London for The Thrill Seekers: a Friday-to-Monday weekend
Two thousand years in layers, and a pint in every one.
You see a city from its hills, its water and its bike lanes. Early starts, real sweat, a hike or a paddle out of town, and the best recovery meals in the place.
Friday: Over the dome
- Up at The O2
A harnessed walk over the roof of the old Millennium Dome, 52 metres up, timed for sunset over Canary Wharf. Wear grippy shoes.
- The Cutty Sark Tavern
A bow-windowed riverside pub from 1695; fish and chips and a pint after the climb, with the Thames at the door.
Saturday: Cold water, chalk and curry
- Parliament Hill Lido
A 1930s open-air pool, unheated and open all year. The first lengths in autumn are a shock, the tea afterwards is earned.
- The Castle Climbing Centre
A Victorian pumping station turned into one of the country's tallest indoor climbing walls; day passes include shoe hire and a quick induction.
- Whitechapel Gallery
Free contemporary shows in a 1901 Arts and Crafts building, a calm hour to stretch out before dinner.
- Tayyabs
Punjabi grill with sizzling lamb chops and a dry-fry to share. Bring your own drinks and queue without complaint.
Sunday: Deer, ponds and treetops
- Richmond Park by bike
Hire a bike at the gate and ride the 10-kilometre perimeter road past red deer; go early, before the club cyclists fill it.
- Pembroke Lodge
A tea room with a terrace and a long view down the Thames valley; soup, a toastie and cake are the right fuel here.
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Climb the 18-metre Treetop Walkway, then see the Palm House; you will want at least two hours before the light fades.
Monday: Chalk and a fry-up
- Mile End Climbing Wall
A converted railway-arch climbing gym with bouldering and rope routes; the early slot is quiet and the staff are happy to set you a route.
- E Pellicci
A 1900s Italian caff with marquetry panels; the full English comes fast and sets you up for the flight home.