UNIQLO, the global apparel retailer, has launched a major global photography exhibition in collaboration with internationally renowned Magnum Photos. Titled ‘PEACE FOR ALL,’ this free public exhibition has been unveiled in one of London's largest outdoor gallery spaces, Coal Drops Yard until the end of October 2024. Set across the expansive 67-acre estate at King’s Cross, visitors will discover over 60 powerful images captured by acclaimed Magnum photographers Cristina de Middel, Lindokuhle Sobekwa, and Olivia Arthur for UNHCR (the UN Refugee Agency), Save the Children, and Plan International.   These striking photographs, captured in Vietnam, Ethiopia, and Romania, shed light on the incredible stories behind UNIQLO’s PEACE FOR ALL initiative, which includes a range of T-shirts adorned with images from the exhibition, which can be purchased in UNIQLO stores, The charity celebrates raising more than 1.5 billion yen (approx. US$10 million) to date. Coal Drops Yard is located just minutes from Kings Cross and St Pancras Station, with more than 50 shops, cafes, bars and restaurants for visitors to enjoy alongside the exhibition space. For more information visit: https://www.kingscross.co.uk/whats-on Written by Claire Bloom

Step into the heart of London’s bustling Marylebone Village, a premier destination for shopping and dining, now with exciting new opportunities to explore its rich history. Join local expert Rosalind Vincent of Wide Eyed London on October 5th as she uncovers the hidden gems of Marylebone, meeting at the new Elm Leaf installation celebrating the 70-year-old elm tree the survived dutch elm disease and World War 2. Saunter along Moxon Street, well known for its foodie scene, peruse the many independent shops on Marylebone Lane and New Cavendish Street. Participants will enjoy exclusive discounts and complimentary refreshments from some of the area’s flagship stores and eateries as well as some goodies. Time: 10:30am - 12:00pm Meet: Underneath the new installation ‘The Elm Leaf’ at the southern end of Marylebone Lane Price: £20 per person (+ £1.50 booking fee; tickets are non-refundable but transferable). For more information visit https://www.marylebonevillage.com/whats-on-and-features/item/1366-marylebone-village-walking-tour Tickets:  https://www.tickettailor.com/events/wideeyedlondon/1240722 Written by Claire Selby  Photography by Nyla Sammons

For 100s of years, Soho has been London’s go-to district for the thrill seekers, party goers, lushes and libertines. Amongst the bustling streets and alleys, you’ll find remnants of Soho’s red-light history in its handful of sex shops, strip clubs and sex-positive bars juxtaposed against sophisticated cocktail establishments, boutique shops and eateries. Soho is the epicenter of the LBGT community and is drenched in a rich musical past. For each brick in every building there’s a tale to tell about the area’s colourful past including stories from the Stones to Hendrix to the Krays. It’s a great place to people watch, whether it be from a seat outside My Place Soho or standing on the pavement with a coffee or even cocktail in hand. Where to shop There are myriad options for a shopping spree around Soho, with unique independents and a generous handful of larger brands. Some of London’s most interesting boutiques can be found along Berwick Street , which is also home to one of London’s oldest markets. Top Record Store Picks Vinyl lover? With soho’s rich musical past, you are spoilt for choice with four incredible record stores in close proximity. Flip through a colossal selection of LPs, 45’s and CD’s ranging from rock to pop, jazz to soul, electronica to punk, and much more. On Berwick Street you will find longstanding stores Sister Ray and Reckless records which was featured on the front cover of the Oasis album – (What’s the Story) Morning Glory. Just a few streets nearby are Phonica Records , and if world music is your bag, Sounds of the Universe  boasts the largest selection of Reggae, Dubstep, House, Disco, Funk and Soul, Brazilian, Latin, African and world beats in the UK. Universal Works Founded in 2009 at designer David Keyte’s kitchen table, Universal Works provides contemporary menswear underpinned by a strong understanding of the heritage of the clothes. With influences from 70s working-class midlands, 80s sportswear and music, and over 30 years of fashion experience, David’s collections include workwear, military touches, a good selection of colours and exclusive collaborations. Cubitts “Disruptor” may be an overused term these days but it’s a term that seems to suit Cubbits quite well. The exquisite eyewear producers are on a mission to bring a 300 year old industry up to date, focusing more on sustainable, well-designed and perfectly fitting spectacles over pretentious sales techniques and excessive wastage. From classic styles to fun, contemporary and colourful frames, Cubitts stock a plethora of eye-catching (pardon the pun) sunglasses, spectacles and accessories. With a principle of “timelessness” Cubitts prefer the term Redux to Sustainability, promising a complimentary frame rehab after one year of ownership, and repairs and readjustments for life. Donations and recycling are encouraged, with unsold stock being donated to eye-health charities in Kenya and Ethiopia. Head on downstairs to see the store’s deep red basement, where you will find a collection of limited-edition sunglasses and an eye-examination room. Footpatrol Born in 2002, world-renowned Footpatrol is 20 years old, and its flagship store can still be found in Soho.  Known for queues around the block, Footpatrol specialise in top-end, limited edition and exclusive sneakers from a small collection of brands. Be the envy of your friends and get your hands on a pair of trainers that no one else has got. Sunspel Sunspel have been producing garments since 1860, they specialise in luxury, timeless everyday classics for men and women as well as a rotating selection of exciting collaborations and carefully curated guest brands. Having created some of the world’s first t-shirts, they are now the only brand that makes t-shirts in their very own factory in the UK, and it’s the same factory they have occupied since 1937. But don’t be fooled by the history, Suspel still maintains a contemporary edge to their designs. Bleach London Not the first place in our guide to start from a kitchen.  Alongside best friend and business partner Sam, Stylist Alex Brownsell has grown Bleach London from dying their mate’s hair over the sink to the world’s first salon focussed on colour over cutting. They are known for their colourful hair creations, walk in and out and be the talk of the town! Now with a strong product range of D-I-Y kits, you can be sure to give your hair the wow factor at home too. Bleach London uses vegan products, proving you don’t need nasty chemicals to create works of art. Berwick Street Market Dating back to 1778, Berwick Street Market is one of London’s oldest markets. Today it’s a real favourite among the locals and visitors, a mix of street-food traders selling an array of cuisines alongside traditional fruit, veg and flower sellers. Where to Eat & Drink It would take a lifetime to eat & drink your way around Soho’s ample coffee shops, swanky bars and restaurants serving up cuisine from all corners of the globe. From brunches to lunches, fine-dining out to going out-out. Here are some of our faves. S ö derberg Bakery For anyone familiar with the Swedish concept of Fika – making time to connect with friends and colleagues over coffee and a bite to eat – Söderberg is the place for you. The Berwick Street cafe serves brunch classics and an array of authentically Swedish cakes, buns, waffles and open sandwiches to enjoy with your friends over a coffee. For those who prefer to connect over a tipple or two, later crowds can enjoy cocktails with a Scandi twist (try the Fika Martini)  accompanied by platters, Smörrebröd, and savoury waffles. Zahter Marvel at the blue-tiled, marble-topped bar and chef’s counter that surrounds a wood and charcoal fired oven at Zahter , a sought-after restaurant specialising in the rich and mixed ethnic heritages of Istanbul cuisine. Expect rich and vibrant flavours from seasonal ingredients such as artichokes, quality olive oils and seafood. Look out for the Kofte Kibbeh and the Kofte & Piyaz and don’t even think about leaving without trying the Baklava, pistachio (sweet, flaky and buttery, it’s dreamy!). Add a touch of Turkish warm hospitality and you are in for a treat. Cahoots Set in an abandoned train station, The scoundrels of speakeasy Cahoots transport you back to the 1940s with a raucous mix of cocktails, “rationed” snacks and live entertainment. With a choice of the underground, Ticket Hall or Control Room, Cahoots is a place to get your swing on. Stay late enough and enjoy the live music!  The Vault Beneath Milroy’s Quietly slip past the whiskey sipping crowd at Milroy’s and give the bookcase a push. You’ll swiftly be transported into a moody, candle-lit underground speakeasy with brick walls, and a variety of expertly crafted, smokey cocktails. Whiskey is the focus at the vault but that’s not to say there isn’t the odd mezcal delight and more. La Bodega Negra Sex shop or bar? you’d be forgiven for thinking either. Technically a Mexican restaurant, La Bodega Negra’s neon “peep show” signs may attract the occasional accidental perv, who would be unsuspecting all the way down until they reached the mild-mannered restaurant.  Beyond the delicious food, the drinks menu includes some of the smokiest and spicy mezcal and tequila-based cocktails, with 40 tequilas and 15 mezcals to choose from. Try one with a jalapeno kick to get you going. Bar Italia Opened in 1949 as a social hub for Soho’s large Italian community, Bar Italia is responsible for kicking off London’s cafe culture. Open from 7am until 5am the next day it’s the perfect place for an early morning or late night coffee hit. While you’re there, check out the original floor laid by Uncle Torini. It has lasted the test of time and, alongside the original Gaggia coffee machine, it is an important symbol of the cafe’s heritage. Jazz & Blues Soho’s has a rich musical history and no self-respecting roundup would be right without these two honorable mentions. Jazz came to the UK via Soho, with clubs such as Ronnie Scott’s  and  Ain’t Nothin’ But… paving the way and they are still as banging today as they were back when.  LGBT+ Scene Old Compton Street is at the heart of Soho’s LGBT+ scene, and you’ll find plenty of gay-friendly venues to grab a drink or party the night away. The Village on Wardour Street is one of the oldest gay bars in Soho, while The Yard ‘s  Victorian courtyard on Rupert Street is a great place for a drink, over the summer months, the terrace is opened. G-A-Y is an institution, located on Old Compton Street, the garish pink sign emblazoned on the door will lure you in for the night of your life. For more information on Soho visit: https://www.thisissoho.co.uk Words and photography by Nyla Sammons

From classic G&T’s to mixed drinks with all the botanicals your imagination can conjure, gin based drinks are some of the most exciting ways to get creative with your flavour combinations. But let’s face it, to create the perfect drink, you need to start with a quality base, and Greenall’s, recognised as the original London Dry Gin - has been producing the nations favourite spirit since 1761, so they know a thing or two. 

 The quality gin, handcrafted by England’s oldest gin distillery in Warrington includes a fabulous range of flavoured gins, the perfect base for crafting some fabulous mixed drinks. Here are a few recipes to get you started. Signature Serve - Greenall’s Original London Dry Gin G&T Ingredients 50ml Greenall’s Original London Dry Gin 100ml Premium Tonic Water 2 Wedges of Lime Method Fill a tall glass of ice and squeeze in one of the lime wedges. Pour in Greenall’s Gin and top up with tonic water. Garnish with the second lime wedge Greenall’s Basil Smash  Ingredients 50 ml Greenall’s Gin  25 ml fresh lemon syrup 12.5 ml sugar syrup  8 torn fresh basil leaves  Method Add basil to the base of the cocktail shaker and muddle gently. Add Greenall’s Gin and remaining ingredients. Shake over ice and strain into an ice-filled tumbler glass.  Greenall’s Wild Berry Gin G&T Ingredients 50ml Greenall’s Wild Berry | Strawberries | 150ml Elderflower Tonic Method Crush Strawberry, add ice and pour over the other ingredients in a highball glass. Garnish with strawberry slices Stockists and RRP’s Greenall’s Original London Dry Gin Paper Bottle ABV: 37.5% RRP: 70cl from £17 Available from: Sainsbury’s and The Whisky Exchange Greenall’s Original London Dry Gin Glass Bottle ABV: 37.5% RRP: 70cl from £15 Available from: Sainsbury’s, Amazon and The Whiskey Exchange Greenall’s Wild Berry Gin ABV: 37.5% RRP: 70cl from £15 Available from: Sainsbury’s and Amazon For more information visit www.greenallsgin.com Photography courtesy of Greenall’s The Orginal Dry Gin

Lovers of the Espresso Martini, rejoice! From September 19th to 29th, the Mr Black Espresso Martini Festival is making its grand return to celebrate one of the UK’s favourite cocktails in spectacular fashion. Sponsored by Mr Black Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur, this year’s festival promises to be bigger, bolder, and more delicious than ever before. Bringing unique takes on the Espresso Martini to some of the country’s hottest bars and restaurants. This 10-day celebration of the much-loved coffee infused cocktail will take place in over 75 venues across the UK, each with its own spin on the ever popular Espresso Martini. Expect creative takeovers, exclusive one-off serves, and indulgent pairings that will take this iconic drink to new heights. From London to Leeds and Glasgow, top bartenders will be shaking things up, creating fresh, bold, and delicious variations. One of London’s cocktail artists, Giorgia Di Stefano of Demon Wise & Partners, will be serving up “The Cool One”—a delectable blend of Mr Black Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur, Coole Swan Irish Liqueur, Vodka, Espresso, and Sugar Syrup. For those who enjoy the art of cocktail making, expect techniques like clarification, carbonation, smoking, infusing, and foaming, as some of the UK’s best mixologists serve up innovative espresso cocktails that are as stunning as they are sippable. Each venue was hand-picked by Mr Black’s team, using their expert coffee and cocktail knowledge to create an exceptional experience. From trendy bars to cozy cocktail dens, the participating spots will spotlight Mr Black’s Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur, which stands out with its rich, robust flavour profile. Crafted from specialty-grade Arabica coffee and premium Australian vodka. Mr Black delivers a smooth, balanced taste with every sip, making it the go-to liqueur for an outstanding Espresso Martini. For more details visit  https://www.mrblack.co/en-gb/espresso-martini-fest You can also purchase your very own bottle of Mr Black Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur at Waitrose, Amazon and other spirit retailers. Mr Black Espresso Martini Festival London Venues include: Archive & Myth, London Balans, London Bantof, London Bodeans, London CTC, London Demon Wise And Partners, London Dram, London Red Hand, London Surbitionan Vine, London   Written by Lorna Byrne Photography by Guy Davies

This October sees the return of Oktoberfest taking place at Clapham Common, from the 11th to 19th October. Beer and sausage fans, this is a must-visit! Once inside, you will be able to indulge in traditional bratwurst, spicy currywurst, along with gluten-free and vegan options . It’s not just sausage and beer on the agenda, there’ll be a live brass band providing traditional Bavarian music, funfair rides, photo booths, keg-tapping and a round of the traditional Bavarian game, hammerschlagen. Tickets start at £31.50 for the ‘Super Early Brewer’ session. If you're rolling with a group, why not go all out with a VIP table for six? It’s £37.50 per person, which includes entry, reserved seating, table service, and fast-track access. Tickets can be purchased via Skiddle  or Oktoberfest on the Common’s site at www.oktoberfestonthecommon.com Address: Clapham Common, Windmill Drive, London, SW4 9DE Photography courtesy of Oktoberfest

Join the glorious Green Rooms at Old Spitalfields Market on Sunday, 22nd September for their house plant pop-up extravaganza. Calling all plant lovers to come along to sharpen up their green fingers, in a day dedicated to flora and foliage. Whether you are an experienced planter seeking an unusual addition to an existing collection or a newbie looking to spruce up your interior, this event has got the world of interior planting covered, with expert advice on all things plants. From low-maintenance house plants to cultivating luxurious succulents, there is plenty to learn and discover. Find Green Rooms amid the buzzing Old Spitalfields Market, surrounded by indulgent food and drink sellers making it a great day out, with plenty to entertain all the family. The area is well known for its array of independent indie businesses and new designers. Green Rooms will be showcasing some of the UK’s finest traders of house plants and accessories, making it the perfect excuse to visit one of London’s most vibrant and established markets. For more information visit  https://oldspitalfieldsmarket.com Written by Claire Bloom Photography courtesy of Green Rooms

This September, Hotpod Yoga studios across London, including the new Leyton branch, are offering £5 charity yoga classes in collaboration with theMovement, a London-based charity dedicated to restoring women’s rights to exercise by providing opportunities to those facing multiple disadvantages. With all proceeds going to support their mission, nine Hotpod Yoga locations throughout the capital will host open days, inviting new customers to experience a class for just £5. Every penny will be donated to theMovement, promoting the benefits of yoga for both mental and physical health whilst supporting a cause committed to aiding those who have faced significant challenges, including mental health struggles. Hotpod Yoga, known for its immersive yoga experience, will give first-time visitors the chance to explore the benefits of their unique approach to yoga while contributing to a meaningful cause. The Leyton studio, situated in a railway archway on Midland Road in east London and recently launched by sisters and former primary school teachers Mia and Courtney, will hold its open day on Saturday, September 21st 2014. Dates and locations of open days:  Weekend 14th & 15th September  Hotpod Yoga Brixton, Dulwich, Putney and South Wimbledon  Weekend 21st & 22nd September  Hotpod Yoga Belgravia, Tottenham Hale and Leyton  Weekend 28th & 29th September  Hotpod Yoga Hackney and Notting Hill Website:  www.hotpodyoga.com Written by Jordan Crowley Images courtesy of Hot Pod Yoga

From the wilds of Belize comes an exciting rum that entices you on a journey of flavour. Named after the country's most celebrated river, Ruta Maya conjures up images of flowing through the Central American lands, experiencing the flavours of local produce and honoring ancient Maya societies. With four infused rums including a mildly citrus white (blanco), a golden ouro, an intense coffee rum and a fresh zest cocolime, Ruta Maya is a rum for explorers with penchant for discovery. A great way to experience the flavours of Ruta Maya’s exquisite rums is by combining other ingredients to concoct one of the following delicious cocktails. Belize Libre Ingredients 13⁄4oz RM Rum Blanco Cola on top Lime wedge Method Pour RM Rum Blanco into a highball glass. Squeeze the juice of a lime wedge into the glass. Fill the glass with ice. Top up with cola. Garnish with a lime wedge. Maya Martini Ingredients 13⁄4oz RM Rum Blanco 1⁄4oz Dry Vermouth Method Fill a mixing glass with ice. Pour RM Rum Blanco and dry vermouth into the mixing glass. Stir for 20 to 30 seconds. Strain the liquid into a chilled Martini glass. Use a lime zest to spray the essential oils onto the surface of the glass. Garnish with a lime zest. Ouro Ginger Beer Ingredients 13⁄4oz RM Rum Ouro Ginger Beer on top Lime wedge Method Pour RM Rum Ouro into a highball glass. Squeezethe juice of a lime wedge into the glass. Fill the glass with ice. Top up with ginger beer. Garnish with a lime wedge. Maya Negroni Ingredients 1oz RM Rum Ouro 1oz Red Vermouth 1oz Italian Bitter Method Pour all the ingredients into a rocks glass. Fill the glass with ice. Stir for 30 seconds. Use an orange zest to spray the essential oils onto the surface of the glass. Garnish with an orange wedge. Cocolime Fizz Ingredients 2oz RM Cocolime Rum 1⁄4oz Fresh lime juice 1⁄4oz Coconut water Brut Sparkling wine on top Method In a mixing glass add RM Cocolime Rum, fresh lime juice and coconut water. Fill with ice and shake well. Double strain the liquid into a flute glass. Top up with sparkling wine. Garnsih with a mint leaf floating and dry coconut rim. Cocolime Mojito Ingredients 2oz RM Cocolime Rum 1oz Fresh lime juice 6-8 Mint leaves Soda water Method In a highball glass, muddle the fresh mint gently to release the flavour. Add RM Cocolime Rum and fresh lime juice to the glass. Fill the glass with crashed ice and mix it well. Top up with soda water and stir gently to combine. Garnish with mint spring, lime wedge and dry coconut. Cocolime & Soda Ingredients 13⁄4oz RM Cocolime Rum Soda water on top Lime wedge Coconut rim Method Pour RM Cocolime Rum into a highball glass. Fill the glass with ice. Top up with soda water. Squeeze the juice of a lime wedge into the glass. Garnish with a lime wedge and dry coconut rim. Maya Espresso Martini Ingredients 11⁄2oz RM Coffee Rum 11⁄2oz Cointreau Liqueur 1 Hot espresso Cocoa Bitters Pinch of sea salt Method Pour all the ingredients into a shaker. Fill the shaker with ice. Hard shake for 30 seconds. Pour and strain into a Martini glass. Garnsih with 3 coffee beans. Coffee Old Fashioned Ingredients 13⁄4oz RM Coffee Rum 2 Dashes Cocoa Bitters Soda water splash Method Pour RM Coffee Rum and cocoa bitters into a rocks glass. Fill the glass with ice and stir for 30 seconds. Refill the glass with ice to the top. Add a splash of soda water and stir. Use an orange zest to spray the essential oils onto the surface of the glass. Garnish with an orange wedge. For more information visit https://rutamayarum.com/

Fans of the Danish-Japanese fusion restaurant will be forming an orderly queue on 28th September as Stick and Sushi opens its 29th restaurant on Upper Street, N1. This is their first restaurant north of the river with a huge 50% off food as they soft launch. If you haven't tried their food before you are in for a treat.  Their signature dish is the Black Cod house roll which is miso-marinated black cod with vegetable chips & pickled red onion, totally mouth-watering alongside the classic sushi, sticks, tartare and sashimi.  If your style is more meat-based, try the Ibérico Secreto – miso-cured black Iberian pig with lemon; charred chicken wings; or Wagyu Yaki - Japanese Wagyu from Kyushu. Vegan and Vegetarian sticks are also available. The drinks menu is also a work of art - fusing Japanese and Nordic influences from cocktails like  Shiso Ha, with tequila, shiso leaves, and elderflower, or Purple Rain, featuring Japanese gin, violet liqueur, and yuzu tonic. There is also a curated list of wines, spirits, Japanese teas, and an extensive sake menu to tempt your tastebuds. For more information visit  https://sticksnsushi.com/en Written by Claire Selby  Photography by Sticks and Sushi

TH@51 have unveiled their latest Courtyard Beverage Menu, with cocktails creatively inspired by the hotel’s Shakespearean roots. Having already received a fantastic response since they launched earlier this month, the tipples can either be enjoyed outdoors in the scenic courtyard, or inside the restaurant’s equally beautiful conservatory. The collection of four cocktails each reflect a famous piece from Shakespeare, with a fascinating aesthetic matching their name. Swan of Avon with hints of bubble gum and exquisitely presented in a spectacular swan-shaped glass, Midnight Summer Dream with Blue curacao which is exceptionally served in a shell-shaped glass, Ophelia’s Muse which has hints of Cocchi Americano, and The Bard’s Elixir which has a gin and citrus base. Priced at £15 each, every new cocktail on the menu has been created from the Shakespeare-inspired Sylvan-scene Frieze, where you can see different scenes from Shakespeare’s ‘Sylvian Plays’ such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Much Ado. When dining in the hidden courtyard, guests are surrounded by one of the world’s longest Shakespearean-inspired frieze. This is depicted across the walls of Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences and St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel. The entire energy of the courtyard encompasses the secret Shakespearean stories which are waiting to be re-imagined by guests. Address:  TH@51 at Taj 51, 51 Buckingham Gate, London SW1E 6AF Website address: https://www.th51.co.uk/en Written by Jordan Crowley Photo courtesy of TH@51

In support of the charity Pets as Therapy, the highly anticipated Chelsea Dog Day is returning to the area on Saturday, 5th October 2024, with Chelsea being magically transformed into a dog friendly haven.   Duke of York Square will house the infamous ‘Four Legged Foodies’, a dog-themed market with 20 dog-themed stalls selling everything from delicious canine treats and accessories, including ‘Hiro + Wolf’ known for their stylish accessories, ‘Caboodle’ providing delicious treats, ‘Hilary’s Hounds’ with fashionable clothing and much more.   Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at Duke of York Square, including behaviourist talks by Chelsea Canines offering expert dog-handling and training tips. Napo Dog Insurance will have a scent-work trike on site, where dogs and their owners can receive free scent work games. Don't forget to snap a photo at the giant sausage dog bench for a memorable keepsake. In other parts of the neighbourhood, over 65 shops, hotels, and restaurants will be rolling out the welcome mat for your furry friends. Look forward to live entertainment, treats, pawtrait artists, and more from names like Prada, PAIGE, Colbert, The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, and The Fashion School, ensuring a full day of dog-friendly fun. For a complete list of activities, download the map from the King’s Road website. Chelsea Dog Day is organized by Cadogan, with the support of local dog lovers May Wong Gaynor Jackson. Date: Saturday 5th October 2024 For more information visit www.kingsroad.co.uk Written by Jordan Crowley Photography courtesy of Chelsea Dog Day