Entrepreneur and socialite Nancy Dell’Olio, shares with U her favourite tips and hangouts, giving U an insight into her 'Perfect Day'.

How do you start your day?

I don’t have a strict routine, as my schedule varies so much, however I like to take advantage of as much of my day as possible. I start each and every day with a glass of hot water with lemon – it really boosts the metabolism and sets me up for the morning ahead. If I can, I also like to spend some time meditating and stretching. It calms me down and prepares me for whatever I have organised for the day.

Leisurely lunch go to? 

I do love a leisurely lunch, if I have the time! It’s so important to take a break in the middle of the day, so you can reflect on what you have achieved that morning and what you still have to do later that day. I usually have a light lunch of fish or chicken, with Mediterranean vegetables. I do love Scott´s for lunch with friends, however in London I think you are so spoiled for choice that it is impossible for me to pick just one favourite!

Favourite way to pass the time in London?

There are so many ways to pass time in London! My diary is usually so filled that I don’t get much leisure time during the day. However, on the rare occasion that I do, I’ll usually spend it having lunch with friends and a spot of shopping! I also like going for long walks – London has such fabulous parks and greenery, and so much beautiful architecture to take in. I also enjoy perusing the wonderful galleries the city has to offer.

Favourite London landmarks, and why? 

I love all of the classics – Tower Bridge, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament. They all have a part to play in London’s distinctive history and culture. Although my favourite landmark has to be The Shard. You can get the most stunning views from the viewing platform at the very top, and it really is the epitome of contemporary architecture.

Tipple of choice and favourite cocktail hangout? 

Champagne! I like to have a glass a day, that’s my guilty pleasure. I also love the cocktails created with my new drink, Limonbello which is based on an old family recipe, and is entirely sugar-free. The Limonbello Margarita is my favourite. Limonbello pairs perfectly with tequila, as both drinks are completely alkaline. But I also enjoy a Limonbello Mojito and a ‘Limonsecco’ – Limonbello mixed with prosecco.

Favourite dining destinations, and why? 

It totally depends on who I’m with! I have lots of favourite spots, which change based on whether I’m with family, or with friends, or on a date! Whilst I am adventurous with food, I know that I will never be let down by the wide variety of Italian restaurants in London – Harry’s Bar does the best Italian food!

Final stop for a nightcap, and why?

I like to socialise all over London – so my final stop for a nightcap is entirely dependent on whereabouts I am in the city. I love the West End of London, and I quite often find myself enjoying some champagne or a cocktail in Chiltern Firehouse. I also love Groucho Club, in Soho. It’s a beautiful space.

Best hangover remedy?

I like to sleep for as long as I can when I’m hungover, but if I am up and about I drink as much water as possible. It’s very important to stay hydrated. Although, failing all of that, why not crack open another bottle of champagne?

Where next on your travels?

I will be going to Puglia in the south of Italy, and then on to Patmos in Greece for a short holiday. I will then be heading to Venice, as Limonbello is a sponsor of Venice Film Festival – I’m most looking forward to it!

Born in New York and raised in Italy, Nancy Dell’Olio has forged a successful career in a number of fields. Trained as a lawyer, she practiced for several years before being introduced to the spotlight and adopting a number of television and presenting roles where she soon became a household name in the UK.

Strongly influenced by the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle, Nancy recently launched her own brand of the classic Italian liqueur limoncello – Limonbello.  The drink is based on a family recipe, as Nancy recalls her grandmother making limoncello at home when she was a child. Putting her own spin on the liqueur, Limonbello is completely sugar-free and is one of the few alkaline drinks on the market. The drink successfully launched in the summer of 2016, and is now stocked exclusively at Fortnum & Mason, London.

Nancy also supports a number of charitable projects, including British Red Cross and CharityStars.