Welcome to South West London, the next area in our monthly series of guides to the capital’s finest establishments. This month we’ve got all you need for a chilled Saturday or Sunday in the city - from brunch through to an evening cinema date...
1. Gardenia of London
Located in Wimbledon Village, Teddington and Wandsworth Common, Gardenia of London started out as a simple flower stall on the Fulham Road in 1999. Now, the family run business is known for their luscious, rainbow-coloured pavement displays and their personal approach to each and every order, many of which are bespoke.
2. Farm Girl
If you’re big on health-conscious weekend brunch, head to Farm Girl Cafe next time you’re in Notting Hill, where you’ll find nourishing shots and elixirs, replenishing green juices and innovative coffees aplenty (we’re looking at you, Liquid Gold Latte). And when it comes to breakfast, we recommend the buckwheat flour pancakes that come served with amber maple syrup and topped with mixed berries and coconut shavings.
3. Victoria Windsor
Located in the heart of Pimlico, Victoria McCubbine’s almost eponymous floristry shop is your go-to for meticulously handcrafted flower arrangements, cards and gifts alike. As Victoria explains, “I wanted to create a place that offers a little more special than your average high street chain. I love it when I hear people say, ‘this is the shop I was telling you about!’ when they come in with a friend.”
4. Electric Cinema
For occasions when Vue or the Odeon just won’t do, catch a screening of your chosen action film, period drama, or chick flick at Notting Hill’s Electric Cinema. It’s located on Portobello Road and serves tastier-than-your-average cinema style snacks and alcoholic beverages that you can enjoy from your super plush armchair during the film. Better still, go on a Sunday and pay a visit to Portobello Market beforehand.
5. Petersham Nurseries
Whether you head to Richmond’s Petersham Nurseries in the summer or winter, you’re in for a treat - the garden-centre-come-eating-establishment quite literally changes with the seasons. Head to the Tea House - a glass house brimming with fragrant bougainvillea and jasmine, draped with Indian blinds and decorated with antique furniture, mirrors and paintings - to indulge in a spot of seasonal Italian-inspired food.
