The first time I stepped in to The Social I could not believe I hadn't had the pleasure of visiting previously... As more and more of my friends have come to realise I write articles about the hidden treasures of London I'm put under more and more pressure to pluck somewhere interesting out of thin air wherever I am in London. Most of the time I relish this and can expertly duck us in to a cool wine bar or backstreet restaurant but there are still a few areas of London where I am short of ideas!
Oxford Street, it has to be said is a one stop shopping heaven/nightmare. Whichever way you look at it your tired feet will at some point give up on you and you'll be craving a sanctuary... Established by Heavenly Records at the end of the 90s - The Social is it. With a colour scheme reminiscent of The Big Lebowski film set and a - just on the right side of kooky - cocktail list featuring some classics and new faves (but sadly no White Russian).
The wooden clad interior and fab brown leather booths take you a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street and you can even grab one of the gourmet Hot Dogs if you need to seriously refuel. Feel free to get carried away as most nights they open the basement club for nights including Hip Hop Karaoke!
Find your way with 246 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Three Falcons serves some of London’s best Indian food, with hearty curries, cheesy naan and a warm atmosphere that’s perfect for sharing with friends.
by
Twice a week, all the tables are pushed to one side, and the bookshop is transformed into an intimate venue for author talks, film screenings and debates.
by
Walpole spent most of his life transforming the building into his own ‘little Gothic castle’, with battlements, arched doorways and stained glass windows.
by
Aside from its compelling history, what really sets Fitzrovia Chapel apart is its extraordinary gold mosaic ceiling. So don't forget to look up!
by
What really sets Book 28 apart, is their commitment to sourcing intersectional literature that would be unlikely to appear in your average public library.
by
Designed in 1822 by Thomas Cubitt (the architect behind large parts of Belgravia & Pimlico), Woburn Walk retains many of its original Georgian shopfronts.
by
Savour your food, indulge in good conversation and when you’ve scraped your plate clean, go out onto the patio for a long, drawn-out coffee in the sun.
by
Everything I’ve tried in this restaurant is delicious and plentiful. I love the bread, the dips and I can guarantee that their saffron rice is to die for!
by
I immediately fell in love with Redemption Roasters for their strong mission, big social impact, and great coffee of course. Plus an excellent brunch menu!
by
At the ground level - a quirky interior, cosy seating areas, and a great selection of drinks and food! But if you go upstairs though you will discover...
by
An a family-owned independent cheese shop that opened in 1994 and has been going strong since then. Their selection of cheeses is outstanding and varied.
by
Barnsbury Wood is enjoyed by Londoners all year round, but it is at its most glorious in the summer months when the trees are drenched in golden sunlight.
by
246 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 246 Insider Tips