Urbanologist and celebrated fashion photographer, Alistair Guy, shares with U his favourite spots in London...

Browns Hotel

The first hotel in London. Browns is an institution in itself, with cultural heritage ranging from Agatha Christie and Rudyard Kipling writing their novels there to Winston Churchill staying there during the blitz in the 1940s. The traditional tea was formed there and it is such a tranquil place to hang out. Time really does slow down and in this day and age when it is difficult to stop this is essential! The surroundings are full of contemporary art provided by local Mayfair galleries and the superb restaurant by HIX is quintessentially British.

Sosharu

Jason Atherton's latest venture is his eighth restaurant in London offering an exceptional sushi experience. Opened this year in March in the heart of Clerkenwell, it's conveniently close to the city which is a great meeting point anytime of day. The downstairs bar has a fun Japanese ambiance with an unusual vending machine and musical toilets which need to be checked out.

Century Club

I was first introduced to this private members clubs by an actor friend and have consequently shown one of my exhibitions here. During the day it's the perfect, quiet professional office and at night it's a lot of fun, particularly up on the rooftop which I believe is the biggest in the West End serving food and drinks day and night. It is an open top during the summer months which makes meeting there even more enjoyable.

Yolkin Macaron

The UK's first macaron ice cream sandwich. Opened earlier this year on Great Windmill Street in Covent Garden this is a small independent business operating a pop up cafe open during the weekends. It sells unique flavours of treats depending on the season or festivities, an example being black sesame or pumpkin spice. It's particularly appealing for the sweet tooths amongst us and you need to get there early in the day to avoid disappointment.

Club Cafe Royal

Historically this hotel has had patrons like Oscar Wilde and Mick Jagger hang out here. The legendary Grill Room has entertained the greatest and with its glorious golden decor, it's pure opulence. Nearly four years ago it was renovated to a very high and contemporary standard by David Chipperfield. The club on the first floor is a fantastic place to pass time and presently my images are decorating the wall space.

Alistair Guy is a celebrated fashion photographer who is a regular contributor to some of the world’s most notable fashion magazines, including British Vogue, Harper’s Bazar UK and i-D. Alongside his photography Alistair has been a brand ambassador for many esteemed companies such as Casio, Hunter and Aspinal of London. 

Ideal For

Being in the know...