One of the few remaining bastions of alternative Soho, The Crobar is a metal bar which attracts a friendly crowd and serves a top selection of beer and whisky

Cordings situated in piccadilly is a renowned establishment for British Country clothing and tailoring - that can not only kit you out to shoot pheasant in the finest yellow ochre cords but for me offers a great selection of socks.

A phenomenal cultural place which brings to London the best contemporary dance talent and productions. Sadler's Wells is one institution that makes London such a an amazing place to live in. Always ground-breaking and risk-taking programming. The best dance venue in the world, thanks to the amazing artistic vision of Alistair Spalding and his team. Leading by example and always doing it with heart.

London is blessed with many fine parks, but Brockwell is a real jewel in south London. A short walk or bus ride from Brixton, or right by Herne Hill overground station, the park includes large grassy areas, the fantastic Brockwell Lido (a vast open-air pool – hectic mid-summer unless you get in early - a 7am swim is utterly blissful), tennis courts, a bowling green, a BMX track, a mini-railway, a secret garden, and a few newly landscaped ponds. Perfect for a lazy summer day.

It's a members-only library but you might be granted access with a research request. The writer's room is great but there's a few special, hidden corners among the bookshelves to tuck yourself away in.