London is one of the most visited cities in the world, with 30 million people arriving in the capital every year.
While many flock to the classic sites of Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace and Big Ben, there are some great hidden gems scattered around that can make you feel like you’ve been transported back in time while missing out on the chaos of the crowds.
Recently discovered by travel influencer Alex Zouaghi on TikTok, this quaint street, only slightly off the beaten path, has left him shocked that more people aren’t talking about it.
In the video that has gathered thousands of views on social media, he said: “ I can’t believe that people still come to London and miss places like these.
“We’re only one stop away from Kings Cross Station, and believe it or not, this little corner of London is always missed by tourists.”
He added: “The pub scene here is incredible, and don’t even get me started on the bakeries and the coffee shops.
“If you love shopping second-hand or for antiques, then this is the place for you. But more importantly, look at how pretty this part of London is.”
The hidden gem in question? Camden Passage in Angel. Located between Angel and Islington, this spot is a very brief four-minute walk from the London Underground where you’ll find the old weaving streets of the passage.
The streets date back almost 300 years, when it was first built, as an alley, along the backs of houses on Upper Street, then Islington High Street, in 1767.
For seven decades since the 1950s, the street has been named alongside Portobello, Kensington Church Street and Spitalfields as one of London’s best places for antique shopping.
Weaved in between the historic antiques, you’ll find plenty of independent boutiques, cafes, bakeries and everything in between.
It’s not just Alex raving about the street; visitors have been quick to pour in positive reviews of the ancient streets. One happy tourist posting to Google Reviews said: “It’s the ideal spot to visit on a sunny day, with plenty of charming local shops and cosy coffee houses.
“Our go-to routine is to start with breakfast at The Breakfast Club, pick up a pastry from Buns From Home, and then check through some antique finds. That’s what we call the perfect weekend.”
Another left a five-star review posted: “Very quaint little passage with lots of authentic shops and cafes. A real hidden gem where you can get away from the hustle and bustle of London.”
Although one visitor found its name slightly misleading, thinking it would be just around the corner from the infinitely popular Camden Market, which is instead a fair 50-minute walk away.
She posted: “Really nice area. I liked it a lot. You can enjoy your time to have a look and touch the things you like and want to buy.
“I would like to visit it again. By the way, the name is quite confusing for foreigners. It’s not next to Camden market!”