Looking for books on Sound Art, Photography, Art or Cultural Theory? Then Conor Donlon's bookshop is the place to go. Supplying printed matter for a variety of tastes this delightful shop has a lot to offer. Ranging from fanzines and fashion magazines to books on underground culture, artists writings and sheer bizarre booklets on uncommon sexual practices, this engaging shop has something for everyone. Conor also deals in rare and out of print books and John Waters is a frequent customer. If you come soon you might just be in time to pick up one of John Waters signed copies of: 'Role Models'.

LUX is an international arts agency that supports and promotes artists’ moving image practices and the ideas that surround them. Founded in 2002 as a charity and not-for-profit limited company, the organisation builds on a long lineage of predecessors (The London Film-Makers’ Co-operative, London Video Arts and The Lux Centre) which stretch back to the 1960s. The only organisation of its kind in the UK, LUX represents the country’s only significant collection of artists’ film and video, and is the largest distributor of such work in Europe. LUX works with a large number of major institutions including museums, galleries, festivals and educational establishments, as well as directly with the public and artists. The organisation’s main activities are distribution, exhibition, publishing, education, research, and professional development support for artists and arts professionals.

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.

Whipps Cross boating lake is a true hidden East end gem. Located on Whipps Cross flats midway between Walthamstow and Wanstead.

Camping in London? Absolutely! This is one of a few sites which has direct access to Epping Forest from the campsite. Easy to get to by tube, with a fire field and 50 acres to spread out in, this is a great place to recharge your batteries.