Rules
The brass plates outside ‘London’s Oldest Restaurant’ have been polished for so many years they are almost illegible - which is the point. Hearty game, oysters, solid puddings, friendly service and its atmosphere make Rules as popular now as it was when it was founded in 1798.
35 Maiden Lane WC2
Tel: +44 (0)20 7836 5314
www.rules.co.uk
In the 1630s, the Earl of Bedford redeveloped some land that had formerly been a Convent Garden for Westminster Abbey. Architect Inigo Jones was employed and created England’s first public piazza. See the Covent Garden walk here.
Tube: Covent Garden
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Covent Garden
Rock & Sole Plaice
Classic English fish ‘n’ chips, mushy peas and vinegar, all served up with a smile by a Turkish family who know the secret is to do the basics well: good value, fast service, nice stodgy desserts. We’re a long way from the sea here but it’s among the very best fish friers in London.
47 Endell Street WC2
Tel: +44 (0)20 7836 3785
Tintin Shop
Started in 1984, this is the place for books, posters, figures, bags and clothing - in fact, anything that can bear a Tintin logo or likeness of one of Hergé’s characters. Extra points if you know that Hergé is one of that long list of famous Belgians.
34 Floral Street WC2
Tel: +44 (0)20 7836 1131
www.thetintinshop.uk.com
St Paul’s Church
This classic church was built in 1633, designed by Inigo Jones (after whom the two church cats are named). It is known as the ‘Actors’ Church’ and holds plaques to many famous names. The blue box outside was a watchpost against grave robbers.
Bedford Street WC2
Tel: +44 (0)20 7836 5221
www.actorschurch.org
Patisserie Valerie
A little part of Paris, with some love cakes and breads, offering food to eat in or take away. This small chain started in Frith Street in Soho in 1926 but was bombed out during WWII, moving to the present Old Compton Street base. It has now grown to eight shops in London.
15 Bedford Street WC2
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7379 6428
www.patisserie-valerie.co.uk
Segar & Snuff Parlour
Tucked away onto a corner of Covent Garden Market, you can spot this quirky shop by the kilted Highlander sculpture chained outside. Stuffed full of cigars, loose pipe tobacco and accessories for smokers, its gorgeous pipes almost make me want to take up the habit. Almost.
27a, The Market WC2
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7836 8345
Lamb & Flag
A Covent Garden institution, dating back to 1623, this is often crowded with drinkers spilling out to the street. Once called the Bucket of Blood, because of the bare-knuckle fights staged in its courtyard, it was frequented by Charles Dickens. Famed for its whiskies and English food.
33 Rose Street WC2
Tel: +44 (0)20 7497 9504
Cybercandy
This is the place to find a favourite sugar rush to remind you of home or childhood - or both. See sweets, candy, drinks and brightly coloured curios from all corners of the world, including America, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, South Africa, Finland and Sweden.
3 Garrick Street WC2
Tel: +44 (0)20 7836 3785
www.cybercandy.co.uk
