Yaroslava is the creator and founder of @my_ldn and @myldnfood where she posts about travel, food, and lifestyle. From walks along the Thames in Richmond to picnics at St Dunstan-in-the-East, Yaroslava knows the ins and outs of the city. This June marks her 9 year anniversary of living in London, so we picked her brain for some her favourite spots:
How would you spend a free Saturday in London?
I would have a relaxing walk in the park to soak up the fresh air. I’d grab a coffee and go to Richmond Park. It is huge and everyone can find what to do - whether you decide to visit Isabella Plantation with its evergreen azaleas and rhododendrons, to enjoy The John Beer Laburnum Walk or to sit on the terrace of Pembroke Lodge, sipping your tea with a view over Richmond park.Also there is a historic view point at King Henry’s Mound which is protected, meaning no new building is allowed to impede it. Use a telescope and you’ll be able to see St Paul’s Cathedral no problem at all.
Do you have a favourite place for afternoon tea?
Over the years I’ve tried so many, Dominique Ansel’s Afternoon Tea and Mariage Frères’s one were very nice, but I think Fortnum & Mason’s Afternoon Tea is my favourite.
If you had to pick, what is your favourite season in London?
I love spring in London, this is when you witness the beauty of magnolia, sakura trees as well as wisteria. I love early autumn and Christmas time too, when London is sparkling with lights. Visiting festive London is out of this world experience.
Do you have a favourite movie or book set in London?
I love Harry Potter books, so every time I’m visiting Leadenhall Market I get this magical vibe. There are The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross station, Godwin’s Court with bow-fronted windows that reminds me of Diagonal Alley, but for a truly immersive experience you have to visit Warner Bros. Studio in Watford at least once.
Is there a hidden gem you’re willing to share?
Cannizaro Park is my favourite park in all of London. This Grade II listed park once was part of Duke of Cannizaro’s Estate. The collection of plants and trees is exceptional, this park was laid out in order to enjoy it every season. No matter what month you’re visiting, I can assure you, you will be surprised by this discovery. It has the aviary that was built in 1976, Herbs Garden, Italian Garden, Water Garden, lots of Camellias, Rhododendrons and azaleas walk, Handkerchief tree, Laburnum, Wisteria and more. It is located right next to Wimbledon village, 20 minute walk from Wimbledon Station. Architecture wise - Sicilian Avenue in Bloomsbury is an absolute stunner.
Do you have a place you take all your visitors?
Yes, there is one place I’m taking everyone to show them how open-minded London is. There is a coffee shop Host Café in the St Mary Aldermary church on Watling Street and for most people I took in there it was a shock. It’s not the only one coffee shop located inside the church in London, but this one has the most incredible ceiling and tranquil atmosphere. Talking about coffee shops in unusual places, there is this Attendant coffee shop, it is located in the restored Victorian public toilet in Fitzrovia.
Favourite walk in London?
I love Richmond for a walk, taking Chai Latte at Gail’s bakery or latte at Kiss the Hippo, and visiting favourite spots: The Green, Richmond Riverside, Brewers Lane, Paved Court, Bulbous Betty and Richmond Hill viewing Point.I love Kensington and Chelsea too, so I’d normally grab a flat white at Hjem Kensington and go for a wonder. Also I love Mayfair, so I’d take a coffee from Hideaway, pop into the oldest Italian pasticceria in London- Marchesi and go to Mount Street Garden.
What is the best dessert you’ve had in London?
After visiting Stockholm in 2019 I became a bun-lover, my favourites are cinnamon buns from Fabrique and Bageriete and there is a new place I discovered recently - Buns From Home in Notting Hill.
Favourite museum to explore?
The Natural History Museum is one of my absolute favourites in London. Also I love exhibitions at Saatchi Gallery and Tate Britain. Sherlock Holmes Museum is great for true fans like myself.