I spend many hours in the bookshops along this stretch, namely Henry Pordes for second hand books and new discounted titles (pile on left of photo), as well as Koenig Books for new art books with lots of great discounts in the basement. (photo right). In 2001 the rents for much of this strip were increased to align them closer to market value but thanks to public support they were reduced again. Unfortunately some bookshops still closed down; Koenig replaced the beloved Zwemmers - a real institution - but thankfully still provide great books, although others are no longer bookshops at all.

A fantastic fresh handmade pasta shop and restaurant in Shoreditch. If you are looking for authentic Italian cooking, look no further!

This uninspiring sounding place is a disused railway line that runs along the roofline from Finsbury Park to Highgate. A great place to excerise and escape.

The finest artisan Italian ice cream in the heart of London.

Great beer selection, good food, and the big screen in their beer garden makes the Abbey Tavern my favourite place in London to watch sport