A green oasis for everyone to enjoy in the heart of busy Dalston

I worked at the Barbican for several years and during that time became very fond of its architecture. One of my favourite spaces within the centre is the conservatory, a giant tropical garden in the middle of a concrete city.

A small but specialist record shop built around proprietor Jean Claude’s extensive knowledge of 20th and 21st century recorded music. Connoisseurs in vinyl, you can expect to find an eclectic range of new and pre-owned rarities. Based on the 3rd floor of an office block in Noho, it feels like a secret hideout for super vinyl freaks.

I probably spend too much time here but I love it for the atmosphere. During the day it’s quite empty. The proprietor is often dozing in the back corner and you can read for hours with just one cup of tea without anyone bothering you. It picks up in the evenings as all the regulars pile in with pre-bought bottles of wine.

I rediscovered this place recently having not been for years and now I keep returning. The geological galleries are my favourites.