Out – Three Favourite stores

Nothing nicer than discovering a gem of a store. These are my favourite three for on-going inspiration.

Petersham Nurseries

You probably all know of Petersham and think ‘I really must go there’. You should. It’s very special and is one of those places you feel better, just to have been in.

To make the most of the visit, take the train to Richmond and walk to Petersham along the river, cutting across the field at the end. A delightful walk whatever the time of year. It also helps Petersham keep the car numbers down, which is essential for them to continue to stay open.

With an award-winning restaurant run by chef Sky Gyngell, the premises also includes a fantastic shop reflecting the extensive travel of the owners. Housed in one of the glass houses, features established brands including Côté Bastide, Astier de Villatte and Claus Porto as well as one off pieces.

You can also just stop for coffee and cake, or amazingly, buy some very good quality plants.

Petersham Nurseries

Off Petersham Road

Richmond

Surrey

TW10 7AG

Egg

I would say my favourite................. Carefully curated and ever-changing, you may find ceramics, clothing or African jewellery. They stock Dosa, Rupert Spiro and an ever-changing selection of artists work. Even their location is delightful. There are two stores, so don’t forget to cross the mews to see the other one.

If the door is locked, they will be more than happy to open for you.

Lastly, take the time to pop into the award-winning pub across the road - the Nag's Head to imbibe in its sublime Bloody Marys.

Egg, 26-27 Kinnerton Street, London SW1 (020 7235 9315).

Persophone Books

With distinctive plain grey jackets and cream labels, every Persophone book looks identical from the outside. Inside, however, is a different story, as each book features a unique endpaper featuring a textile design carefully chosen to match the date and mood of the book.

With two small but perfectly formed bookstores in Lambs Conduit Street and Kensington Church Street, Persephone Books only publishes 81 titles but these are updated, always reflecting the changes in customers' choices.

A lovely place to be.

59 Lamb's Conduit Street
London WC1N 3NB
or
109 Kensington Church Street London W8 7LN.