Being down on the underground can be quite stressful and draining, but if you have the chance to look up and into the details that has gone into the tiling of the platforms and stations you might start to see some beauty down there. A lot of stations has bespoke tiles and decorations, almost a century old. Bethnal Green station is one of a handful in London to have been given a very specific additional decoration to the classic cream tiles and name strip. Easy to miss, but dotted around the station are a series of tiles with raised motifs on them, representing aspects of London and places that the Underground visited. Or for typographers: check the type on Hampstead station or Holloway Road for some inspiration.

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

Eccentric and surprising house and museum of architect Sir John Soane. Mostly unchanged since his death over 180 years ago, it is full of atmosphere. Also have spotlit, late night openings.  

An incredible restaurant celebrating the diversity and richness of Chinese food. The 10 course 'Taste of China' menu takes you on a tour of the country with each dish being very different. An unforgettable culinary experience.

The oldest surviving fire station in Peckham, converted and restored by 6a architects, is now an annexe to the South London Gallery.