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

An excellent bookshop by Brick Lane, the interior design is incredible and the selection unexpected. A good place to get lost in!

Teeny, French cafe with amazing pastries, great coffee and incredible croque-monsieur. Long table in the front and small garden in the back or take away and head to Highbury Fields, which is only a couple of minutes away.  

Founded in 1828 the museum houses around 67,000 specimens many of which are now extinct or endangered. My favorite is the skull of a Bottlenose Whale from 1860.

P Franco, wine shop, bar and restaurant. Amazing wine, delicious small plates (guest chefs) in a very lively atmosphere. The wait for a spot to sit down is worth it.