene. Following the blueprint of his Milanese success, Mercato Metropolitano, Rasca's London venture marries artisanal fare with sustainability, housed within a Grade I-listed edifice that has seen a ยฃ5 million revival to its 1820s splendour. Beyond its food market, Mercato Mayfair nurtures community spirit, hosting music and cultural events in its atmospheric basement, embodying a model of urban renewal that harmonizes history, sustainability, and culinary craft.

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Discover London's secret corners with our lovingly curated and brand new guide. The ultimate insider's guide to London, featuring over 100 of the city's hidden gems. Brimming with beautiful photography, it makes the perfect gift and is the essential companion for exploring the capital.

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