London: seven reasons to visit now

With some of the most instantly recognisable landmarks, world-class museums and galleries, and a thriving foodie scene, London is still one of the most vibrant and creative places for a city break. The Dorchester hotel’s Harry Deasy – voted the most in-the-know concierge in The Club 2016 Readers’ Awards – gives his insider tips on the capital, whether you’re visiting for your first or 101st time

Time travel

If you want an alternative to the big museums, visit Dennis Severs’ House in Shoreditch. Each of the Grade II-listed house’s 10 bedrooms is decorated with antique furniture. Sever, the house’s American owner, recreated the original smells, scents and background music for the period 1724 to 1914 – it’s like going back in time. There’s no electricity so you have to go round by candlelight.

Different league

For a classic London meal, you can’t beat Covent Garden’s The Ivy, which turns 100 this year. I love its old-world décor and charm – think stained-glass windows and wood panelling. The fish and chips with mushy peas is my go-to order – you can choose from five or six different fish, from sea bream and halibut to dover sole, but save room for the famous baked Alaska.

Secret garden

The Barbican is a well-loved brutalist building renowned for its art exhibitions, theatre and concerts, but don’t miss the Barbican Conservatory. Only open on Sunday afternoons, it’s a hidden oasis of tropical plants, overhanging vines and trickling fountains.

Shopping spree

For off-the-beaten-track boutiques, head to Marylebone High Street. It’s a short walk from The Dorchester and you’ll definitely avoid the crowds. Don’t miss popping into Daunt Books, a beautiful three-floor Edwardian bookshop that stocks travel guidebooks, maps, travelogues, plus history and politics books, organised by country.

Grave encounters

I’ve been a Londoner for 26 years but I’m always discovering new things. One such place is a beautiful graveyard in the City called Bunhill Fields, the final resting place of London luminaries such as Daniel Defoe and William Blake.

All that jazz

Ronnie Scott’s is the city’s most iconic jazz bar, but a more unusual place to hear live music is the medieval crypt of St Martin-in-the-Fields church on the corner of Trafalgar Square. The acoustics are superb.

Views to thrill

The lookout at The Monument, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, is a great spot for a photo. When it was built, the idea was for people to enjoy the view from the top, because back then it was one of the highest spots in the city and there was little else around it, unlike today.

Harry Deasy