I worked at the Barbican for several years and during that time became very fond of its architecture. One of my favourite spaces within the centre is the conservatory, a giant tropical garden in the middle of a concrete city.

East london spot with a bit of everything, food during the day and cocktails, music and cinema during the night. Few nice places around like E5 bakery, Netil 360 rooftop, and Mare Street Market

SOAS university has a small gallery space dedicated to exhibitions about Asia, Africa and the Middle East. There's a small but beautiful Japanese zen garden on the rooftop (currently closed for refurbishment)

Proper old school boozer in Rotherhithe with a deck overlooking the Thames

Quiet outdoor garden with bar and pizza meters away from the busy and vibrant Dalston main roads.