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.

Sager & Wilde is a small wine bar on Hackney Road, close to many other amazing places on Hackney and Columbia Road. The perfect place for an aperitif or a nightcap.

Hands down my favourite pub in London. Go for the day.

This independent cinema near Angel in North London is over 100 years old and has had several lives including hosting early Sex Pistol gigs. It now serves as my favourite place to watch films (along with the Rio in Dalson).

This is the stuff nightmares are made of. Good nightmares. A perverse Aladdin's cave of treasure and artefacts.