Full of fine books, nice owner and his beautiful mellow dog. If you like digging for books on most subjects you can strike lucky here.

A winding side street that links hectic Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road, Hanway Street, with its odd mix of old-style Spanish flamenco bars and second-hand vinyl stores, is a bit of an anomaly. I’ll be surprised if they all withstand the Tottenham Court Road redevelopment but I hope they do.

Beautiful architecture and setting, ideal place for catching the latest art-house flick or to enjoy evening tea and a journal session. Friendly staff, ambient atmosphere and a wonderful crowd.

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.

Sager & Wilde is a small wine bar on Hackney Road, close to many other amazing places on Hackney and Columbia Road. The perfect place for an aperitif or a nightcap.