The quiet charms of Queen’s Park

Queen's Park Books was started by the Fergiani family and is home to 10,000 carefully selected titles, with authors to suit every taste. They also help to host the Queen’s Park book festival, which takes place in the park every summer. A much-loved part of the local literary community.

Founded in 1999, The Salusbury Deli is one of NW6’s most popular spots for foodies. As well as stocking a wide range of cured meats and cheeses, along with shelves of imported items, there is also a counter selling fresh salad and healthy organic produce.

For local wine-lovers, The Salusbury Winestore is the first choice when shopping for a bottle. Inside you will find an impressive selection at all prices, from traditional domains to trendy natural wines, along with fascinating flavours from around the world. There’s also an in-house wine bar, along with spirits and craft beer for sale.

Vic Botherson founded Scarlet and Violet florists in 2006. Their flowers are bought daily from New Covent Garden market, making use of the British flower season as much as possible. The beautiful interior is filled with flowers and foliage, as well as a delightful collection of pots and pottery.

The farmer's market takes place every Sunday between 10am and 2pm. Occupying the playground of Salusbury Primary School, you will find stalls selling everything from organic vegetables to home-cooked cakes. There’s also an emphasis on seasonal produce, whether asparagus in the spring, soft fruit in the summer, or game in the early autumn.

Fashion pioneer Michiko Koshino moved from Osaka to London in the early 80s, becoming an influential designer. Her restaurant, Michiko Sushino, was opened eight years ago, serving traditional Japanese sushi in a modern setting, and soon becoming one of the neighbourhood’s trendiest night spots.

Both these restaurants make for ideal lunch spots. Harvest is a beautiful room with a covered back garden, offering seasonal British-led menus and serving food throughout the day. Meanwhile, Ida is another family operation: an Italian restaurant that prides itself on freshly made pasta, served in a delightful Grade-II-listed corner shop.