top of page

10 BEST places to visit in London in March

March is a fantastic time to explore London, as the city begins to wake up from winter and signs of spring start to appear.


With longer days, milder temperatures, and fewer crowds than summer, it’s the perfect month for sightseeing, outdoor walks, and cultural experiences.


Whether you want to stroll through blooming parks, visit world-famous landmarks, or discover hidden gems, there’s something for everyone. From iconic attractions to seasonal events, London in March offers a mix of history, nature, and entertainment.


In this guide, we’ll take you through the 10 best places to visit in London in March, helping you make the most of the city as it transforms into spring.


Image of Benone Strand, County Londonderry
Image credit: Photo © David Dixon (cc-by-sa/2.0)


1) The Old Operating Theatre Museum


The Old Operating Theatre Museum, hidden in the attic of St. Thomas' Church, is one of London’s most fascinating and eerie historic sites.


Dating back to the 19th century, this unique museum was once part of St. Thomas’ Hospital, where medical students watched surgeries performed without anaesthetic or modern tools.


The museum is filled with Victorian medical instruments, apothecary jars, and detailed displays on the history of surgery and medicine. March is a great time to visit because the cooler weather and quieter crowds allow you to fully explore the creaky wooden attic, dimly lit exhibits, and fascinating historical displays at your own pace.


The old wooden operating table, surrounded by steep spectator seating, gives visitors a chilling look into how surgeries were performed before modern medicine.


FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Old Operating Theatre Museum


1. Is The Old Operating Theatre Museum open in March?

Yes! The museum is open in March, and this is a great time to visit, as there are fewer crowds, allowing for a more immersive experience.


2. What makes The Old Operating Theatre Museum unique?

It’s one of the oldest surviving surgical theatres in Europe, giving visitors a rare look at Victorian-era medicine and surgery in an authentic historic setting.


3. Is The Old Operating Theatre Museum spooky?

A little! The dim lighting, old wooden interior, and historic medical tools create a slightly eerie atmosphere, but it’s a fascinating and educational experience rather than a haunted one!


Image of The Old Operating Theatre Museum
Image credit: Photo © N Chadwick (cc-by-sa/2.0)

2) Phoenix Garden


Phoenix Garden, tucked away near Covent Garden, is a peaceful hidden oasis in the heart of London’s busy West End.


This beautiful community garden is filled with wildflowers, ponds, and winding pathways, offering a quiet escape from the city’s noise. March is a fantastic time to visit because the first signs of spring begin to appear, with daffodils, crocuses, and early blossoms bringing colour back to the garden.


The fresh, crisp air and gentle birdsong create a relaxing atmosphere, making it a perfect place to sit, read, or simply enjoy nature.


Unlike London’s larger parks, Phoenix Garden is small and intimate, making it feel like a secret sanctuary. With fewer visitors in March, you can enjoy the space in peace, watching bees and butterflies return as the weather warms up.


FAQs/Things to know when visiting Phoenix Garden


1. Is Phoenix Garden free to visit in March?

Yes! Phoenix Garden is completely free and open to the public, making it a great place to enjoy spring flowers and peaceful greenery without spending a penny.


2. What flowers bloom in Phoenix Garden in March?

In March, you can see daffodils, crocuses, and early blossoms starting to appear, adding a splash of colour to the garden.


3. Is Phoenix Garden busy in March?

No, March is a quieter time to visit, meaning you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere without too many other people around.


Image of Phoenix Garden
Image credit: Photo © Basher Eyre (cc-by-sa/2.0)

3) The Brunel Museum & Tunnel Shaft


The Brunel Museum & Tunnel Shaft, located in Rotherhithe, is a fascinating hidden gem that tells the story of one of London’s greatest engineering achievements.


The museum is dedicated to Marc and Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the legendary engineers behind the world’s first underwater tunnel, built beneath the River Thames in the 19th century.


Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, historic artefacts, and detailed models that bring the Brunels' incredible work to life. March is a great time to visit because the cool underground air makes the museum’s tunnel shaft feel even more atmospheric, and with fewer crowds, you can fully take in the history at your own pace.


One of the highlights is the huge underground chamber, originally built as a grand entrance hall for the tunnel, which now hosts special events, concerts, and performances. The museum also offers guided tours where you can learn about the challenges of building the tunnel and how it changed London’s transport forever.


FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Brunel Museum & Tunnel Shaft


1. Is The Brunel Museum & Tunnel Shaft open in March?

Yes! The museum is open in March, and this is a great time to visit as it's less busy, allowing you to explore the exhibits and tunnel shaft in peace.


2. What makes The Brunel Museum special?

It tells the story of the world’s first underwater tunnel, built by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, and offers a rare chance to explore a historic underground chamber.


3. Is it cold inside the tunnel shaft in March?

Yes, the underground space stays cool year-round, so it’s a good idea to bring a jacket, especially in early spring.


Image of The Brunel Museum & Tunnel Shaft
Image credit: Photo © Stephen Craven (cc-by-sa/2.0)


4) Middle Temple Gardens


Middle Temple Gardens, tucked away in London’s historic legal district, is a beautiful hidden oasis that feels like stepping back in time.


Surrounded by centuries-old buildings, these peaceful riverside gardens have been a retreat for lawyers and writers for hundreds of years. March is a wonderful time to visit because the first signs of spring begin to appear, with daffodils, crocuses, and early blossoms adding bursts of colour to the neatly kept lawns.


The gardens, located near the River Thames, offer stunning views, making them a perfect place to relax, read, or take a quiet walk away from the city crowds. The history of Middle Temple dates back to the medieval period, and the gardens themselves have links to Shakespeare, who is said to have performed Twelfth Night here.


With fewer visitors in March, you can soak in the historic charm and peaceful atmosphere without the usual hustle and bustle.


FAQs/Things to know when visiting Middle Temple Gardens


1. Are Middle Temple Gardens open to the public in March?

Yes! The gardens are open to visitors during weekday lunchtimes, making March a great time to enjoy them as spring flowers begin to bloom.


2. What flowers can I see in Middle Temple Gardens in March?

You’ll find daffodils, crocuses, and early cherry blossoms, bringing bright colours to the historic setting.


3. Is Middle Temple Gardens busy in March?

No, March is a quieter time to visit, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take in the historic beauty of the gardens.


Image of Middle Temple Gardens
Image credit: Photo © Danny P Robinson (cc-by-sa/2.0)

5) The Fitzrovia Chapel


The Fitzrovia Chapel, hidden in the heart of central London, is a breathtaking gothic-style chapel that feels like a secret treasure.


Once part of the old Middlesex Hospital, this beautifully restored chapel is now a peaceful space for reflection, art exhibitions, and small events.


The interior is truly stunning, with golden mosaics, marble columns, and intricate stained-glass windows that shine in the soft light. March is a fantastic time to visit, as the quiet atmosphere allows you to fully appreciate the calm and beauty of this hidden gem.


With fewer visitors than larger London churches, you can take your time admiring the incredible craftsmanship and history of the building. The chapel often hosts art displays and cultural events, adding a unique experience to your visit.


FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Fitzrovia Chapel


1. Is The Fitzrovia Chapel open to the public in March?

Yes! The chapel is open to visitors, but it’s best to check ahead as it sometimes hosts private events or exhibitions.


2. What makes The Fitzrovia Chapel special?

Its golden mosaic interior, gothic architecture, and peaceful atmosphere make it one of London’s most beautiful hidden gems.


3. Is The Fitzrovia Chapel busy in March?

No, March is a quiet time to visit, making it the perfect place to appreciate the stunning details without distractions.


Image of The Fitzrovia Chapel
Image credit: Photo © Robert Lamb (cc-by-sa/2.0)

6) Sir John Soane’s Museum


Sir John Soane’s Museum, located in Lincoln’s Inn Fields, is one of London’s most fascinating hidden treasures.


Once the home of Sir John Soane, a famous 19th-century architect, this museum is unlike any other, filled with ancient artefacts, paintings, sculptures, and quirky collections. Every room is packed with unexpected surprises, from an Egyptian sarcophagus to secret mirrors that reflect candlelight in magical ways.


March is a fantastic time to visit, as the cool weather and smaller crowds make it easier to explore the narrow hallways and intricate displays without feeling rushed.


The museum has a warm, atmospheric feel, perfect for a quiet afternoon escape into history and art. One of the best things about this museum is that it has been left exactly as Soane designed it, making it feel like stepping back in time.


FAQs/Things to know when visiting Sir John Soane’s Museum


1. Is Sir John Soane’s Museum free to visit in March?

Yes! Entry to the museum is free, but booking in advance is recommended as it’s a small space with limited capacity.


2. What makes Sir John Soane’s Museum unique?

The museum is exactly as Soane left it, filled with hidden treasures, secret mirrors, and unusual collections, making it one of London’s most eccentric museums.


3. Is March a good time to visit Sir John Soane’s Museum?

Yes! March is quieter than peak tourist months, so you can take your time exploring without the crowds.


Image of Sir John Soane’s Museum
Image credit: Photo © Sarah Smith (cc-by-sa/2.0)


7) Hampstead Ponds


Hampstead Ponds, nestled within Hampstead Heath, offer a peaceful escape from the busy streets of London.


These historic swimming and wildlife ponds, surrounded by rolling hills and ancient woodlands, feel like a slice of the countryside in the middle of the city. March is a fantastic time to visit because the first signs of spring begin to appear, with daffodils blooming, trees budding, and birds returning to the water.


The cool, crisp air makes it a perfect spot for a refreshing walk around the ponds, taking in the reflections of the sky and trees on the water’s surface. For those brave enough, the Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed Bathing Ponds are open year-round, offering a chilly but invigorating wild swimming experience.


With fewer visitors than in the summer months, you can enjoy the tranquillity of nature, watch ducks and swans glide across the water


FAQs/Things to know when visiting Hampstead Ponds


1. Can you swim in Hampstead Ponds in March?

Yes! The ponds are open for cold-water swimming, but the water is very cold, so it's best for those used to wild swimming.


2. What wildlife can you see at Hampstead Ponds in March?

March is a great time to spot ducks, swans, and herons, as well as songbirds returning to the trees as spring approaches.


3. Is Hampstead Heath busy in March?

No, March is a quieter time to visit, meaning you can enjoy a peaceful walk or swim without the summer crowds.


Image of Hampstead Ponds
Image credit: Photo © Stephen McKay (cc-by-sa/2.0)

8) God’s Own Junkyard


God’s Own Junkyard, tucked away in Walthamstow, is a neon wonderland filled with vibrant lights, vintage signs, and retro artwork.


This hidden gem is the creation of Chris Bracey, a neon artist who designed signs for Hollywood films, Soho clubs, and rock ‘n’ roll legends. The space is packed with colourful glowing signs, quirky sculptures, and one-of-a-kind artwork, making it feel like a magical, electric dreamland.


March is a fantastic time to visit because the indoor space is warm and cosy, making it a great escape from chilly spring weather. The bright neon lights create a cheerful, uplifting atmosphere, perfect for taking incredible photos, exploring unique designs, or just soaking in the artistic energy.


There's even a café inside, so you can relax with a drink while surrounded by the glow of hundreds of neon creations.


FAQs/Things to know when visiting God’s Own Junkyard


1. Is God’s Own Junkyard open in March?

Yes! It’s open on weekends, making March a great time to visit for a warm, colourful escape from the cold.


2. Is God’s Own Junkyard free to visit?

Yes! Entry is free, so you can explore the neon lights and artwork at your own pace.


3. Can I take photos at God’s Own Junkyard?

Yes! Photography is allowed, and the neon lights make it one of the most Instagrammable spots in London.


9) The Hidden Rooftop of One New Change


The Hidden Rooftop of One New Change, located in the heart of London’s financial district, offers one of the best free panoramic views of the city.


Sitting atop the One New Change shopping centre, this little-known rooftop terrace provides a stunning, up-close view of St. Paul’s Cathedral, as well as a breathtaking skyline stretching across The Shard, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge.


March is a fantastic time to visit because the cool, crisp air keeps the skies clear, making for amazing photos and uninterrupted views. Unlike many of London’s other rooftop spots, this terrace is completely free to access, and with fewer visitors in March, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere without the crowds.


The open-air space makes it a great spot to relax, take in the city, or watch the sunset over London’s iconic landmarks.


FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Hidden Rooftop of One New Change


1. Is the One New Change rooftop free to visit?

Yes! The rooftop terrace is completely free, making it one of the best budget-friendly places for a great London view.


2. What makes March a good time to visit the rooftop?

March offers clear, cool skies, making it perfect for photography, sightseeing, and enjoying peaceful panoramic views without the summer crowds.


3. What can I see from the One New Change rooftop?

The terrace provides an incredible close-up view of St. Paul’s Cathedral, as well as The Shard, the London Eye, and other famous London landmarks.



10) St. Martin-in-the-Fields Crypt Café


St. Martin-in-the-Fields Crypt Café, located beneath the historic St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church in Trafalgar Square, is one of London’s most unique places to eat and relax.


This hidden café, set in an 18th-century crypt, offers a cosy atmosphere where you can enjoy coffee, cakes, and traditional British meals surrounded by centuries-old brick vaults and historic gravestones.


March is a fantastic time to visit because the warm, underground setting provides a welcoming escape from London’s chilly spring weather. With soft lighting and peaceful surroundings, it’s a great place to take a break after sightseeing, listen to live classical music, or simply soak up the history of this fascinating space.


The crypt is also home to a small but interesting museum, where you can learn about the church’s past and its connection to London’s history.


FAQs/Things to know when visiting St. Martin-in-the-Fields Crypt Café


1. Is St. Martin-in-the-Fields Crypt Café open in March?

Yes! The café is open year-round, making March a great time to visit for a warm and relaxing break underground.


2. What makes the Crypt Café special?

It’s a café inside a historic crypt, where you can enjoy food and drinks surrounded by centuries-old architecture and history.


3. Is the Crypt Café a good place to visit on a cold March day?

Yes! Since it’s underground, it’s a cosy and warm escape from the cool spring weather outside.


Image of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Crypt Café
Image credit: Photo © John Salmon (cc-by-sa/2.0)

There you have it! These are 10 of the best places located in London to visit in March, which are perfect for an adventure! Whether you plan to do a road trip in and around London or are visiting for a long weekend in March, you should definitely check out some of these places.


Download the official APP!


Gain access to over 1,600 hidden gems and their co-ordinates all over the UK when you download our app. Add gems to your bucket-list and tick them off as you go along, as well as earn rewards/badges when you visit a certain amount.




 
 
 

Comments


Logo RGB_White_Stacked.png

Download the app

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get all the latest updates regarding hidden gems and staycations plus much more!

Thanks for subscribing!

Cookie Policy

Connect with us

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Youtube
  • TikTok
bottom of page