An obvious choice but no 'best of London' list is complete without the Barbican

I can't pass without dropping in, Orcs Nest is a small independent boardgame, D&D etc store that's been around forever(1987)... and has the best logo. Good selection of games for younger kids too.

The Barbican is worth visiting for it's brutalist architecture alone. The concert programming is really diverse; it's home to the BBC Syphony Orchestra, but you'll also find bands like the Dirty Projectors and the National amongst the classical and contemporary composer line up. Plenty of art, dance and theatre too, however, the Conservatory is the real gem that's not to be missed.

Beautiful gallery just off Bermondsey St, I've never been disappointed by what I've seen at White Cube

Quiet outdoor garden with bar and pizza meters away from the busy and vibrant Dalston main roads.