Probably my favourite building in the city, and right in the heart of it. There are always interesting events happening here, across art and music, and you can drink in the courtyard during summer

A station, a stop or two away from London sits a shop that is only open once or twice a year – its specialty are books but it also sells things.

The Thames is not traditionally the prettiest river but it has its moments. Here it is turning pink in a sunset this summer. Its the reason the city is here and I like how in moments of real importance it rises to the occasion. For the golden Jubilee the queen floated down it with hundreds of boats, it was an amazing sight, like vikings setting out for battle. Good river spots - North Bank Savoy Gardens, Royal Festival Hall.

A beautiful old school bookshop, floor to ceiling photo books. Heaven.

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.