A station, a stop or two away from London sits a shop that is only open once or twice a year – its specialty are books but it also sells things.

The best live jazz band I ever heard was at a packed out night in Brilliant Corners. I was happy to be squashed.

The most beautiful contemporary gallery in London aptly named White Cube, the space is an artwork in itself. Its portfolio of artists and exhibition programme is top of the league, always presented as with style and grace as the space itself. Photograph by Paul Riddle

Close-Up's film programmes present a series of films that shaped the art of cinema and its history. The programmes also include regular special events with filmmakers present to discuss their work. Close-Up is committed to supporting and developing the exhibition of independent and experimental cinema, focusing on the cross over between the arts and film culture.

A very good selection of non-fiction, essays, and rare books. The Japanese book collection is gorgeous!