Even if they’re sheltering under an umbrella for much of the year in this city, Londoners still like to look good. And where do they go for all things beauty? Santi London. We like this pristine spa for facials and rejuvenating massages, sure, but where they really shine is the realm of medical aesthetics. 

The V&A is instantly calmer than its neighbouring Science and Natural History museums. On a warm day crowds gather to paddle in the elliptical courtyard pool. Inside there is always something new to discover. The blockbuster fashion exhibitions (Alexander McQueen, Christian Dior, Balenciaga) are definitely worth the entry price, but visitors shouldn’t miss highlights in the permanent collection including Renaissance works by Botticelli and statues by Michelangelo. Exit through the gift shop – the best museum store in London.

In its new flagship site behind stalwart Sloane Square department store Peter Jones, The Conran Shop continues to be ahead of the game when it comes to design. What the space has lost in size from the old Brompton spot it’s gained in focus, with its seriously concise edit of modern and classic pieces. Whether you’re coming to pick up marble desk trays or take home mid-century Eames chairs and Poulsen pendant lights, it’s a London classic that is going nowhere.

Sure, you can scoop up feather-soft cashmere and classic workwear from JOSEPH here, but what we really come for is the tightly edited selection of local and international brands on the racks. The staff is lovely, so if you're stuck on a piece, definitely solicit a little advice.