Excellent Work!
As A&R Director of Island records, Annie Christensen might just have our dream job. In the past fifteen years she has lived and breathed the music industry; while signing Ben Howard, Spring King, Sälen and Sigrid to the label (and that’s just for starters). Of course all work and no play would make Annie a very dull girl - but luckily for us she relishes life in SW13. Annie is taking us on a tour of her 24 hours in Barnes.
Annie from Island RecordsI would start off the day at Alma Cafe. A morning start of fresh juices and smoothies and a fantastic breakfast. This would set me up for a walk around the Wetlands Centre. Walking on into Barnes proper from the Wetlands Centre to spend some time in the lovely Luma, an interiors shop that not only looks good but makes you feel good too - its ethos is organic and fair trade, and it takes great care to source beautiful and ethical products. They specialise in bed linen and bathroom accessories with a gentle, luxurious feel.
Alma Cafe, Barnes
Followed by a walk through Barnes village and along the river and you will find a spot for some lunch in local haunt Orange Pekoe, an independent cafe that specialises in teas. This is the destination for a real tea - scones, egg sandwiches, homemade jam (probably good to book ahead).
After lunch, I would wander over the road for a drink at The White Hart pub which has stunning river views… Lots of outside space in Summer and cosy log fires in the Winter. From there I might try and catch a film at the Olympic Cinema where you can have a glass of wine along with your popcorn. They pride themselves on their comfort and AV, it’s like a private cinema.
London Wetland Centre
Dinner would be across the road at Awesome Thai which does delicious fresh and authentic food with a very friendly Thai welcome from owner Lert. If I still had some energy I might have a night cap at the Coach and Horses, a lovely traditional boozer that has just been refurbished, but retains a lot of old fashioned village pub charm.
Olympic Cinema, Barnes
