Pretty corner of London that looks more like Venice or Amsterdam

Living in a new ‘normal’ since the coronavirus pandemic means not everyone is so enthusiastic about leaving London to venture on a half term holiday aboard. Culture vultures may be gasping for a pretty change of scenery and a slice of escapism.

Charming and quirky, tranquil yet pulsing with ambience, Little Venice- positioned at the meeting of the Grand Union canal and Regent’s canal – is the not-so-secret hidden gem of North London. Directly north of Paddington, the area is positioned where the Grand Union and Regent’s canals meet and is surrounded by plenty of things to do.

The scenic neighbourhood is home to cosy pubs, restaurants and waterside cafés. It is an oasis of peace and tranquillity, perfect for a day out without having to travel out of the capital.

READ MORE: ‘I visited Little Venice for the first time and it felt like I was in a different world’

For those who want to take a trip on the water there’s dozens of narrowboats available for boat rides down the calm canal. And the backdrop is just as stunning with mansions and trees hugging the area.

For those on a budget, there’s perfect picnic spots surrounded by flowers in the nearby Rembrandt Gardens, various wildlife to spot nestled among the canals and it’s also a lovely place to explore by foot if having a city stroll is your type of thing.

Visitors can walk downstream through Maida Vale and on to Regent’s Park and Camden, or follow this placid corridor upstream towards West London. Although theatres are not yet open, there is a selection of award-winning entertainment from the Canal Café Theatre, and the Puppet Theatre Barge.

Little Venice is conveniently located less than 10 minutes from Paddington train and Tube stations, or a five minute walk from Warwick Avenue Underground station. Other Underground stations nearby include Maida Vale, Edgware Road and Royal Oak.Who needs a trip to Amsterdam or Venice when we have all of this beauty at our feet right here in London?

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