Barbican Conservatory
A tropical glasshouse hidden inside a Brutalist arts centre.
Fifteen hundred species of plants wrapped around the concrete of the Barbican, with terrapins in the ponds and the city visible through the glass. It is free, but it opens on limited days and entry slots need booking; check the website before you go. Pair it with the free art in the Curve gallery and a walk around the lakeside terrace.
When it works
Indoors, so the weather does not matter. Best afternoon. Free; book a slot, opening days vary.
Good for a date, going solo and locals' favourite.
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Opening hours and prices change; the official site has the current ones. See everything in London ranked for right now.