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.

Get on the list for tickets and surprise someone who will appreciate the 'village of books' upstairs in particular.

There's something so quintessentially London about this hill. The network of paths and lines of lampposts leading you up to a view of the city that's at your fingertips.

I can't pass without dropping in, Orcs Nest is a small independent boardgame, D&D etc store that's been around forever(1987)... and has the best logo. Good selection of games for younger kids too.

Aside from the excellent cultural facility's the Barbican Centre has to offer, ranging from theatre, art, music and dance. The space outside the Centre holds personal value in its ability to evoke nostalgia of the Emerald City, in the slightly disturbing film 'Return to Oz'. I enjoy residing by the fountains, where I draw, read books and feed ducks.