What to do in central London

Inextricably entwined in the brand’s DNA, Alice walks us through her favourite places in London for wedding preparations

The birthplace of the brand, London will always hold a special place at the heart of Temperley. The energy, the eclecticism, the Britishness — it’s been a source of inspiration to Alice since her Central Saint Martins days.

Tucked away from the bustle of Oxford Street, our Bridal Showroom provided an oasis of calm with a heady combination of luxury Bohemianism; delicately beaded satin, romantic lace, embellished tulle.

Looking for your honeymoon, engagement and bridal wardrobe — or just dropping by, here are the places you should visit during your trip:

Best for: A pre-wedding facial routine

FaceGym, Selfridges on Oxford Street

Unlike any facial you’ve had before, FaceGym (in its permanent Selfridges concession) focuses on working and training the facial muscles. The results: sculpting, brightening, rejuvenating. The studio recommends one a week in the month leading up to the wedding.

Best for: A light lunch

Scott’s, Mayfair

A Mount Street institution, Scott’s is the place to go for the freshest fish and seafood dishes in the city — and the ideal shopping breather. Book one of the elegant row of outdoor tables and enjoy people-watching with a glass of Champagne. Head for the oyster bar if the woollen blankets and heaters won’t stave off the chill. Book in advance.

Best for: Hat shopping (with a little history)

Christys’ London, St. Christopher’s Place

More fedora than fascinators, Christys is worth a visit just for its heritage charm. But it’s also the place to get a fine traditionally crafted hat if you’re planning on that kind of dress code.

Best for: The best breakfast in town

The Wolseley, Mayfair

Not only the most extensive menu, but the most beautiful setting for a bridal brunch. Breakfast at The Wolseley is to be experienced at least once. For proper sustenance, The English can’t be beaten — but the croissants are some of the best you’ll get outside of France.

Best for: Art and afternoon tea

The Wallace Collection, Marylebone

All shopped out, it’s time to take a walk to Hertford House. Look around whatever exhibition is currently showing, marvel at the townhouse itself, enjoy The Wallace Afternoon Tea. The airy glass-roofed courtyard restaurant — with lots of natural light and beautiful great trees — is the most perfect place for it.

Best for: Some breathing space

Hyde Park

Peaceful ponds, historic trails and lush greenery; wander around Hyde Park or just soak up the sun on the grass — a rare opportunity in these parts. Even take a bracing dip. There’s always something interesting going on in the Serpentine Gallery, so check that out then pull up a deckchair at the Bar & Kitchen overlooking the lake.

Best for: Planning your trip around

Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, Piccadilly

Running from June to August every year, the Summer Exhibition at the RA is always totally joyous. Celebrating art and architecture, there’s colour in the galleries and drinks in the courtyard.

Best for: Finding treasures

Pebble London, Paddington

A veritable trove, Pebble London is the place to find jewellery no-one else will have; traditional tribal jewellery and statement pieces made using natural materials, sourced from the founders’ travels across the globe.

Best for: Stocking up on beauty

Liberty, Soho

‘Liberty is the chosen resort of the artistic shopper’ — ;as Oscar Wilde once said — for make-up and beyond. Swathed in history and far less hectic than most other department stores in the area, it’s somewhere you could spend hours. Take in the Tudor revival interiors, peruse brand offerings, trial products one-to-one with resident make-up artists — perfecting all your wedding day looks.

Best for: Creative inspiration

MacCulloch & Wallis, Soho

Still set in a Victorian shop front, the traditional haberdashery MacCulloch & Wallis is one of those rare but fantastic places that’s sure to have something specific you’re after. Or it’s simply a interesting place to pass the time; rummaging around the extensive stock for ideas and inspiration.