Ever since visiting the exhibition space, a few years ago, I don’t think I have ever missed one single show. It is one of the best exhibition spaces for contemporary art in London, in my opinion. The scale and the light feel right. The environment is not too overwhelming and not too small. In addition, the bookshop has a good selection of catalogues, art books and magazines.

Half a mile from Markfield Park down the River Lee is Springfield Park. The park rises steeply up from the river and has an amazing array of tree species making it beautiful in all seasons. At the brim of the hill there is a line of park benches each one surrounded by box hedge offering a private view across the Lee Valley, Walthamstow and beyond. The park warden was nice enough to give me a chestnut log a couple of years ago from which I carved a bench and two stools.

The best place for a glass of wine*. It's the perfect balance – not too formal, not too informal either. Food is consistently good. Lamb's Conduit Street is a little oasis in the midst of Bloomsbury. (*slightly overpriced)

Arguably the best café in London – or at least East London – with an incredibly welcoming atmosphere, delicious array of food and drinks, and hypnotising views to Broadway Market. Visit early in the mornings, for a roque-monsieur at lunch, or to get lost in their cheese selection at the market stalls on Saturday. Warning: addiction likely to occur.

There are many great parks in London to choose from, but Hampstead Heath is by far my favourite; a lido, Parliament Hill with a great view of the city, ponds, woods and plenty of space. It’s a great place to hang out in the summer, but also presents a lovely walk in the winter. Address: (As it’s so big obviously it doesn’t really have a specific address but there are 2 main entrances) Entrances by Gospel Oak or Hampstead Heath Entrance.