Eccentric and surprising house and museum of architect Sir John Soane. Mostly unchanged since his death over 180 years ago, it is full of atmosphere. Also have spotlit, late night openings.  

Incredible building centred in the heart of London. Great for exhibitions, David Hockney is currently showing here.

I love this building and always visit if I’m in the area to look at their great window displays, travel up in the beautiful wood paneled lift and wander down the creaky oak staircase. The exterior and interior woodwork is from two old Men-of-War ships, the flooring made from their deck timbers. I normally head straight to the fabric department to see what new seasonal prints they have in, though only buy a metre’s worth so not quite sure what I’ll ever make from them. My most treasured prints are those designed by Grayson Perry of polluted factories, teddy bears, knuckle-dusters and hand grenades. They also sell oversized gift coins produced by the Royal Mint and packaged beautifully in a velvet pouch, which appeal to my love of all things out-sized.

Beautiful, calm location for lunch on a sunny day in London. Housed in a former school bike shed on Arnold Circus in Shoreditch. Great seasonal fresh food.

J+A is a hidden and unpretentious café/ bar just off busy Clerkenwell Road - with outdoor seating!