Sam Barker, Author at Secret London

A Staff Writer for Secret London, Sam hails from Australia, but doesn't sound like it. He splits his time between trying out the latest coffee place or craft beer taproom, or climbing up walls covered in brightly coloured holds.

Culture Things to do

A free art trail of Frida Kahlo murals has popped up in London – with 6 enormous artworks now waiting to be found around the city

Unless you've been living under an art-world rock (it's not like other rocks, it's edgier), you're likely aware that an enormous Frida Kahlo exhibition is winging its way to London this month. 'Frida: The...

Escapes

This charming village is found right in the heart of the country’s largest surviving area of ancient pasture woodland – wild ponies, deer, and herds of cows regularly wander through the village

When discussing the UK's many charming villages, many of which are just a short journey away from London, there are a few reliable tidbits of trivia that crop up. People (ourselves at Secret London includ...

Escapes Secret Guides

These are the prettiest villages near London for a charming escape from the city – ranging from magical medieval spots to stunning seaside destinations

Much as I love living in London, I can't deny that sometimes it's important to escape the hubbub of the city and touch grass. Sure, we could escape to one of the city's many green spaces or head to a nea...

Things to do Top news

A free trail of uniquely-designed lion and lioness sculptures has popped up in Central London in support of the England football teams – with 17 artist-designed big cat sculptures waiting to be found

A lot is happening this month: England is battling through the group stages of the FIFA World Cup, Pride Month is filling the city with love, and now, a free-to-visit trail of lions and lionesses has crop...

Escapes Wellness & nature

This picturesque Medieval town is just over an hour away from London – it’s home to charming cobbled streets, fairytale buildings, and one of the UK’s most beautiful sandy beaches

If you fancy taking a trip back in time, there’s no need to hunt around for a time machine. Instead, head out for the day from London to East Sussex, where you’ll find the gloriously charming town of Rye....

Sports Top news

Everything you need to know about England’s first FIFA World Cup match tonight – who they’re playing, when the game kicks off, and more

Well, folks, it's officially here. Hot off the back of Arsenal's incredible performance last month, football fever still fills the city as the FIFA World Cup 2026™ officially kicks off. England will co...

Food & drink Top news

A much-loved South London market is returning after being closed for five years and falling into disrepair – bringing craft beer, street food, and community events and opportunities to the area

If you've visited Lewisham at all in the past five years, you've no doubt spotted the colourful padlocked doorways that guard the entrance to a mysterious area just outside the shopping centre. These door...

Food & drink Top news

One of the world’s best burger vendors is giving away 900 free burgers in London today – to celebrate England’s first match in the FIFA World Cup

There's something in the air... Can you sense it? A sense of optimism and community is filling the city as the entire country prepares for England's first fixture in the FIFA World Cup this week. And ahea...

Food & drink

This MICHELIN-approved Indian restaurant has launched a late night bar program – serving up spiced cocktails and stunning contemporary Indian food

Mayfair is home to an endless procession of restaurants that run the gamut from hype eateries to overpriced spots with underseasoned food and understated venues. Among them is BiBi, a MICHELIN-approved re...

The longest day of the year will take place this weekend – with the sun setting over London as late as 9:21 in the evening

Summer is (almost) officially here. That's because the summer solstice is just on the horizon - with the longest day of the year set to take place this weekend. On Sunday, June 21, the sun will set at 9:2...