Good, progressive, solid, forward-thinking place. And run by the warmest, most intelligent and inspiring people to be around. Always a humble, fulfilled visit. And whilst in the area, best to visit next door to Hannah Barry's gallery for more wonderful work.

Raisin bread and sausage rolls; plus madeleines, palmiers, financiers, croissants, and cinnamon buns for breakfast with a Parisian jazz soundtrack

London’s wildest and best park to get lost in. Just follow your instinct, chase trees, go up to the viewing points and you’ll always find breathing and mindspace in Hampstead Heath. If you can, visit often, as it goes through wonderful changes over the seasons.

This painted of the shopping centre by my brother, Leo Verhoeven, shows a rather idyllic vision of the shopping centre we both share. Its pretty rough, full of budget shops and funny cafes and framed by a shanty town style open air market. I have a real soft spot for it as the classic under dog, thats so often slated and condemned but lives on.

Its been my high street for the last 20years. On a sunny day its full of colors, lots of soul and plenty of bargains. Don't go by what you hear, come and check it out for yourself.