A place that really grows on you, with each visit the Barbican reveals more of itself to you and your bond is tightened. The Barbican Kitchen is great for coffee or lunch, summer hangouts by the ponds, cinema in winter, the amazing Barbican Hall for live music, and don't miss the conservatory.

One of the few remaining bastions of alternative Soho, The Crobar is a metal bar which attracts a friendly crowd and serves a top selection of beer and whisky

I trust owner and director Tamsin Clark completely with what I could and should be reading.

Outside of the major players (Tate, V&A, RA) this is probably the best programmed gallery in London

An independent cinema in the heart of Kensal rise.