9 pretty unusual things to do in London

Let us lead you on a path less trodden that will etch a memory hardly expected of the Big Smoke. Some of the unusual things to do in London we suggest may seem a little challenging if not dangerous but all share a common trait of being fun.

By JAY KAY

• 1.The world’s oldest Music Hall

  Taking the words straight from the horse’s mouth, Wilton’s likes to describe itself as the world’s oldest surviving Grand Music Hall and London’s best kept secret.

  

  The mid 18th-century building started its story as an alehouse, known as The Mahogany Bar, later expanded by a simple concert room. John Wilton, who purchased the business mid 19th century, extended the space into ‘Magnificent New Music Hall’, and though much has changed between then and now, the original concept of a drinking den coupled with entertainment is still very much alive at Wilton’s.

  Come at lunch time to enjoy the establishment’s latest addition – Wilton’s Lunchtime Kitchen – serving a menu that is short and to the point.

• As soon as the kitchen closes, the shabby-chic space of Mahogany Bar opens with its offering of unusual concoctions. But if you want to stay for one of the performances, you’d better plan ahead as they tend to sell out quite early on.

  Wilton’s is located within a striking distance of Tower Hill tube station and The City.

  2.London’s largest street skate

  Every Friday and Sunday a crowd of enthusiastic skaters takes to the streets of London to experience the city in an exhilarating free-spirited way.

  You don’t have to be a proficient skater or have your own set of wheels. A number of shops such as Club Blue Room or London Skate Centre rent skates and all necessary equipment. Once fully kitted out, you’ll only need to decide whether you wish the join the faster paced Friday night skate or the leisurely afternoon Sunday Stroll. Both start very close from Hyde Park Corner tube station, just follow the skating crowd and enjoy the ride.

  This has been our favourite when exploring unusual things to do in London. We loved the friendliness of the crowd while wheeling through some of the city’s forgotten alleys and parks.

• 3.Dinner in complete darkness

  When your sight is taken away, the other senses begin to work overtime to make up for it.

  And this is what “Dans le Noir ?” – dining in the dark restaurant – banks on. This concept may be a novelty to you but it is a daily reality to the blind waiters and waitresses who guide and serve you at your table.

  Before sitting down to a meal, you’ll have to go through a little preparation in the lit bar where you’ll also choose a menu style rather than individual dishes – an idea designed to further heighten your sense of anticipation. As a result the hour and a half in the dark room is a real test to your palette and the other senses you’ll have to rely on.

  
  

  Dans le Noir ? is based in Clerkenwell, check out the website for more details and the story behind it.