For the Love of London

Writing about a book that bigs up London, might be a little rich coming from someone who chooses not to live in the capital; But that is not because I don't like the city- it's because I refuse to pay someone else's mortgage for a shoebox! 

At least by living in Brighton, I get a restricted sea view and only have to pay smelly Southern Rail an arm and a leg 2-3 times a week when I come up to play! But I digress....

This beautiful coffee table book, is edited by performance poet and writer Conrad Gamble.  Covering every corner of the capital, Gamble has called in quotes and anecdotes from characters and local legends, who all have something unique to say about the city, and give their insider's tips on what life means to them in London.

Choosing well known heros such as Dame Zaha Hadid to celebrity make up artist Charlotte Tilbury to Stephen Fry- who each pick a place, time or  memory to highlight what makes London great to them. Hearing first hand from those who have actively shaped the capital's appeal, you might be surprised at the areas that are applauded.   

From clubland's Princess Julia who gushes about the changing skylines and brutal reality which is accessible to all; To GQ magazine's Dylan Jones who enthuses about his homeland as a kaleidoscopic, polyphonic theme park, in which anyone and everyone is welcome to come and re-invent themselves to 55's fave graffiti guru Lee Bofkin who loves the diversity on the streets. 

There are memories of first love in Fulham, flowers in Mount Street Gardens and the Phoenix Cinema in East Finchley. 

Just as much a history book as a guide book, you can get an insight into a diverse range of eccentrics who together have a different approach and need to be in London, but who all have a  personal story, about what makes London great. 

​Buy yours here
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By Sara Darling