Alma
Known for their fresh brunches, veg heavy dishes and delicious coffee, Alma is the perfect spot to kickstart your day. If you’re keen for a caffeine-free morning, their smoothies, health shots, and speciality lattes (hello, red velvet) are also as aesthetically pleasing as they are soothing.
Truth Cafe
A well-loved local gem, Truth Cafe is an independent spot which we need to shout about as they not only have pancakes on the menu, but multiple kinds of pancake stacks on the menu. Moreish breakfast dishes, friendly staff, and a rustic reminder of what Friday mornings should feel like.
Azou
One of the most authentic Moroccan restaurants in London; think cushions, low tables, lots of drapery, and huge tagines of jewelled couscous. Stepping into Azou is like entering an atmospheric cavern wherein everything is deliciously spiced and a treat for all the senses. Sometimes it can be a little tricky to step back out again...
Sam’s Riverside
Yes, okay, it might be a little fancier than a quick lunchtime dash into Pret (no hate here, we love a cheeky Pret), but if you’re in the mood for a much deserved treat, then Sam’s is a gloriously glossy venue which has plenty of pretty plates for you to peruse. The view’s not bad either.
Cafe De Nata
Cafe De Nata is stacked full with tray after tray of pastel de nata - quite possibly the gem of all custard based pastries. Now, whilst the traditional nata (creamy, thick, baked custard in golden, flaking casing) may be the start and end of all things nata for many pastry fiends, it’s not the only nata which you can find here. Raspberry, blueberry, and, my personal favourite, apple cinnamon natas are also available; and they’re all delicious.
Dragon Cat Cafe
If you’re planning on spending the day in Hammersmith, then popping into family-run Dragon Cat Cafe is an absolute must: fresh Tawainese bubble tea to quench your thirst. If you’re not the biggest fan of bubble tea (or texture in your drink), no worries at all; the regularly changing menu has a variety of unusual and delicious drinks to choose from. Their pineapple iced tea is something which dreams are made of.
London Wetland Centre
Sometimes it’s nice to feel like you’re in the heart of nature rather than 30 minutes from central London, and the WWT London Wetland Centre is the place to do it. Founded by Peter Scott, son of the famous intrepid Antarctic explorer Captain Scott, the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust has ten sites across the UK and a visit is an excellent opportunity to get up close and personal to some of the site’s adorable inhabitants. (Yes, that’s our way of saying they have otters.)
Chiswick House
Can’t go wrong with a little dip into English Heritage grounds and Chiswick House is just that. More than just a (really nice) house, it’s also the location of art exhibitions, cultural events and even the occasional dog show - so do take a look ahead of time and see what tickles your fancy.
The Clay Garden
Have you ever been tempted to try your hand at turning clay? The Clay Garden has drop-in sessions, short and longer courses, and pretty much everything you could ever want to create, turn, glaze and fire up your pottery creations. Reasonably priced and super friendly, it’s a great shout for both an introduction to clay work and the more advanced amongst you.
Not sure where to work? Check out Huddle, Work.Life Hammersmith, The Office Group - 1 Lyric Square or Mindspace Hammersmith - all on the Desana network.