Getting lost is an age old suggestion but a good one. Put away your cell phone or your A-Z and just wander around. I still do this regularly even though Ive lived here for nearly 10 years. London is a big city and it drip feeds you its secrets sometimes. You will come across things you wouldn't usually, in amongst the Starbucks and pret a mange there are some amazing sights. Just 'being' somewhere is a great experience and one no guide book can help you find.

Lovely, open space close to Highbury and Islington with tennis courts, netball courts, kids' playground and Parkrun on a Saturday morning at 9am!  

There are three branches of this South Indian Vegetarian Restaurants across London, two in the West End. They all look pretty unremarkable from the outside, the décor is pretty basic, but don't be fooled - the food is wonderful! It's incredibly cheap and the friendly staff cater for vegans and people with food intolerances really well.

A friend took me to this bar on Greek Street, I’m unsure of what it’s called or if it should be there, but it feels pretty authentic and makes you dream of the Soho of the 60s.

It has such a special vibe, it is very near Columbia Road and Broadway Market It is surprising to find a farm in the middle of the city! Very recommended having English Breakfast there :)