A place that really grows on you, with each visit the Barbican reveals more of itself to you and your bond is tightened. The Barbican Kitchen is great for coffee or lunch, summer hangouts by the ponds, cinema in winter, the amazing Barbican Hall for live music, and don't miss the conservatory.
I am definitely not precious about the materials I use to make my work, but every so often I find myself in need of something more specialised. L.Cornelissen & Son is a beautiful and well stocked art supply shop with extremely knowledgable staff.