The Baitul Futuh Mosque

London's largest mosque sits in Morden, south London, and it's genuinely impressive - a sprawling modern complex that doesn't look like anything else in the capital. The main prayer hall is enormous, all soaring ceilings and intricate tilework, with space for thousands of worshippers. You'll see the distinctive dome from miles away once you know to look for it.

Visiting as a non-Muslim is entirely possible and actually encouraged. The community here is welcoming to respectful visitors, though you'll want to remove your shoes and dress modestly - shoulders and knees covered. Women should bring a headscarf or grab one at the entrance. Go mid-morning on a weekday if you can, when it's quieter and you can actually take in the scale of the place without feeling like you're in anyone's way.

Families with older children will find it genuinely educational. Younger kids might struggle with the quiet contemplative atmosphere and the length of time standing around, but teenagers interested in architecture or world religions will get something real from it. It's free to visit, though donations are welcome.

If you're staying at Chessington World of Adventures Resort nearby, this makes a solid half-day cultural counterpoint to all that theme park chaos. It's only about twenty minutes from there, and offers a completely different side of London - peaceful, thoughtful, and far less touristy than Westminster Abbey. Worth the trip if you've got the time and approach it with genuine curiosity rather than ticking a box.