An expert expat’s guide to St Johns Wood, London
The expat
SJ Fallick grew up in Malvern, Victoria before booking a one-way ticket to London in early 2015. Landing in Chelsea, she has gradually migrated north and now lives opposite Lord’s Cricket Ground, having called St John’s Wood (SJW) home for the past three years working for Mastercard.
SJ Fallick, on location in London
See
Having tested a number of neighbourhoods, I can confidently recommend Marylebone the most. One of the few that still has a thriving High Street, it’s also home to my favourite bookstore, Daunt Books ( dauntbooks.co.uk). Featuring long oak galleries, a mezzanine level and skylights, it’s a beautiful space to while away time browsing books. Known for its extensive travel section, Daunt also hosts regular events and author talks which are well worth attending. And don’t leave the area without taking a walk down Chiltern Street, my most-loved street in London.
Do
Relaxing among the roses in Queen Mary’s Gardens.Credit: Alamy
London is a city of parks. While I miss the Aussie beaches terribly – credit where credit’s due – London’s parks are the lungs of the city. I’m lucky enough to live next to Regent’s Park which, I’ll reluctantly divulge, outshines Hyde Park. With so many ways to be active, you can really choose your own adventure, be it walking, running, cycling or playing on the sports fields (thankfully, no swimming). If I’m not walking through the roses in Queen Mary’s Gardens (a must-see), you’ll find me learning tennis at Park Sports. Open to visitors and regulars, I started in 2020 and it’s still a pinch-me moment each time I find myself playing against such a beautiful backdrop. See parksports.co.uk
Regent’s Park outshines Hyde Park.Credit: Alamy
Eat
Soutine is a perfect example of why neighbourhood restaurants are so good. Part of the Wolseley Hospitality Group, it’s located on a prime corner of SJW High Street, with outdoor tables offering the ideal spot to soak up the sun (or huddle under a heater). The essence of a classic French brasserie, the cosy interior is just as inviting. Offering old-school service with an excellent all-day menu, my top pick is the steak frites et salade. See soutine.co.uk
Drink
In SJW, there is only one answer to this question – coffee at Panzer’s. The jewel of the neighbourhood, Panzer’s is considered London’s original Jewish deli, opening 79 years ago. Far more than a purveyor of kosher products and cold cuts, it’s a destination in itself for its expertly curated selection of international delicacies and fresh produce. Panzer’s coffee bar pumps out coffee from 7am daily, with the option to sit outside and an impressive selection of mouth-watering house-made treats. There’s usually a queue, but it’s well worth the wait. As a true Melbourne coffee snob, I can say, hand-on-heart, that Panzer’s is by far the best cup you’ll get in London – evidenced by the fact I now brew the same beans at home (Origin Stronghold, if you’re asking). See panzers.co.uk
Avoid
The Tube if you can. While there’s no doubt it’s an incredibly efficient transport system, not even the locals enjoy catching it. London is a city best explored on foot, eyes up, not looking down at your phone! This is as much for safety as it is to soak it all in properly. For some of the best views in the area, head up to Primrose Hill where you can marvel at the city skyline.
Thrive
At the opposite end of the spectrum to Panzer’s coffee is London water. While it’s technically safe to drink, there are also numerous articles about what the authorities struggle to filter out in the recycling process including hormones, medications and drugs. Safer to stick to bottled water while you’re here.
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