Mr & Mrs Smith

Combine a stroll along the Thames with lunch or dinner at Pissarro, close to Chiswick Pier (+44 (0)20 8994 3111) – ask for a river view and a plate of oysters. Other good evening-meal venues in Chiswick include Parisian‑style bistro Le Vacherin (+44 (0)20 8742 2121) and luxe French restaurant La Trompette (+44 (0)20 8747 1836). Neighbouring Smith HQ in the Barley Mow Centre, Sam’s (+44 (0)20 8987 0555) is an excellent but unpretentious modern brasserie with imaginative brunch menus and a smart bar. Spice things up in W6 with a tastebud‑tantalising thali at Indian Zing on King Street (+44 (0)20 8748 5959).

Have a pint in the relaxed and friendly Roebuck (+44 (0)20 8995 4392), just minutes away from the hotel at 122 Chiswick High Road. Their Sunday roasts aren't to be sniffed at, either.

There are plenty of places to pick up a coffee or croissant on Chiswick High Road – try Gail’s (+44 (0)20 8995 2266; www.gailsbread.co.uk) or Carluccio’s (+44 (0)20 8995 8073; www.carluccios.com).

Lazybones can potter across to Turnham Green, just opposite; alternatively, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew is only two stops away on the District Line (or a short cab ride).

Late March Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race (www.theboatrace.org). Late May Chelsea Flower Show (www.rhs.org.uk). Late June Wimbledon tennis championships (www.wimbledon.org). July–September The BBC Proms concerts (www.bbc.co.uk/proms). September Open House Weekend sees 600 buildings, old and new, open to the public, free of charge (www.londonopenhouse.org).