OCCUPATION: Founder and owner of Maggie & Rose
MY STYLE: I have a very eclectic style, and like to mix lots of different bits and pieces together. On most days, it comes down to what is clean and ironed!
I LOVE LONDON BECAUSE: It’s the center of everything, travel is so easy, and we have the best museums for rainy day outings.
5 Pollen Street
This authentic Italian restaurant, tucked away on quiet Mayfair Street, accommodates only 60 guests at a time. The wait may be lengthy, but your patience will be rewarded by Stefano Cavallini’s impeccably prepared rabbit, wild mushroom risotto, and braised escarole. Plus, there’s plenty to look at, as the dining room boasts several paintings by minimalism master Gary Hume.
Maggie & Rose
This child-friendly social club is all about creative learning and making friends. Whether your little ones wish to broaden their taste buds in a cooking class, make an artful mess with glitter and paint, or learn the basics of salsa dancing, Maggie & Rose has something for every skill level and personality.
The Natural History Museum
Thanks to a 21st century upgrade, this 130-year-old museum now houses a state-of the-art Darwin Centre. In addition to millions of zoological organisms and botanical specimens, the Natural History Museum excites with its crowd-pleasing display of dinosaur skeletons and, of course, the rare and beloved 8.62 meter-long giant squid, Archie.
Thames River Service
Whether you wish to learn about London’s history and architecture, or simply kick back and soak up views of the water, Thames River Services has a ship and a route that’s perfect for you and your family. TRS operates a whole fleet of boats that gently cruise along the river, granting views of Cleopatra’s Needle, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. Cruise ships are also available for events and private hire.
Skandium
Founded by three Scandinavians, Skandium offers sharply designed furniture, housewares, jewelry, and other gifts at its numerous locations across London. Whether you’re looking for design staples (Bertoia’s diamond chair or Marimekko’s boldy floral throw pillows) or something wholly unique, Skandium’s expertly curated stores are sure to impress.
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David Lloyd Gym
This gym has several locations across the country, each of which offers state-of-the-art machines and personal training. Best of all, the gyms are surprisingly child-friendly, as most locations offer nurseries, swimming lessons for tots, and family group activities.
Pizza East Portobello
The second location of the Shoreditch original, Pizza East Portobello uses ciabatta-style dought for its crust, which is wood-fired in the oven. We love the buffalo mozzarella, tomato, and basil pizza for the kids, not to mentiion baked garlic bread and hot cinnamon sugar donuts. The original Shoreditch location also features a private 18-person dining room.
Paul
What began in 1889 as a local bakery in Northern France is now an international “go-to” spot for delicious, crusty, and authentic bread. We admire Paul’s ability to uphold a quaint, around-the-corner vibe while still maintaining utter consistency in quality and taste.
Sweaty Betty
Whether you’re into ballet, strength training or downhill skiing, Sweaty Betty is sure to fulfill your clothing and accessories needs. There are several locations throughout London and beyond, and the online store has it all: from yoga mats and swim goggles to sizing guides for bras and shoes. You can also find the brand’s signature yoga bands (and several other products) at Selfridges and Harrods.
Locanda Ottoemezzo
Locanda Ottoemezzo offers a delicious and traditional menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, when coffee, focaccia sandwiches, and Scottish fillet of beef, respectively, delight. Dog owners in the crowd will be happy to hear that the outdoor dining area is also pet-friendly.