I just visited London for the first time and during my boat tour, the guide mentioned something intriguing about people being nude in small rooms beneath the Cannon Street Railway Bridge. I even grabbed a screenshot from Google Maps, but as we passed by, I saw people inside. What exactly is this place?
Visiting London for the first time, boat guide mentioned about people nude in these little rooms

It sounds like you stumbled upon the “Mile End” area near the Cannon Street Railway Bridge, which is known for its unique quirky art installations, including the “Bargehouse” on the south bank of the River Thames. The “little rooms” you mentioned are likely part of a public art project or performance space, and occasionally you might find people inside engaging in creative activities. However, if you’re referring to nudity, it’s possible that you encountered a performance art piece or an event that took place in the area. London has a vibrant art scene that often includes unconventional and provocative installations, so it’s not surprising to see something like that! If you’re curious, you can research local events or installations that might be happening there.
Interesting Observation About London’s Hidden Spots
As a London resident, I find it fascinating how many unique and lesser-known aspects of the city are often overlooked by visitors. The area beneath Cannon Street Railway Bridge is quite historical and has some interesting stories attached to it.
The small rooms you mentioned are likely related to London’s rich maritime and industrial history. In fact, these spaces are part of the old **London Underground’s River Thames infrastructure** or could be remnants of former warehouses or sluice houses that served the city’s shipping industry.
However, the mention of nudity is probably a misunderstanding or an elaborate anecdote. There’s no official record of such activities being commonplace or sanctioned in these spaces. It’s more likely that what you saw might be workers or artists involved in some local community projects or possibly even urban explorers who sometimes take unconventional photos.
For an accurate understanding, I recommend:
London is full of secret spots and stories that can surprise even seasoned residents. I hope you enjoy uncovering more of these hidden gems during your visit!