For Sarah Lindsay — raised in London, now based in Aotearoa, and currently back in her hometown — these aren’t just recommendations, they’re rituals woven through memory, movement, and meaning. “There’s a rhythm to London that doesn’t show up on maps. Not the tourist tempo of selfies on the South Bank or queues for the Eye, but a quieter current, felt more than seen,” says Lindsay. “As someone who’s built a life around movement, memory, and soul work, the places I return to aren’t just spaces. They’re states of mind. Not secrets, but rituals.” This is her personal love letter to the city.
To Eat
Andrew Edmonds, Soho
To me, this is London. Candlelight, creaky floorboards, and a wine list that reads like a love letter. Quietly iconic.
Campania & Jones, Columbia Road
East London, stripped back. It smells like garlic, sounds like cutlery, and tastes like the kind of Italian that doesn’t try too hard.
Gloria, Shoreditch
Light, Italian mix match ambiance. From date night to taking your mum out, the booths are filled with colour and character.
The Quality Chop House, Clerkenwell
Ceremonial roast energy, without fuss. Old school in all the best ways.
To Drink
Brilliant Corners, Dalston
Dinner, drinks, and an audiophile sound system. Think warm lighting, Japanese plates, and vinyl-only DJ sets.
Spiritland, Kings Cross
For the sonic curious. Great drinks and deep cuts. Come for a cocktail, stay for the bassline.
The Winemakers Club, Farringdon
Housed in a cavernous arch under Holborn Viaduct, think candles, exposed brick, and bottles with stories.
Next Door Records, Shepherd’s Bush
A record shop that moonlights as a bar. Intimate, unpretentious, and joyfully analogue.
To Move
TripSpace, Haggerston
Tucked beneath the arches, it’s one of the city’s most honest movement spaces. Raw, grounded, expressive — and refreshingly affordable.
Blok, Clapton
Design-led and full of clean energy. This is a stunning space that treats movement like an art form — always moving forward.
Mission, Shoreditch
Yoga that’s intelligent and evolving. A studio with real presence and some of London’s most infamous teachers.
1Rebel, Victoria
For when I need to blow the cobwebs out — Ride classes here feel more like release than routine.
To Shop
Phonica Records, Soho
Renowned for its curated collection of house, techno, and electronic music. A haven for DJs and enthusiasts alike, Phonica is a standout in London’s music scene.
Chelsea Vintage Couture, Chelsea
Designer vintage with patina. Each piece feels lifted from someone’s life, not just their wardrobe.
Daunt Books, Marylebone
A pioneer in the independent bookshop scene, Daunt Books organises by country rather than genre.
Aro Archive, Shoreditch
Uncommon fashion that’s quietly cult.
To Appreciate
Wilton’s Music Hall, Whitechapel
The oldest surviving music hall in the world. Faded grandeur, raw wood, candlelight — every show here feels like it’s happening inside a secret.
Almeida Theatre, Islington
Small space, big presence. Sharp programming, fearless direction, and performances that stay with you.
South London Gallery, Camberwell
Contemporary art with teeth. Honest, layered, and worth crossing the river for.
Sadler’s Wells, Angel
Movement as art, emotion in motion. London’s home of contemporary dance.
This article was originally featured in Fashion Quarterly’s Spring 2025 issue.
Words: Sarah Lindsay
Imagery: Supplied
