MONPURE has its roots in the capital and was established by a collective of London-based beauty experts, scientists and dermatologists. Proud to be a ‘London brand’, the dynamic character and rich history of the city inspires us and is at the heart of everything we do. With that in mind, we’ve chosen a few of our favourite spots in our hometown for any city-dwellers or day-trippers looking for things to see and do in The Big Smoke.
Exmouth Market
One of the few solely pedestrianized streets in London, these cobbled roads are home to some great bars, eateries, coffee shops and boutiques selling all manner of interesting knick knacks. It’s achingly ‘hipster’ so it’s a good chance to people watch too. Plus London’s annual Tweed Run (where everyone dresses up in tweeds and cycles around the city) starts and finishes there every year. (Nearest tubes: Farringdon and Angel.)
Piccadilly
Yes it might seem like a tourist trap that should be avoided at all costs, but if you get off the tube at Green Park instead of Piccadilly Circus it’s a far more pleasant experience. From Fortnum & Mason’s afternoon tea, to legendary breakfast at The Wolsley the area is where you can find many of the city’s beloved hang outs. The Royal Academy is also a must-see – their summer exhibition is a key social event where new artists display their work, attracting all manner of art lovers, socialites and serious collectors hoping to snap up a future classic.
Old Street towards Shoreditch
Bar flies and night owls will want to head to this popular haunt, where you can try some of the best – and most Instagrammable - cocktails in London. Their ‘secret’ speakeasy-style bars such as Nightjar, Found and Callooh Callay have all the cool kids queuing around the block, while if you wander down to Shoreditch you can try all manner of street food on Brick Lane and dance till dawn with various celebrities’ offspring at The Ace Hotel.
Borough Market/Southbank
A tourist hotspot and for good reason – so we suggest you avoid going on a Saturday, and opt for the Thursday or Friday afternoon markets instead. This legendary farmers’ market takes place under Southwark’s historic Victorian arches, where you can sample as many artisan breads, cheeses and cured meats as your heart desires. Behind the market is the Southbank where you can enjoy gorgeous views of The Thames, catch a play at Shakespeare’s Globe or get an arty fix at The Tate Modern.
Brockwell Park/Brixton
London has so many beautiful green spaces and this sprawling 84-acre park is one of them. Home to many of the city’s famous concerts, festivals and circuses as well as the famous Lambeth Country Show, you can spend a day flying kites, sunbathing or taking a dip in the famous outdoor pool (built in 1937). Heading north, Brixton is considered South London’s music capital, birthplace of David Bowie and the inspiration for the song “Electric Avenue” by Eddy Grant. Brixton Academy is also an iconic concert venue, where the likes of The Clash, The Prodigy, Nine Inch Nails and Bob Dylan have all played.
Kew Gardens
This place is a bit further afield from the city centre, but definitely worth the trip if you have the time. Established in 1759 it holds the most varied botanical collection on earth (as well as the world's largest collection of orchids). The 18th Century Chinese Pagoda and Victorian Palm House are both must-sees. It’s especially magical around Christmas time, where the whole place gets illuminated and transformed into a festive wonderland, complete with light show.
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One of the reasons we created MONPURE was for people who love city life – but want to safeguard their scalp and hair from high pollution levels. Our products are brimming with strengthening, nourishing ingredients to shield your scalp-skin and strands from environmental aggressors. Discover the MONPURE range here.
