This commendable bar-club comprises one expansive room - divided by a wall with an oval hole in the middle, giving the illusion that half of Hoxton is here - and a small pool room downstairs. Read more.
This French artisanal shop is a haven for all things chocolate. There aren't only the usual melting treats but also macarons, mendiants (slabs studded with fruit or nuts) and chocolate-coated almonds. Read more.
Opened in 1989, this riverside museum by Tower Bridge encompasses modern and contemporary industrial and fashion design, graphics, architecture and multimedia. Read more.
The last word in factional conceit, 221b’s study is a loving Victorian recreation and a splendid photo op. Read more.
Kew Gardens is a magnificent World Heritage Site covering 300 acres with over 30,000 species of plants. Read more.
The original Globe Theatre, where many of William Shakespeare's plays were first staged, burned to the ground in 1613. Nearly 400 years later, it was rebuilt not far from its original site. Read more.
Tate Modern gets all the attention, but the original Tate Gallery has a more inclusive brief. It opens until 10pm every Friday and Late at Tate Britain takes place on the first Friday of each month. Read more.
The popular Science Museum Lates take place on the last Wednesday of the month, when adults can explore the galleries free from noisy kids. Read more.
Attraction showcasing weird and wonderful items from around the world. It's open 10am-midnight daily (last admission 10.30pm) Read more.
Tate Modern does weekend after-hours gallery-going extremely well, opening till 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Read more.
Design Overtime takes place irregularly every few months, when the museum opens from 6pm to 10pm for talks and workshops based on the current exhibitions Read more.
This great Young’s local shines like a riverside beacon. The relaxing front bar is ideal for quiet conversation, whereas the larger conservatory by the Thames attracts a lively crowd. Read more.
Owned by the Capital Pub Company, the Boaters Inn sits on a quiet stretch of the river in Kingston. Sup local ales while sitting under dappled shade on the large riverside terrace. Read more.
This rambling Victorian pub opens up at the back onto a huge riverside decked garden. Good food, ales and wines, along with friendly service, ensure that the terraces are packed any day of the week. Read more.
Regent's Park is one of the city's most popular open spaces, covering 410 acres. Attractions run from the animal odours and noises of London Zoo to the enchanting Open Air Theatre. Read more.
This London institution may appear too commercial and crowded to provide a characterful retail experience, but some quirky gems lift the experience. Read more.
Though not everyone is a fan of the recent redevelopment of Spitalfields (particularly those pushed out by the rising rents), the market has been afforded a new lease of life. Read more.
The Old Truman Brewery's buzzy (Up)Market boasts some 140 stalls toting edgy fashion from young designers, vintage gear, gifts, art and crafts and well-priced jewellery. Read more.
Broadway Market's status as a promenade for the East End fashion set is legendary – but it's the high-quality fashion, vintage clothing and independent boutiques that excite the rest of us. Read more.
When quintessential church fête meets West End London chic, the result is Piccadilly Market. Read more.
At Greenwich Market you'll find fruit and veg on Wednesday, antiques on Thursday and a mix of craft and fashion by hip new designers at the weekend. Read more.
Francis Drake was knighted by Queen Elizabeth I on the ‘Golden Hinde’ in Greenwich Reach. The round-the-world ship was a popular attraction before it rotted away in the 1660s. Find your maritime story Read more.