On Sundays I often find myself in need of a little peace and quiet and not wanting to waste the last day of the weekend at home I like to head out in search of a slice of tranquillity. Due to London's not-too-tropical climate it's not always the best idea to just settle down on a park bench for the day...
Once you've navigated the somewhat confusing walkways of the barbican estate you'll find the conservatory located on the 3rd floor above the Barbican centre.
London's second largest conservatory is home to some 2000 species of tropical plant life making it a surreal paradise in one of the most urban parts of London. This unexpected peaceful retreat is also home to a variety of quails and finches and a pond with huge Koi Karp that seem to epitomise the perfect Sunday floating around in this leafy hide-out. It's the perfect place to sit and read a book or just soak up the scenery.
Find your way with 289 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Loafing Cafe is a combination of bakery, with excellent sourdough, a cafe and creperie with a garden. Enjoy the comfortable seating and the warmth of the team!
by
Anyone you take here (including yourself) will love you for it. Spring is a rare thing in London: grand, but calm, luxurious but simple, fancy but very friendly.
by
Bard is a bookshop & cafe with an amazing selection of books, addictive coffee and pastry. Don't miss the calendar of readings, events, book clubs, and quizzes.
by
In the heart of Southeast London sits "Eltham Palace and Gardens". Once a medieval estate, in the '30s it was styled with mesmerizing art deco furnishings.
by
It's always been magical to press the discreet buzzer and walk into the quiet brick-walled garden of Rochelle Canteen, leaving gritty East London behind.
by
In an area full of chains, visit the family-run Crown Café. I'm a big fan of their sandwiches & their pastel de nata and they make a great cup of tea.
by
Their Reading room is a mix between a gallery and a library with books and lots of places to sit and read or do some work on your laptop.
by
They have an array of all the classic pastries you’d expect from a French bakery, from pain au chocolat & croissants to my favourite croissant aux amandes.
by
The Barbary pays homage to the culinary traditions of the countries from the Atlantic Coast through to the Mediterranean Sea leading to the Middle East.
by
The Nickel Cinema is a 37-seat gem that revives NYC grindhouse spirit with little-known films and a vintage-filled bar. Unmissable for true film lovers!
by
A beloved East London classic, E Pellici offers hearty Italian–English food, strong coffee, and warm family-run charm to a lively mix of locals and visitors.
by
289 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 289 Insider Tips