One of the main sources of inspiration for my work are unusual objects, vintage toys and tools. A great place to find them is this genuine car boot sale, which is clear of 'bargain' toilet paper and questionable cosmetics. Another plus are the comparatively sociable opening hours. (it starts at noon… )
The Nightingale is the antithesis of the hundreds of soulless gastropubs that a lot of decent pubs have recently become and remains everything a proper pub should be. Britain's pubs haven't had it easy lately. The smoking ban and the general effects of the recession have hammered the industry hard. The Nightingale continues to be what it has always been, a proper pub at the heart of the local community. Its annual charity walk has raised nearly £500,000 for good causes in over 30 years and it seems determined to do the things a pub should do and do them properly. Once inside you feel like you could be in a country pub instead of in the middle of South London. There's no jukebox and the TV is hardly ever on, but there’s a great atmosphere with a good set of locals and good drink and food. Bliss.
Bowling always reminds me of the film The Big Lebowski. And maybe that’s why it doesn’t really matter how skilled anyone is at bowling. With or without professional trainers, it is great fun to boost the aiming skills.
You might think the Tate Britain is the less interesting of the two London outposts: full of crusty oil paintings and pensioners on day-trips, but you’d be wrong. Not only is the building a delicious warren of interconnecting rooms, each more beautiful than the last, but it also houses a collection of pre-Raphelite works that has me in tears of awe every time I swing by.
Signature cocktails like "concrete", with actual chalk on it, food is good and the places has a small backyard garden. Recommend to try the food, as they are small tasty plates.