London is a treasure trove of photography opportunities, but sometimes, the best shots are found in places less well-trodden. While iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and Trafalgar Square have their allure, the city’s hidden gems often provide a more distinctive backdrop, allowing photographers to craft something original. As The Location Guys, we pride ourselves on uncovering these unique spaces and making them available for your next shoot.
Whether you’re a professional photographer, content creator, or enthusiast, here are some hidden gems across London, including exclusive spaces we represent, to inspire your next project.
Discovering London’s Hidden Photography Gems
While London’s famous landmarks are always worth a visit, there’s something magical about stepping off the beaten path. Hidden gems are where the real character of the city shines—in forgotten chapels, serene parks, and tucked-away urban retreats. These locations are ideal for fashion shoots, editorial projects, and candid moments.
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Eel Pie Island
Nestled along the Thames near Twickenham, Eel Pie Island is a secluded retreat brimming with artistic charm. This quirky spot is home to artist studios and an air of bohemian creativity. Its colourful, slightly ramshackle aesthetic offers unique textures and perspectives that are a dream for photographers.
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Postman’s Park
A small, peaceful park near St. Paul’s Cathedral, Postman’s Park is an oasis of calm in the city’s heart. The “Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice” – a tribute to ordinary people who died saving others – is a poignant and visually striking centrepiece, perfect for meaningful, contemplative shots.
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St Dunstan-in-the-East
This atmospheric garden, set within the ruins of a bombed-out church, is one of London’s most hauntingly beautiful locations. Ivy-covered walls and arches create a fairy-tale backdrop, ideal for moody, romantic compositions.
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Wilton’s Music Hall
Wilton’s, the world’s oldest surviving music hall, offers a weathered, atmospheric charm that’s hard to find elsewhere. Its historic interiors are a texture and detail treasure trove, making it a perfect setting for editorial or period-style shoots.
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Little Venice
Head to Little Venice, a picturesque area of canals and colourful houseboats near Paddington, for a more tranquil vibe. The peaceful atmosphere and reflections on the water create stunning opportunities for serene, painterly photographs.
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Morden Hall Park
A National Trust property, Morden Hall Park in South London combines historic architecture with lush greenery. Its bridges, old mills, and well-maintained grounds provide various settings for pastoral, storybook-style photography.
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Leake Street Arches
Just steps from Waterloo Station, Leake Street Arches is a graffiti-covered tunnel alive with colour and urban energy. Constantly evolving with new street art, this vibrant location is a must for edgy, modern photography.
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God’s Own Junkyard
God’s Own Junkyard is a neon wonderland in Walthamstow filled with vintage signs and glowing art installations. Perfect for bold, eclectic shoots, this location offers endless creative potential.
Exclusive Hidden Photography Gems with The Location Guys
In addition to public spaces, we offer access to exclusive, private locations across London. These curated spaces range from contemporary homes to historic properties, providing backdrops combining functionality and stunning aesthetics.
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Melford House
With its retro furnishings and leafy garden, this large period home is a versatile gem. The juxtaposition of vintage interiors with a modern extension creates dynamic contrasts that elevate any shoot.
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Forest Hill Depot
Forest Hill Depot offers a mix of a 19th-century chapel and a contemporary warehouse for an industrial vibe. Each space delivers unique textures, from exposed brickwork to sleek, modern finishes, making it ideal for creative shoots.
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Bamboo Lodge
This hidden tropical oasis in Sydenham combines clean, minimalist interiors with lush gardens. Bamboo Lodge is particularly suited to fashion or lifestyle shoots, with every room offering seamless indoor-outdoor transitions.
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Tavistock Works
A Scandinavian-inspired property in a secluded mews, Tavistock Works, features rustic stone floors, exposed beams, and a beautifully lit daylight studio. Its versatility makes it a favourite for editorial and portrait photography.
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Cedar
A Grade II-listed period house in Kingston upon Thames, Cedar combines grandeur and intimacy. With landscaped gardens and opulent interiors, it’s perfect for classic and contemporary themes.
Photographing in hidden gems lets you stand out in a city with well-known landmarks. These lesser-explored locations offer originality, tranquillity, and a more personalised experience. They also invite a deeper connection to the scene, allowing your creativity to thrive without the distractions of bustling crowds.
Find Your Next Hidden Gem
London’s hidden gems offer endless inspiration, whether you’re shooting for a campaign, building your portfolio, or simply indulging your passion for photography. At The Location Guys, we make it easy to find private photography locations in London that fit your creative needs.
Explore our exclusive location library or discover something new in the city’s tucked-away corners. Whichever path you choose, your next unforgettable shot is just around the corner.
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