This tropical corner of London is to be found off Monmouth Street in Seven Dials, a series of streets filled with shops, restaurants, bars and cafes linking Covent Garden to Soho. Accessed down a hidden side street which can be easily missed, you step out into this colourful courtyard. The shop most associated with this address is Neal's Yard Remedies which has sold beauty and skincare products for over 30 years. Cafes and their customers spill out into the courtyard filling it with laughter adding to the bohemian atmosphere.
'Don't ask what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive and go do it. because what the world needs is people who have come alive.'
Howard Thurman
When you share a city with 5 million other people, I am always looking for a quiet side street to wander down to escape city life. Known as Mews, these cobbled streets also have a story to tell as they were originally used to house the horses and carriages of the big houses in 18th and 19th century before cars became mainstream. They are now some of prettiest and most exclusive streets in London. Some of my favourites include Warren Mews, Kynance Mews and Queen's Gate Mews.
'Life moves forward. The old leaves wither, die and fall away, the new growth extends forward into the light.'
Bryant McGill
A 5 minute walk away from the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh's city centre is the tranquil Dean Village. For over 800 years this village harnessed the power of the Water of Leith to drive the mills grinding grain. These striking red brick buildings make up Well Court, built in 1880s for mill workers and is now the spot of the most famous washing line In Edinburgh!
'You'll never change your life until you change something you do daily. The secret of your success is found in your daily routine.'
John C. Maxwell
During the month of August, the population of Edinburgh doubles in size as the largest arts festival in the world takes over the city. Established in 1947, the Edinburgh International Festival was created as a platform to celebrate the performing arts and share it with audiences from around the world. The beginnings of The Edinburgh Festival Fringe also began that year when 8 uninvited theatre groups staged their shows across the city.
'Be a voice, not an echo.'
Unknown
Spanning 35km, the Water of Leith originates in the Pentland Hills, flowing through Happerrig Reservoir. It winds it way through the southern residential outskirts of Edinburgh, cutting through the deep gorge of Dean Village, flowing north, towards Leith Docks and the Firth of Forth. Many attractions along its route including the Union Canal, Scottish Galley of Modern Art, St Bernard's Well and The Royal Botanic Gardens. A great place to walk, run, cycle and explore just follow the river!
'All that we see and seem is but a dream within a dream.'
Edgar Allen Poe
Originally built in 1789, this Georgian Townhouse on Bushfield Street has been the site of a shop since 1805. Acquired over 20 years ago by novelist turned business woman Jeanette Winterson, she restored the shop and the 1930s sign - found wrapped up in the basement- to its former glory. Now a deli and popular cafe it sells everything from chorizo to chocolate, and is definitely worth a pitstop when in Spitalfields for hot chocolate and a photo or 2!
'Don't judge each day but he harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant.'
Robert Louis Stevenson
A short walk from this pretty townhouse is the Chelsea Physic Garden. This city sanctuary, with its winding paths, hidden corners and glasshouses is one of my favourite escapes. Its primary function is to conserve the importance and benefit of plants on humankind, whether in medicine, the environment, culturally or our economy. At the centre of the garden stands Sir Hans Sloane, once an apprentice of the apothecaries, he later purchased the ground, ensuring the garden’s survival to this day and more importantly introduced hot chocolate to the Western World.
There is only one success, to be able to spend your life in your own way.'
Christopher Morley
I love old signs that have weathered the years and leave a lasting reminder of how our city streets once looked. Donovan Bros Ltd. are a family business who has sold packaging products having first becoming established 75 years when they started out selling paper bags.
'Paper has more patience than people.'
Anne Frank
Located in Vauxhall, the market is the largest fruit, vegetable and flower market in the UK. With over 200 business under its roof, it supplies 75% of London Florists. I visited at Christmas time and it was eye opening to see the inner workings of a market, the people, sights, sounds and of course, the flowers! Go with empty hands and be sure to head to get a bacon and egg sandwich to warm them as you wander.
'Anyone who takes the time to be kind is beautiful.'
Richelle E. Goodrich
No longer just an app, Instagram allows you to be transported and to see the world through the camera lens of others. As an avid explorer I am always on the look out for new places to try and Instagram gives me an incentive to find these to photograph so I can share them with others. Before I travel I research my destination by using local hashtags to find coffee shops, beautiful buildings, street art and museums - no one like a local Instagrammer knows the best spots in their town! This potential has been used by Pathport and Townske to encourage locals to create guides to ensure you make the most of what their city has to offer.
'People don't take trips....trips take people.'
John Steinbeck
Perfectly situated on the corner of Elizabeth Street and Ebury Street you will find Peggy Porschen. Pink inside and out, choose from three tiered cakes or perfectly piped cupcakes to enjoy in their parlour - my favourite is the salted caramel. Once you have satisfied your sweet tooth, wander down Ebury Street and look out for the plaque which bears the name of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. A short walk away under the trees of Orange Square you will also find a bronze statue of him which commemorates his brief residence in London as a boy.
'I didn't always know what I wanted to do, but I always knew the woman I wanted to be.'
Diane Von Furstenburgh
I love city life but every so often I need to escape and Kew Gardens helps restore me without the flight. The humid atmosphere of the Glasshouses immediately transports you to a warmer climate as the English rain hammers outside. Once a private haven for Queen Charlotte, the grounds around her 18th century thatched cottage become a floor of purple when the Bluebells flower in late April and early May. Suspended 18 meters above the woodland floor, walk through the tree top canopy where you can look out over the city before you return to London life.
'The world is but a canvas to our imagination.'
Henry David Thoreu
Located in south west London, the village of Barnes sits on the edge of the Thames and is a tranquil haven 30 minutes away from city life. Visit the London Wetlands Centre, stroll past independent boutiques down to Barnes Pond. Grab lunch in the Sun Inn and sit out in the Beer Garden. Finish with afternoon tea in Orange Pekoe and watch the sunset over the river.
'Whether you think you can or think you can't, you are right.'
Henry Ford
London's most recognisable landmark, St Paul's is the fifth to stand on this site since 604. The previous being destroyed by the Great Fire of London, Wren's vision took over 35 years to build. Step inside to discover Baroque interiors and the history within its walls. But no visit would be complete without ascending 528 steps to the top! Discover the origins of the Whispering Gallery's name; up to the Stone Gallery, which encircles the outside of the dome, keep going until you reach the Golden Gallery. Here you will be rewarded with magnificent views out over London as far as the eye can see.
'We can complain because rose bushes have thorns or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.' Abraham Lincoln
After working and living in Oxford for two years as nurse, I decided it was time for a change of city scenery. London had been calling and I answered. I packed my bags, said my farewells, and with a little bit of help, I moved to London to begin the next chapter of my life in June 2016.
I have always taken photos of my surroundings and having been lucky enough to live in some great cities, I am ultimately drawn to the details that make an urban environment unique. I love going on photo walks around a city, I normally choose an area to explore and make sure theres a cafe stop along the way. But sometimes the best photos are captured by chance - a passing stranger, car or beam of light during golden hour which capture that memory forever.
'I walk slowly, but I never walk backward.'
Abraham Lincoln
One of my favourite colleges to visit in Oxford, is Magdalen College which was founded 1458. Located on the edge of the city centre the grounds of the college cover 100 acres and along with the student population, its other residents include a herd of Fallow Deer who roam the grounds. More notable figures who have stalked the quads include Sir John Betjeman, Oscar Wilde and C.S. Lewis.
'Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.'
Henry David Thoreau
London is always viewed as a sprawling metropolis but it becomes more manageable when divided up into a series of villages. These communities have independent businesses, farmers markets and picturesque green spots which give these areas their distinctive character. My favourites include Hampstead, where I have spent many a sunny afternoon on the Heath. Breezing down the river on the Thames Clipper to Greenwich. Exploring Richmond Green, followed by a wander along the Thames to Petersham Nurseries.
'How old would you be if you didn't know how old you are.'
Satchel Paige
Only an hour by train from London and known for its beautiful sandstone colleges, Oxford is a lovely compact city to explore on a day out. One of my favourite areas in Jericho, which has cafes, restaurants and bars aplenty, independent shops, cinema and a pastel street! A few favourites include Barefoot - a cute cafe with an impressive array of cakes. A visit to Illyria Pottery will ensure you covet every one of her handmade pieces. The Bookbinders and The Rickety Press for food and for drinks, Freuds, Oxford Wine Cafe and Raoul's for their legendary cocktails.
'Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.'
R. Collier
This view make look familiar to some as this beautifully carved stone staircase and the room it leads to where used in Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone. At the top of the staircase, The Great Hall, used by university students for their meals became the inspiration for the dining hall in all of the Harry Potter films. The Bodleian Library, New College and The Divinity School can also be spotted in the films.
'The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination.'
Albert Einstein
Beloved by locals and visitors alike this emporium is maze of treasures just waiting to be discovered. Most recently it's eye catching red exterior was used in Paddington, released in 2014. One Friday, when exploring Portobello Road, I stopped to admire the impressive collection of collectibles when a girl, browsing with a cup of coffee in hand, slipped in my frame.
I was incredibly honoured that this photo was selected and printed in "Life on Instagram" a collection of images carefully curated by Penguin Art Director Jim Stoddart.
'People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed; never throw anyone out.'
Audrey Hepburn
One of London's main attractions is The RHS Chelsea Flower Show, showcasing the best of horticultural excellence at The Royal Hospital in Chelsea every May. To co-inside with this event the shops decorate their facades, and the streets of Chelsea bloom with colour as each design competes. In 2016 the Ivy Garden adorned their facade with this spectacular assortment of flowers.
'The earth laughs in flowers.'
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Known as the High Street to the locals, The Royal Mile as the name suggest connects the historic fortress of Edinburgh Castle to the official Royal Residence of The Palace of Holyroodhouse. When at home in Edinburgh I love wandering the Royal Mile and exploring the unique labyrinth of closes, vennels and wynds. From Fleshmarket to Fisher's Close these narrow passageways take you back in time when residents of Medieval Edinburgh would have to dodge waste being thrown from the window when they heard shouts of 'Gardy Loo'!
'Nothing behind me, everything ahead of me, as is ever on the road.'
Jack Kerouac
Located at the bottom of Cockburn Street, The Milkman is the perfect pitstop on a wander exploring the nooks and crannies of Edinburgh's Old Town. The beautifully restored stone interiors create a cosy sanctuary in which to enjoy their artisan coffee and sweet treats. After you have refuelled explore the independent shops, boutiques and cafes that Cockburn Street has to offer.
'The idea that is not to live forever but to create something that will.'
Andy Warhol
The streets of Edinburgh are steeped in history, but they also hide a gruesome past and have many tales to tell. Not far from this spot is Deacon Brodie's Tavern, named after William Brodie, a prestigious man of 17th century Edinburgh. A respected cabinet maker and city councillor by day, but by night he became a thief to fund his lifestyle of gambling and mistresses. By using his knowledge and position, he was able to gain access to the richest houses in Edinburgh. This secret double life is also said to have inspired Robert Louis Stevenson while he was writing The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.
'Growing old is mandatory, but growing up is optional.'
Walt Disney
Stockbridge is one of my favourite areas in Edinburgh. The main thoroughfare is lined with independent boutiques, artisan larder suppliers and some of the best stocked charity shops in Edinburgh. A few of my favourites include Peter'sYard, for Swedish baking, independent bookshop Golden Hare Books, Tom Kitchen's answer to pub food The Scran and Scallie and I never miss an opportunity to browse the rails in Barnado's! Edinbugh's most Instagrammable street Circus Lane is not to be missed and if you visit on a Sunday stop for lunch at the Stockbridge Market.
'Every single thing that has ever happened in your life is preparing you for a moment that is yet to come.'
Unknown
Named in the top 10 cities to visit by Lonely Planet in 2015, Salisbury is a unique mix of old and new. It's streets are an architectural timeline of Tudor Timber Houses, Georgian Townhouses and Victorian Terraces. Within the city walls you can also find a buzzing high street, thriving market and yearly arts festival. Seen for miles around it's Medieval Cathedral has the tallest spire in Europe and is home to the Magna Carta. Only 90 minutes from London Waterloo, its the perfect weekend escape.
'Life was meant to be lived and curiosity must be kept alive. One must never, for whatever reason, turn his back on life.'
Eleanor Roosevelt
Oxford Colleges have some beautiful gardens which are open to visitors. Depending on the season, expect to see snowdrops, bluebells, wisteria, roses and ivy covering a building from head to toe. Though be sure to obey the keep off the grass signs! After photographing these white hydrangeas at Magdalen College my friend and I took a break and visited their cafe. Take your tea out onto their Riverside Terrace and watch people get to grip with their punts! *Pitcher of Pimms optional.
'With freedom, books, flowers and the moon, who could not be happy.'
Oscar Wilde
Arthur Ignaitus Conan Doyle was born on 22 May 1859 at Picardy Place, Edinburgh. After his father's death he was sent to school in England but returned years later to study Medicine. It was here that he encountered Surgeon and Lecturer Joseph Bell. His profound powers of observation aided in the diagnosis of his patients and this ability sparked Doyle's imagination and he became the inspiration for the character of Sherlock Holmes. Sadly Conan Doyle's medical career did not take off and he pursued his love of writing in between patient appointments and the adventures of the detective that lived at 221B Baker Street was born.
'To a great mind, nothing is little.'
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Offering some of the best views of Copenhagen this 17th century tower is the oldest functioning Observatory in Europe. Its unique spiral equestrian staircase was built to enable the passage of equipment transported by house and cart. It is now one of the top attractions in Copenhagen and its light filled spiral corridor creates a wonderful space to photograph anyone running past!
'The question isn't who is going to let me; its who is going to stop me.'
Ayn Rand
Working all hours of the day and night makes coordinating diaries difficult and rather than being put off by this I have learnt to embrace being by myself. I have always been at ease in my own company and since becoming a nurse this time has become even more precious as it allows me to recharge and more importantly pursue my passion for photography. The most memorable days for me are when I have been exploring a new place on my own. As well as trying to tick off every place with a train station in the UK I have also travelled solo to Copenhagen, Amsterdam and Paris.
'Some steps need to be taken alone. It's the only way to figure out where you really need to be.'
Mandy Hale
The Grand Cafe lies behind a blue and gold gilded facade: boasting to be standing on the site go the oldest coffee house in England, believed to have been established in 1650. Customers can enjoy their mirrored interiors whilst enjoying breakfast, lunch or something more decadent in the form of afternoon tea, not forgetting their cocktails.
'Happiness is a direction, not a place.'
Sydney Harris
I first fell in love with the colourful city of Bristol through the Instagram feeds of @monalogue , @kymgrimshaw and @porthjess as what better way to see a city, than through the eyes of a local? But visit Bristol for yourself and discover how much this great city has to offer. When you exit Temple Meads Station, this flower stall will be there to greet you.
'The love we give away is the only love we keep.'
Elbert Hubbard
These colourful mews are to be found in London's Museum Quarter, otherwise known as South Kensington. Emersed in a room of treasures is one of my favourite ways to while away couple of hours. Inside and out, the Natural History Museum never fails to amaze me and their yearly Wildlife Photography exhibition always leaves me feeling inspired. Across the road get lost within the spectacular labyrinth of rooms at the V&A and visit the magnificent tea rooms for a well earned tea break.
'The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago. The second best time is now.'
African Proverb
Originally an Abbey Garden and once home to London's Fruit and Vegetable Market, Covent Garden has always been a hive of activity. Whatever the season there is always something to snap from carts of country garden flowers, Charles Petillon installation of 100,000 white balloons and you can even kiss under the mistletoe at Christmas.
I was overwhelmed that this image was selected by @siobhaise as part of an Instagram Gallery showcasing London and Covent Garden as part of Covent Garden After Hours in July 2016.
'Always be on the lookout for the presence of wonder.'
E. B. White
Magdalen Bridge spans the River Cherwell and is at the centre of the traditional May Day celebrations that take place in Oxford every year. These start with the choir of Magdalen College singing from the Great Tower which overlooks the bridge. Locals and students alike gather on the bridge below and listen to the bells ring out over the dreaming spires of Oxford as dawn breaks and the sun rises on a new day.
'Everyone has talent. What's rare is the courage to follow it to the dark places where it leads.'
Erica Jong
Oxford's most famous building the Radcliffe Camera - camera being Latin for room - sits at the centre of Radcliffe Square. Opened in 1749, the Radcliffe Library, funded by Dr John Radcliffe an eminent academic, physician and politician, was thus independent of the Bodleian Libraries. One of the oldest libraries in Europe its vast collection of 12 million items is stored above and below ground. Within the libraries is The Divinity School, its beautiful fan vaulted ceiling is not to be missed.
'If you can imagine it; you can achieve it; if you can dream it; you can become it.'
William Arthur Ward
Once the site of slums and poverty, East London is now a mecca for foodies and fashionistas, with independent cafes, boutiques and markets. On the boundary of Shoreditch, is Arnold Circus, part of the Boundary Estate which was one of the first council estates. Recognisable for its distinctive red brick work, Arnold Circus opened in 1896 and thus followed a Victorian social experiment which changed the cities of Britain. Now a Grade 2 listed building the area is home to Leila's Shop and Paper & Cup Cafe.
'The most important decision you will ever make is to be in a good mood.'
Voltaire
In a city where above and below the ground is becoming increasing crowded, and the phase 'the sky's the limit' does no longer apply, how do you create your own garden in London? Home owners have solved this problem by using every available window sill, doorstep, roof and wall to add plants pots, trees and climbers. However depending on the season this can make getting through the door a bit of a challenge!
'How wild it was, to let it be.'
Cheryl Strayed
A British symbol, The Red Phone Box was the result of a competition in 1924 to find a National Kiosk. The winning design came from architect, Sir Giles Gibert Scott, whose original prototype of the K2 design can be found beneath the arch of The Royal Academy in London. In 1935, to commemorate the silver jubilee of King George V, the Post Office commissioned a new kiosk by Scott. The K6 or Jubilee Kiosk as it became know can still be found in 11,000 locations in Britain today as seen here by the Houses of Parliament.
'Be brave enough to start a conversation that matters.'
Margaret Wheatley