North London with my two sons, husband and dog. We’ve been here for about five years and really adore it.
When my husband and I were dating we used to stay at the Café Royal at Piccadilly for the decadent breakfasts and incredible spa facilities. In fact, we loved it so much we became members so we could swim in the pool whenever we liked — pre-children, when our life was far more indulgent.
Where I live now is my first flat. I’ve always rented previously, my first house share was in Leytonstone at the end of 1999. My mum insisted that all her kids move out at 18, but when she saw how many mice I was cohabiting with she did feel bad about it!
I worked at the Millennium Dome, first in the ticketing department and later as a character actor. It’s probably the most I’ve enjoyed any of my jobs: it was social, well paid and with lots of brilliant, interesting people who would crowd down to the pub after work. It gave me a false idea of what adulthood would be like.
Southbank is the classic isn’t it, as there are lots of options for eating and drinking. And walking along the river with the lights twinkling is a very romantic thing to do that doesn’t cost anything. And if it’s going well, you could jump on a riverboat cruise or see a film at the BFI. It’s London at its best.
See also: First dates are always cringey — so where’s best for romance?
There is a nice Waterstones in Crouch End that allows dogs so we can head there with all the family and each get ourselves a treat. And an amazing toy shop called Niddle Noddle that has a slide inside. The Foyles book shop in Waterloo Station is very well stocked with inspiring titles. Clothes I only buy online because I don’t like seeing myself in mirrors.
I’m obsessed with the tofu laksa from Banana Tree in Soho. I’m not really a fancy restaurant guy, but anywhere that has a lot of tasty plant-based options has my loyalty for life.
I’d organise a massive party for the incredible people who keep this city running — the bus drivers, postal workers, teachers and medical staff. Yes, it would be annoying for anyone trying to use public transport or waiting in A&E, but I’m giving all those champions 24 hours off and some nice drinks and snacks.
I used to be a tour guide and the person I talked about most was Charles I. So, I don’t know if being executed by your Parliament is necessarily ‘iconic’, but it certainly shaped our current political system a great deal.
I don’t think I have. I am a very law-abiding lady who respects authority and avoids conflict. I always liked the legend that London bobbies had to lend their hats to any pregnant people who need the loo, but I don’t think that’s true.
I am obsessed with Warrior classes at 3Tribes studio in Crouch End. It’s a mixture of cardio and weights and in the dark so no one can see you.
Nowadays they have a nice chat with my gobby three-year-old son, which is adorable. I used to worry about cabbies recognising me and giving me some ‘advice’ for my comedy.
There’s a Waterstones on Tottenham Court Road with a bar downstairs so you can enjoy a cocktail while reading or working. I don’t really have a social life as I have very young children, plus I work most nights. But I fantasise about a solo drink with a book.
My best friend is Cariad Lloyd. We met at university and by pure coincidence/our rabid ambition, we have both managed to create careers in performance. She is a very fun person to go out with as she is very clever, loves gossip, is hysterical and will be the first one on the dancefloor.
I’m writing my second novel and preparing my stand-up show for its UK tour. The new season of Sewing Bee will be on BBC One later this year and Last One Laughing UK is on Prime Video soon.
Books. Thousands. You can never have enough.
Sara Pascoe is touring her show I Am A Strange Gloop and plays the London Palladium on March 1. She is also appearing at the new Soho Theatre in Walthamstow, Tickets at sarapascoe.co.uk
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