citylikeyou — The Nightingale — London by James Davies

London / Pub

The Nightingale is the antithesis of the hundreds of soulless gastropubs that a lot of decent pubs have recently become and remains everything a proper pub should be. Britain’s pubs haven’t had it easy lately. The smoking ban and the general effects of the recession have hammered the industry hard. The Nightingale continues to be what it has always been, a proper pub at the heart of the local community. Its annual charity walk has raised nearly £500,000 for good causes in over 30 years and it seems determined to do the things a pub should do and do them properly. Once inside you feel like you could be in a country pub instead of in the middle of South London. There’s no jukebox and the TV is hardly ever on, but there’s a great atmosphere with a good set of locals and good drink and food. Bliss.

Address
The Nightingale, 97 Nightingale Lane, Balham, London, United Kingdom

Photographer

Current city: London

jamesdaviesphoto.com

Born and raised in Cardiff, James Davies is a photographer who has lived in London for 13 years. His work centres around the impact of the city upon its citizens and its citizens upon the city, as well as the wider social, economic and political themes that affect daily life in Britain. His most recent series, The Sclerosis of Existence, looks to explore the relationship between the people and the places of a city when seen through the repetition of daily routine.

More Places in London 471

London / Restaurant

Great food and atmosphere in Brixton. Try their Vegan Viking pizza: Cashew cheese, pistachio pesto, red chillies, rocket and mint or their Cauliflower cheese arancini. And who doesn't like a bottomless brunch in the weekends?

London / Cinema

The UK's only cinema dedicated to documentaries. Really interesting programme of screenings, events and talks.

London / Bar

Bowling alleys, karaoke rooms, pool tables, arcade machines, this is basically Feltham Bowl for adults. Part of the holy trinity along with Max's Sandwich Shop and The Faltering Fullback

London / Canal

Bordering the west side of Victoria Park, Regent's Canal serves as a pleasant walking or riding track, particularly on weekends when it's at it's quietest.

London / Museum

I have just recently finished a project installing a drawing for artist Alan Johnston onto the ceiling of the Tate Britain. The experience, although being somewhat taxing on peoples health with long hours and difficult working conditions was fantastic. The mediative and mind altering drawing practice that Alan has created combined with the enthusiasm of a team of talented individuals has resulted in what can be considered a great work of art. It will be open to the public later this year.