Little Venice, London
One of the most enjoyable aspects of life in a big city is that there are well-kept secrets; that’s not to say Little Venice, a secluded enclave in Maida Vale, is completely off the radar but the fact it never seems to be over run with visitors certainly adds to its appeal.
Little Venice’s central pond, which snakes off in different directions, is the junction of Regent’s Canal and the Paddington arm of Grand Union Canal, meaning that, once upon a time, it would have been absolutely heaving with barges carrying cargo west from the docks.
It’s far more sedate these days; the banks are lined with cafés – they actually know how to make coffee – and the back streets are home to several small boutique theatres. It’s one of London’s most pleasant, low-key spots.
GREAT FOR: Autumn picnics
» 4 Warwick Crescent, W2 6NE
Tube: Warwick Avenue
