New research has found that 78% of Londoners have never visited some of the city's most famous landmarks.

It comes as a poll of 1,000 residents found that Highgate Cemetery, The Sky Garden and Piccadilly Circus are the top three sights Londoners have never seen.

Whilst a surprising 14% have never seen Big Ben in real life, as well as Wembley Stadium, Notting Hill and Kensington Palace.

Three-quarters prefer to stick to the area they know best, while 46% are put off by the idea of wading through tourists.

Ilford Recorder: Have you ever seen Big Ben?Have you ever seen Big Ben? (Image: Canva)

Research finds Londoners have never visited famous landmarks

The research was commissioned by Specsavers, whose Ophthalmic Director, Rakesh Kapoor said: “There’s so many sights to see in London, but it’s interesting to learn how many locals haven’t had a good look at those on their doorstep.

“There’s a real passion for the capital from locals in the research and there’s definitely a feeling that sights like an empty underground carriage give as much, or even more of a buzz as seeing an iconic landmark!

“With so much to see and do, it’s those little things that really give the edge to London as a magical city and it’s clear why there’s such pride here.”

It also emerged that 71% of Londoners say it’s the little things in the capital they love most above the big showy sights, including the underground, green parks and open spaces as well as the food scene.

The top 30 landmarks Londoners have never seen

Locals also reckoned if you didn’t live in London itself, you’d need to take more than eight trips in order to cover the best it has to offer.

Some of the sights Londoners love to see include the local boozer, the city decorated at Christmas time and local food markets.

Other unusual experiences Londoners would like to try in the capital include visiting a farm, taking the world’s longest tunnel slide and paddleboarding along the Thames.

Rakesh Kapoor, Ophthalmic Director from Specsavers, added: “There’s so many sights and sounds to take in with a ‘world’ city like London, it really is like no other.

“While many might not like the idea of wading through tourists at popular hotspots, there’s definitely an appetite to enjoy some of the more unexpected activities and hidden gems that make the city so unique.”