Vast and sprawling, a tangle of roads and lanes, a muddle of rising and falling neighborhoods: London can be a big beast to tame, even for the people who get to call it home. But this ever-changing and regenerating capital can also charm you with its beauty, from wind-rustled parks to that winding River Thames. Its mix of people, abundance of culture, and the occasional louche night on the tiles also makes it a city that will surprise you and win you over.

The Monocle Travel Guide to London is a celebration of all the things that the Monocle team loves above this mighty metropolis (and they are brave enough to let you see the wrinkles too). It’s a guide to the bars, shops, restaurants, music venues, and museums that they think should edge their way on to your itinerary. They will lure you to some fresher neighborhoods and fill your head with lots of “We really have to see…” ideas. And they will leave you with a clear, crisp view of how the capital is changing. London is a global city but the Monocle team will help you see it as a series of friendly local gems. Hold on to your hat.