I’ve always been very fond of the ICA and its maverick spirit, less so in the latter part of this decade. These days the place is magnetic. To feel this incredible and unique place for arts and expression, breathing, breathing invigoratively, is rewarding to a London dweller or/and visitor. Its incredible transformation, revived from near death by Stefan Kalmár, is felt as soon as you enter the space, it feels open and alive, with vibrant and human energy in staff and visitors; risky, independent, engaging, resounding, and topical to our times programming, which is focused on breaking barriers in imagination an intellect rather than visitor record numbers. It is a breath of fresh air and an example what London art institutions are capable of if they open themselves to welcoming in an outsider and their passionate vision. And they have the best membership in town!   

One or two screenings a day, a few days a week; less is more at Close Up. The library is a great resource too, for work or pleasure.

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

A great place for an informal lunch or dinner while in East London. It’s one of Nuno Mendes’ projects and it is housed in the impressive Town Hall at Bethnal Green. We filmed with Mendes in his kitchen when the restaurant first launched.

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