Lovely space in Southbank. Interesting events and exhibitions. I really like the surroundings as well, especially during sunny days. Walk around and then have a rest drinking facing the river.

There's something so quintessentially London about this hill. The network of paths and lines of lampposts leading you up to a view of the city that's at your fingertips.

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.

I spend many hours in the bookshops along this stretch, namely Henry Pordes for second hand books and new discounted titles (pile on left of photo), as well as Koenig Books for new art books with lots of great discounts in the basement. (photo right). In 2001 the rents for much of this strip were increased to align them closer to market value but thanks to public support they were reduced again. Unfortunately some bookshops still closed down; Koenig replaced the beloved Zwemmers - a real institution - but thankfully still provide great books, although others are no longer bookshops at all.

I love swimming and I love being outside. London is great if your into both these things. I swim at London Fields Lido which is heated all year round. Its best in the winter when the steam rises from the water and if your lucky its snowing a little on your head. If your brave you can also go for the unheated option of the Serpentine or Hampstead Ponds.