Raisin bread and sausage rolls; plus madeleines, palmiers, financiers, croissants, and cinnamon buns for breakfast with a Parisian jazz soundtrack

THE place for birthday presents and bookcases (mine was 50p).

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.

A great walk down an old abandoned rail way from Finsbury Park to Highgate. Most of the original platforms are sill remaining so its an interesting place to explore...

One of the main sources of inspiration for my work are unusual objects, vintage toys and tools. A great place to find them is this genuine car boot sale, which is clear of 'bargain' toilet paper and questionable cosmetics. Another plus are the comparatively sociable opening hours. (it starts at noon… )