There are very few better places to be on a summer's day than the massive beer garden at People’s Park Tavern on Victoria Park

Need some clean air or just a time-out? Kew Gardens is a short train ride away from the city centre but is provides you with space, greenery and and a small holiday for the lungs. The garden contain tropical glasshouses and interesting architecture, so it is a treat for both body and mind.

It's a members-only library but you might be granted access with a research request. The writer's room is great but there's a few special, hidden corners among the bookshelves to tuck yourself away in.

A perfect place for any occasion - or no occasion at all - every table feels like the best one.

I grew up in the countryside, and if you're ever in need some instant escape from the city, this place is like a time warp. It's a huge space full of over grown mausoleums and graves, feels like a movie set. They also do tours.