London for The Curious Wanderers: a Friday-to-Monday weekend
Two thousand years in layers, and a pint in every one.
No theme, just the city at its best. The sights that earn their reputation, a workshop or a market, one strange place nobody told you about, and dinner where the food is the point.
Friday: Harry Potter's market and a kebab
- Leadenhall Market
A Victorian covered market in painted ironwork, quiet on a Friday afternoon after the lunch crowd has gone.
- Lahore Kebab House
A packed, no-nonsense Pakistani grill with sizzling lamb chops and fresh naan. Bring cash and your own drinks.
Saturday: Bermondsey hands-on, Hackney strange
- London Glassblowing
A workshop where you blow your own glass paperweight or bauble under a glassmaker's direction; booking is essential.
- Casse-Croûte
A small French bistro with a chalkboard menu of steak tartare, boudin noir and a very good wine list.
- Fashion and Textile Museum
Founded by Zandra Rhodes, a bright pink and orange building with rotating shows on clothing and cloth.
- Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities
A cabinet of taxidermy, shrunken heads and odd art, with a cocktail bar below; the entry fee includes a drink.
Sunday: Flowers, rooms and a roast
- Columbia Road Flower Market
Every Sunday the street fills with stalls selling cut flowers and plants, shouted at you by sellers with a patter.
- Museum of the Home
A row of almshouses from 1714 with period living rooms from across 400 years; the herb garden is free.
- The Marksman
An old East End pub that serves a serious Sunday roast and a proper pie; book ahead.
Monday: Mail Rail and a wine lunch
- The Postal Museum
Ride the narrow-gauge Mail Rail through tunnels that once carried letters under London; the carriages are small.
- Noble Rot
A wine bar and restaurant run by wine obsessives, with a short British menu and excellent bottles by the glass.