Every year I take my 25 year old mini on the London to Brighton run. The views from the start line are always worth the 4AM wake-up.

Think this may be the oldest music venue in London? If it isn't, it certainly feels like it. I love the fact that you can feel the musical history as soon as you walk into 100 Club. Given it's central positioning I'm sure a lot of people of holding their breaths that it continues to stick around

Tucked away down a cobbled alley behind Russell Square Station, The Horse Hospital, a converted stable, is a unique and totally independent arts space specialising in underground and experimental media. The gallery space itself (known as The Chamber of Pop Culture) houses unusual exhibitions, film screenings and other events.

An intimate live music venue in Dalston with lots of underground and experimental music you won't find anywhere else in London.

Getting lost is an age old suggestion but a good one. Put away your cell phone or your A-Z and just wander around. I still do this regularly even though Ive lived here for nearly 10 years. London is a big city and it drip feeds you its secrets sometimes. You will come across things you wouldn't usually, in amongst the Starbucks and pret a mange there are some amazing sights. Just 'being' somewhere is a great experience and one no guide book can help you find.