The Olympic park development has both fans and critics. Whichever side you’re on, it’s at the very least a visually interesting part of the city to wander around. Hackney Wick once had the feel of an industrial wasteland but has become a prime hipster hangout, with a number of craft beer bars, an independent theatre and some pop-up eateries.
There’s also a network of canals running through the area with views over the old Olympic site and some of the rest of the city. I like sitting on the canal side with a beer soaking up the atmosphere and popping into one of the many bars when it gets too chilly. From the canals you can also wander over to the Olympic park itself where you can participate in sports – form BMX to taekwondo - or slide down the Orbit sculpture slide. Check the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park website for what’s on and bookings.
White post lane
£
free
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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With connections to the local skate scene, it's a place where the mulleted, leather-jacketed alternative students from art unis head for a big night.
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"Kew Gardens" is the famous UNESCO world heritage site in Southwest London. It's great to visit for its plants, flowers and Christmas festivities!
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"The Thames Clipper" is an efficient machine, designed for London commuters. It's the perfect way to get on a boat on the Thames on a sunny evening!
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"Canopy Brewery", just below the railway tracks, is another perfect spot to sample some of London's finest brews, directly from the source!
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"Tayyabs" in London is a legendary Punjabi run. I'll go weak at the knees at the aroma of their sizzling platters of marinated lamb chops & shami kebabs...
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"Sambrook's Brewery" in London is tucked among housing and insustrial estates; it's off the beaten track but should be on every beer lover's map...
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"Mondo Brewery" in London is a meeting point for me and other appreciators of hoppy liquid gold. Plenty to love, but no other taproom has free popcorn!
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202 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 202 Insider Tips from our local Spotters