Off-the-beaten-path attractions in London/Paris

We will stay in London for 4 days and Paris for another 4 days during our upcoming trip and I am wondering if you folks have any suggestion for off-the-beaten track and/or unusual attractions, outside of the touristy stuff.

I scoured some travel sites and other forums and i have put together a small list so far. 4 days in each city is not a lot of time but hopefully we can manage and make the most out of it.

Here is what I got so far

London: Bermonsdey Antiques Market, Camden Market, Grant Museum of Zoology

Paris: Sewer (les egouts) tour, Flea/Antique market, Guided bike tours

Is there a place/an activity in either city that you wish you knew before you went on your trip?

If you are a very good rollerblader, every Friday night in Paris there is a massive group rollerblade through the city. The route changes every week and they cooperate with the police to temporarily shut down intersections as needed. But it isn't meant for beginners, as the route frequently goes over cobblestones and the group moves pretty quickly.


As well in Paris you can visit the catacombs, although I think this is becoming rather well know.

London's Camden Market is among the most visited attractions in the city so it's hardly off the beaten path. It gets so crowded there on weekends that Camden Town tube station that the entrances are barred and only allows for exiting passengers.

A little bit north of Camden is the beautiful neighbourhood of Highgate. It's accessible by Tube (nearest stations are Archway and Highgate) or bus. Lots of nice shops and pubs. Highgate Cemetery, especially the very creepy and Gothic western cemetery, is a great place to visit that many tourists overlook. Highgate is the highest (heh) point in London and the views of the city from Waterlow Park and Parliament Hill at Hampstead Heath are really nice.