034 - Third Places 3️⃣
In his important work, The Great Good Place, Ray Oldenburg defines third places as public places—outside of our workplaces and our homes—where people can gather to enjoy conversation and the company of others. London has plenty of great third places to experience, so get on out and give them a visit.
📚 Libraries
Whether you are looking for a quiet place to read or an inviting place to exchange ideas with others, London’s public libraries have you covered. From discussion groups, book clubs, and film screenings to workshops, classes, and storytime sessions, our libraries offer different ways to get and stay connected in our city. Little known fact: our libraries loan out board games. You’re welcome, friends.
🍻 Pubs
Pubs have historically been places to drink malt-filled beverages, to discuss local issues and existential questions, and to experience a home away from home. For those of you looking for a pub to become a regular in, we suggest the Byron Freehouse (live music!), Milos’ (local beer!), The Morrissey House (bring your own wine!), Winks Eatery (Wednesday night trivia!), The Church Key (patio!), and Hunter and Co. ($5 menu on Sunday nights!).
☕ Coffee Shops
Over the past five years, London has seen an influx in new coffee spots. Many of these local shops have become social hubs in the neighbourhoods that they are a part of. To get your caffeine fix and to meet some of the people that live around you, head on over to 10Eighteen (Old East Village), Locomotive Espresso (Piccadilly), Rebel Remedy and London Bicycle Cafe (Downtown), Fire Roasted (Old South), Neighbourhood Laundromat Cafe (Hamilton Road), and Commonwealth Coffee (Richmond Row).
🌳 Public Spaces
With the number of parks that we have around our city, there is certainly no shortage of green spaces to linger in. If splash pads, outdoor pools, dog parks, bike trails, tennis courts, and playgrounds are your style, London’s got those, too. Close off the summer by hunkering down in one of London’s lovely public spaces with a few neighbours, a blanket, and a picnic basket.
Bonus!
The city has released the list of winning projects from this year’s Neighbourhood Decision Making initiative. Stay tuned to see how these projects become third places throughout London’s many neighbourhoods!
Next week: Made in London
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