When we ask our dear friend Frances why she loves this spot so much she wittles it down into two words: 'frozen margaritas.' So pop by Middle Lane Market to test them out for yourself. Or, if you're not in the mood for a cocktail, call by for some cheese, vino, beers, veg, or a mighty good sandwich. 

Norman's is one of those spots which makes me resoundly proud to be British. English cuisine may not be renowned for fine-dining, but one thing's for sure we've mastered the full breakfast. Sausage, beans, chips, a bacon sandwich or bubble & squeak for all under £10. And of course, a builder tea to cleanse the palette. Perfection? We think so. 

This ancient heath is filled with woodlands and meadows, and surrounded by houses worth daydreaming about. But perhaps most lovely are its swimming ponds. The Ladies’ Pond is the UK’s only exclusively female wild swimming spot. There’s also a mixed pool open in summer, but the gender- specific ones are for the truly dedicated cold-water plungers. There’s a wonderful camaraderie at both, and even Christmas Day draws a crowd. A slightly eccentric slice of the city that doesn’t feel like London at all.