After a long week of work, it’s finally the weekend and you can’t wait to have some fun and explore the city. But, maybe instead of going down the conventional route, you fancy doing something different. So why not think outside the box? With London being such a big and diverse city with so many things to do, a lot of people barely scratch below the surface of the weird, wacky attractions out there. So with that being said, here’s a list of 10 quirky things in London this weekend.

1. See inside the world of an artist at the Leighton House

Based in the Holland Park area of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, this artistic hub was originally constructed to showcase Lord Frederic Leighton’s eccentric art collection.

Without the constraints of family or finances, Frederic, Lord Leighton constructed his ‘private palace of art,’ it served as a residence, a studio, and an architectural representation of his artistic vision.

Architect George Aitchison worked on the home over the period of three decades, and it was still under construction when he died in 1895.

The interior of the house demonstrates Leighton’s wide-ranging admiration for Aesthetic Decor, Arts, Crafts and furniture, and Oriental.

With each room and extension signifying a different aesthetic, era or culture, this house is definitely a sight to see for classic art lovers.

2. Strike a pose in God’S Own Junkyard

If you’re looking for the perfect place to take a quirky Instagram photoshoot or brighten up your space, look no further. Based in Walthamstow is one of London’s artsy-est boroughs, this tucked-away neon-lit paradise is great for a day out.

Beyond the surface, the story behind God’s Own Junkyard is quite extraordinary. The late owner, Chris Bracey (also known as ‘Neon Man’) entered the scene by making signs for Soho’s strip clubs and brothels in the ’70s and ’80s. After seeing his immense talent, he soon began making props for acquired Hollywood directors such as Stanley Kubrick, Tim Burton, and Christopher Nolan.

Although, film props aren’t the only things displayed in this shining warehouse. From Disco balls and retro signs to religious statues – you name it! – This place has it all (neon-light related of course). This place has so much to offer they even have an on-site cafe – you can easily spend hours peeking around God’s Own Junkyard.

And these bright lights aren’t just eye-candy. You can also purchase as well as rent them – although they can be a bit on the pricey side of things.

So what are you waiting for? Try this light warehouse on for size and tell us how it went. We guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

3. Peek around London’s Abandoned Underground Stations

The good samaritans from the London transport museum are hosting all-exclusive private tours of London’s abandoned Tube Stations. Uncover the mysteries of these once-bustling and glance deeper into some of London’s forgotten history.

Explore the mile of deep-level bomb shelters beneath Clapham South station, or explore Euston’s “hidden tunnels,” a maze of dark and dusty passages.

The tour of Down Street station, which housed Winston Churchill and his War Cabinet during WWII, is equally thrilling.

This time around, you may also have a look around Piccadilly Circus, a stroll through Moorgate, and a cruise through Charing Cross, which you may recognise from many film and television appearances.

4. Step into your favourite film at London’s Secret Cinema

Step into your favourite film and become a part of the cast. The immersive experience, which combines cinema, drama, art, music, and dance, allows you to become a part of the film, with amazing sets in secret places throughout London. Moulin Rouge, Star Wars, and Ghostbusters are among the films that have been brought to life in the past.

Viewed in a secret location, be the first in line to watch Bridgerton for February of 2022.

5. Whisk away to Platform 9 3/4 in Kings Cross Station

Calling all Potter Fans! That’s right, King’s Cross Station has actually paid tribute to the beloved fan cult classic series Harry Potter, bringing a little bit of Hogwarts closer to home.

Look for a baggage trolley embedded in the wall and imagine you’re about to embark on your magical school adventure. You may use the trolley at any time, and you don’t have to pay to take your own photos.

Why not go all out and have a professional photoshoot with a scarf in your house colours, which you can then view and buy in the Harry Potter shop next door? The professional photographer is available from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day.

During school holidays and Christmas times, lines for the trolley can grow long; arrive early to ensure you’re one of the first in line!

And whilst you’re at it, pop over to Harry Potter Shop, styled to resemble Olivander’s wand emporium. You can find Time turners, Horcruxes, and games, as well as Hogwarts school jumpers in house colours and even entire sets of robes. An absolute must for any Harry Potter fan.