Great selection of books and magazine with a big focus on rare. out-of-print books Japanese photography. Can sends hours in this little shop. I'd try to avoid on Market day (Saturday) if you want to have a good look as it can get a bit busy for such a small space.

I vaguely thought about leaving London recently and the British Library came to mind as somewhere I’d miss. It’s an essential resource because it has almost everything. It also has some interesting exhibitions.

Not long in the custody of the National Trust, designed by Philip Webb and commissioned by William Morris, in 1859. Tucked away in Beckenham. William and Jane Morris only lived here for five years; not a happy time of their marriage. But there is humility, authority and even bite, in the domestic scale. The rigorous, holistic design-hand at work belies any sense of souvenir shop Morris-lite. The vegetable garden in late Summer is the place to be.

Whipps Cross boating lake is a true hidden East end gem. Located on Whipps Cross flats midway between Walthamstow and Wanstead.

The UK's only cinema dedicated to documentaries. Really interesting programme of screenings, events and talks.