Cool things to do this summer

FEAST

What... Circolo Popolare, a fabulous new trattoria that's a big slice of Sicillian-style summer in the capital.

Where... In Fitzrovia, conveniently close to the design shops.

Why... There’s nothing we don’t love about Gloria, the first Italian trattoria from the Big Mamma group. The vine-clad eatery brought a sweet slice of la dolce vita to Shoreditch and Big Mamma has just opened its second outpost, Circolo Popolare, on Rathbone Place. The cacio e pepe pasta is served inside a giant wheel of cheese... Need we say more?

stay

What... The Rose, a new boutique restaurant with rooms offering laid-back British style.

Where... In Deal, a charming little town on the Kent coast.

Why... The Kent coastline is having a moment, with Ramsgate and Margate reclaiming their place as favourite spots on the British tourist trail. For something different, try Deal, where there’s no better place to stay, or eat, than The Rose.

We love the pretty vintage rooms – think velvet headboards and bamboo side tables – and just can’t get enough of those smoked prawns with aioli.

discover

What... A flagship store for legendary camera brand Leica.

Where... In excellent company on Mayfair’s Duke Street.

Why... Guaranteed to delight the capital’s photography buffs, this new multidisciplinary destination includes a retail space carrying the brand’s full line of products (with experts on hands to advise) and the UK’s first Leica Gallery, which will showcase a range of established and up-and-coming artistic talents.

shop

What... This organic, zero-waste épicerie of fine foods and cupboard staples.

Where... Notting Hill’s bustling Portobello Road is the perfect home for Liberté Chérie’s chic, eco credentials to shine.

Why... From refillable, eco- friendly laundry liquid provided in bottles made from recycled coffee cups to gluten, dairy and egg-free marshmallows, this emporium of larder and household riches will help to reduce its patrons’ ecological footprint while giving them a dose of organic, natural goodness. Two birds with one stone.

eat

What... The best baked goodsin London town at The Dusty Knuckle.

Where... Curiously placed in a car park at the end of Abbot Street, Dalston.

Why... Get your fix of all things sourdoughand rye at this popular east London bakery. There’s also now a café, serving a salivating array of buns, brioches and savoury treats.

For those who want to recreate the experience at home, the bakery offers masterclasses in bread-making, ranging from breakfast pastries to intro courses for beginners.

Shuck

What... World-famous Colchester Rock oysters, from the shores of Pyfleet Creek on Mersea Island, where oysters have been farmed since Roman times.

Where... At Butlers Wharf Chop House, over-looking Tower Bridge, on the banks of the River Thames.

Why... Because the restaurant has teamed up with Nyetimber, the English Sparkling Wine producers on a summer pop-up, that'll be open until 31st August. It's a wonderful way to while away a summer's evening and there's also a chance to attend a (ticketed) masterclass on oyster shucking, taught by Colchester oyster Fishery.

Want to get away? Check out these design destinations.