Just above the Dorfman Theatre lobby at the National Theatre, is the entrance to the high-level walkway, a public walkway that overlooks the National Theatre props and scenic workshop. It's free and is a unique chance to get a glimpse of what happens backstage. I love popping in when I'm on the south bank, as you get a completely different sight each time, depending on which production the workshops are working on at the time.

This uninspiring sounding place is a disused railway line that runs along the roofline from Finsbury Park to Highgate. A great place to excerise and escape.

This is one of the only platforms on the London Underground that is not bombarded with billboard advertising. It's a reminder to myself of how an uncluttered environment can give you so much more room to think.

A perfect place for any occasion - or no occasion at all - every table feels like the best one.

Need some clean air or just a time-out? Kew Gardens is a short train ride away from the city centre but is provides you with space, greenery and and a small holiday for the lungs. The garden contain tropical glasshouses and interesting architecture, so it is a treat for both body and mind.