A very charming little shop with an amazing selection of spices, herbs and grains all stored in glass jars NO PLASTIC! :) You can also buy just the jars if you want to, they are really nice too. Finally a zero waste grocery store in the area. Thank you Charles!!

Classic, wood-panelled boozer with banquettes and bar stools, plus a pool table. Situated close to Goldsmiths, University of London. Vibe: Art School meets Football Fan meets Mark E Smith.

It's a members-only library but you might be granted access with a research request. The writer's room is great but there's a few special, hidden corners among the bookshelves to tuck yourself away in.

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

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