AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO LONDON
SUMMER IN THE CITY:
Planning a trip to London? FLANNELS has you covered with this definitive guide to the city c/o resident and Creative Council member, Raphaelle Moore.
London in August is a joy. Less tourists, less office workers, less locals for that matter, the streets become freer and the bookings easier to make.
So, to celebrate the capital in all its glory, Head of Projects at Fashion East and Creative Council member Raphaelle Moore has shared her favourite London spots. Think off-the-beaten-track, IFKYK hang outs where you’re more likely to be sitting alongside residents than tourists.
From taking in a spot of sport via her favourite football team to where to book a table, here’s an insider’s guide of what to do, where to eat and where to stay in London.
Consider this your essential guide to London, courtesy of Raphaelle Moore.
WHAT SHOULD WE SEE IN LONDON?
My Neighbour Totoro
My Neighbour Totoro at the Barbican this autumn/winter. I am going to see it later in the year, but I’ve heard it’s incredible. A coming-of-age story, it explores the magical fantasy world of childhood over the course of one incredible summer.
WHAT SHOULD WE DO IN LONDON?
Chelsea FC
The Premier League kicks off again mid-August and I’ll be going to see Chelsea FC matches at Stamford bridge. Hopefully watching my crush Reece James captain our side to winning the league.
Las Vegas Arcade
Las Vegas Arcade, Soho. I can play for hours in there or end up watching some crazy talented people on the dancing machines.
WHERE SHOULD WE EAT IN LONDON?
IMAGE: JOHN CAREY
Brunswick House
Brunswick House has the most delicious food for when you’re feeling a bit fancy, think grilled cod, burrata and monkfish, run by angel chef Jackson Boxer. Just as impressive as the food, is the residence: a Georgian Mansion nestled among the tower blocks of Vauxhall, filled with antiques.
Fish Wings & Tings
Fish Wings & Tings has the best Jamaican food. Located in Brixton Village, the owner Brian is easy on the eyes too. On the menu? Cod fish fritters, jerk chicken and rotis. The ideal spot to sit outside in the late summer warmth.
Di Lieto Bakery
Di Lieto is an Italian-run family joint that’s been serving up simple Italian food near Oval since 1980. Head to their Instagram to check out their daily lunch menus written up on a chalkboard each morning, from lasagnes to borlotti bean soup and ciabattas.
WHERE SHOULD WE HANG OUT IN LONDON?
The Golden Heart
Head to The Golden Heart, also known as ‘Sandra’s’, for a weekday drink or to watch the football. Opposite Old Spitalfields Market, the pub’s renowned for its iconic landlady, Sandra Esquilant, whose relationships with the Brit art crowd mean Tracey Emin originals hang in the walls and windows. Rumour has it, there’s also a ghost living in the cellar…
Below Stones Nest
Below Stones Nest, Shaftsbury Avenue, is my favourite spot for a night out. A late-night dive bar from Frank and Jackson Boxer, its nestled underground, serving up cocktails, wines (straight from Brunswick House) and intimate gigs.
WHERE SHOULD WE SHOP IN LONDON?
The Nobel Collection
This Lord of The Rings (and other things) merch shop in Covent Garden is a must see. Get your hands on everything a fan could wish for.
Artbox
Artbox, Covent Garden, is the place to get all your bestie’s presents. Think fun stationery and cute merch.
FLANNELS X
FLANNELS X, Oxford Street, is the cultural hub of FLANNELS. An ever-evolving cultural playground, it features everything from brand pop-ups to gigs, exhibitions and live panel talks with an always-on digital art exhibition housed in the basement and on the exterior screens.
WHERE SHOULD WE STAY IN LONDON?
The Standard
Elli Jafari, the Managing Director, at The Standard is a legend. She very kindly hosted Fashion East’s 20th anniversary there and we stayed the night. So much fun. Housed inside Camden Council’s former headquarters, the Brutalist building has been given the hotel’s signature mid-century feel; lots of wood, lots of leather, lots of great London views over Kings Cross and beyond.
WHAT TO PACK FOR LONDON