Nice old trees, lots of space, good for walking, running, hanging out with your kids and most of all, the perfect place to lie in the grass and chill out.

Although off the beaten track from the large national galleries, 198 is no less an important part of London’s artistic heritage. Developed during the social unrest in the Brixton area in the 1980s, 198 has grown from a community arts space into an exciting contemporary visual arts body that is often the first place to see the next rising star of the London art scene.

There are not many places in London like it. On a Saturday during market hours it heaves with stalls and visitors for a good mile or two. Great place to pick up some bric-a-brac, genuine oddities and a great bite to eat, or just enjoy the hustle and bustle vibe of the place.

The many book stores dotted along this strip can provide hours of inspiration. Aside from those selling new books, several specialise in second-hand and antiquarian books.

Misty mornings on the river beat the rest... this pic was taken in February on the Walthamstow marshes.