London is of course the capital city, and boasts a huge population of around 8 million. But it has more green space than most cities, with American writer Bill Bryson calling it a forest in a city. It has excellent public transport too, so you can easily live car-free here most of the time. It’s also home to many initiatives like community gardens and orchards, there is always something going on to help local wildlife. Despite being a city, London is home to lots of wildlife from red deer to endangered stag beetles. Find more ways to help your local wildlife rescue and animal shelter.
London, Block-By-Block is an illustrated guide to England’s capital city. This compilation uncovers the best places to see, where to walk and what to do. With vibrant illustrations, find out where to jump on a bike and take a spin around Shoreditch or Hampstead. Or follow in the footsteps of the Suffragettes. From haunted spots to the best bookshops, romantic strolls and coffee shops, this book will make your next visit the most memorable yet. If walking with pooches, see the post of tips for safe dog walks (note that wisteria is highly toxic to pets, so keep them away).
Pretty Little London is a curated guide to the most chic, stylish and unique sites, inviting you on a stunning visual tour of the city. From galleries to park, find over 100 perfect places to explore, all year round. The authors also share advice on how to photograph these stunning locations. Whether you’re looking for a picturesque stroll through wisteria (toxic to pets, so keep them away), a romantic rooftop bar for a cocktail or an inspiring museum, this book has a host of offerings. There are even a few day trip suggestions, for weekend getaways. If walking with pooches, see the post of tips for safe dog walks. Sara Santini and Andrea Di Filippo are originally from Italy, and have called London their home for over 7 years. Their photography on hidden gems of cities is well-known, inspiring Londoners to get out of their comfort zone and wander.
How to Escape London (sometimes!)
No matter how green it is, many rural place lovers, sometimes need to get away from the city. Escape London: An Opinionated Guide is a book for anyone flirting with leaving the capital for good, or fancying a day trip to Margate or the South Downs for some much-needed country air, this small guide offers the best from coastal walks to boutique hotels to top restaurants and wild swimming. There is much to discover within a short train ride from the capital, to remind you that life is not as compressed as it seems!
How to Leave London offers compelling stories from 25 couples, families and individuals who have left the city (and still kept their work, inspiration and social lives. This proves there are many benefits to life outside the M25 beyond simply more space, and better air. Full of stunning photography, good advice, beautiful interiors and inspiring tales from a variety of people – single young professionals, retired couples, freelancers, office workers, renters and home-owners. This book may just tempt you to escape the city’s gravitational pull.
