In a city with so much to do, a little guidance is always appreciated. Leah shows us her favourite go-to spots in the British capital.
Leah, Creative Copywriter
Moving to Berlin from London, England has been such a great experience. When working in London, it can be hard to maintain a decent work-life balance. But while there are so many things I love about Berlin, London has this undeniable magnetic pull. I love how it can feel like one giant playground in the summer, but gloomy winter still have this incredible energy. So here’s my guide for London, whatever the weather!
Neighbourhoods
- South East London is where I’ve made some of my favourite memories. From New Cross Gate up towards Brockley, the streets are lined with neon-clad chicken shops. From jerk to fried, these brightly-lit pockets of poultry are the perfect sanctuary after a night at the pub. It’s also home to Goldsmiths University, meaning the street doubles as a catwalk for Fine Art students.
- Dalston is home to the world’s best pizza. Check out Voodoo Ray’s, where they serve by the slice, and Brunswick East, for eggs Benedict with a candied bacon twist. Other important landmarks include the Rio, a grade II listed Art Deco cinema, where I snuck into my first 18 rated movie.
Going out
- Hidden beneath the arches of Peckham Rye station, Bar Story serves classic cocktails with an arty twist. I’m a sucker for a good Mojito, but was swayed by the gin-infused Bar Story Bonfire (the name pays homage to their infamous firepit).
- Patty&Bun’s hand-cut fries and homemade smoky mayonnaise landed them a 5 star Time Out review (I knew about it before, promise!). The ‘Ari Gold’ burger is nothing less than sensational, with pickled red onions for some added sourness. But come for the patty, stay for the wings. Three words. Sticky. Barbecue. Goodness.
- I’m finally venturing out of SE London to recommend this cosy tapas spot in Covent Garden. Salvador and Amanda is named after the surrealist painter and his long-time muse. It’s made for date-nights. Ambient, delicious and tucked away in one of the most beautiful areas of London. The chorizo picante con tomate y pimiento and tortilla Española are a must.
Things to do
- Located in the heart of Hyde Park, the Serpentine Sackler Gallery is home to some of the world’s best contemporary art. My first visit here was to see Das Institut by Kerstin Brätsch and Adele Röder: the most memorable piece being a two metre-wide neon outline of a pair of breasts. But if the art is too out there for you, just grab an ice cream and take a stroll around Hyde Park instead. It’s free admission, after all!
- A far cry from your usual high-street shopping experience, Old Spitalfields Market showcases the U.K.’s best independent food stalls, clothing retailers and brands. First opening in 1666, the indoor market is a melting pot of culture and history. Perfect for rainy Sundays. For the best Reuben sandwich London has to offer, check out Monty’s Deli.
- Only open during the summer, Frank’s Cafe is a hotspot for locals and Instagrammers alike. The make-shift bar perches on top of a former multi-storey car park, but it’s much more glamorous than it sounds. The iconic stairway leading to the roof is painted wall-to-floor in fuschia pink, so you’ll have to do a fair bit of photobombing on your way up. But with a view like Frank’s, you wonder who’d go to The Shard.
Top spaces
With a projector and fold-down seating, this flexible workshop space in Newington Green isn’t just ideal for yoga.
A stunning 6th-floor roof terrace, elegant furniture and a scenic view over central London. It’s the perfect multi-functional meeting space.
All aboard the Lady Daphne, a gorgeously refurbished Thames sailing barge. Built in 1923, the ship is full of history – but also modern features. Either travel down the east of the river, under Tower Bridge, or for larger events, the boat stays moored at St. Katharine Docks.
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