Now that summer has finally arrived in London, finding outdoor space which isn’t full of people is a challenge. Woodberry wetlands is the ideal place to escape the city heat. A wildlife reserve hidden in North London offers a haven for those keen to spend some time outside.
The reserve consists of a collection of reservoirs which can be explored via the boardwalks and the new river path - a path that follows the aptly named ‘new’ river (constructed in 1613) all the way from Hertfordshire to Islington. Woodberry wetlands boasts an array of wildlife from birds to bats to rare moths (if rare moths are your kind of thing).
On a sunny Saturday, I go for a swim in West Reservoir Centre and then wander around the reservoir to the Coal House Café (pictured) to have a delicious full English overlooking the reservoir. Their breakfasts are delicious and you never know when you might spot a kingfisher.
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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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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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"Hackney Wick Canal" in London once a quasi-industrial wasteland, now a prime hipster hangout... I like sitting at the canal side with a beer.
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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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