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 great place to wander get lost and and escape the city.

One of London's best kept secrets, Spiritual Bar is a small and super welcoming live music bar on a side road near Chalk Farm station. Always somehow busy but not too packed, they play host to most of London's best emerging blues, rock and folk musicians, and owner Raf is the nicest dude you could meet. And makes a serious mojito

Best Udon in London, with an exceptional specials board. The head chef Shuko Oda opened the first restaurant in Soho 11 years ago, and they now have restaurants in the City and on Broadway market. Great for kids, our son loves the Mackerel udon.

Cosy little restaurant with a giant kitchen island unit in the centre which doubles as a display and seating area. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with a focus on fermenting.