This is an amazing place for the summer when the water gets pretty warm or the winter if you are very brave. The only downside is that it can get very crowded in the Mixed pool but the men’s pool is normally quiet and it has a diving board.

Go check out this very untypical gallery in the underground. You don't need a ticket and it does only take you a second to soak in the art displayed.

The Thames is not traditionally the prettiest river but it has its moments. Here it is turning pink in a sunset this summer. Its the reason the city is here and I like how in moments of real importance it rises to the occasion. For the golden Jubilee the queen floated down it with hundreds of boats, it was an amazing sight, like vikings setting out for battle. Good river spots - North Bank Savoy Gardens, Royal Festival Hall.

'The People's Supermarket' offers an alternative to the conventional supermarket chains and focuses on community and local farming. Offering high quality, healthy food at reasonable prices and providing British produce where possible 'The People's Supermarket' highlights the possibilities of consumer power. Become a member and you will be entitled to an ownership stake in the store, which means you have a say in what they do. Membership also entitles you to a 10% discount on all purchases in the shop.

Lots of traditional charming country pubs around the area, but it can a bit hit and miss. A really friendly one with amazing food (and a unusually large veggie selection…) is the Beehive in Epping Green; close to the Great Wood. It's friendly enough you dare going there by yourself with the paper and are not at the mercy of local rubbernecks ("the rubberneck" = person who stares at strangers without any sign of guilt)