Having had a fantastic time in East Yorkshire for the past nine days, I am back and looking forward to hearing all about your breaks away (in the U. K. or beyond). I hope all my followers are staying healthy and happy in these strange times, so it would be lovely to get a few comments to check in as it were. Meanwhile, back to the regular blogging business. Here are a few ideas of things to do in London this week thanks to Country and Townhouse:

The new Notting Hill café to get excited about, plus why you should embark on a 'bubble' holiday

We’ve been working jolly hard here at virtual HQ, publishing four print issues within the space of two weeks, as well as starting to return to the office and getting the children back to school. So, finally, am I allowed to think about a little solo spa trip just for me, please? I’m suffering from a severe case of lockdown tummyitis and it needs fixing. In the meantime, let us fill your diary with the most fun things to do, eat, read or try this week. And for more ideas, our weekly podcast, Break Out Culture, with hosts Ed Vaizey and Charlotte Metcalf, kicks off its new season tomorrow.

Happy listening.

Lucy

FIVE THINGS YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS

Delight in a spot of ‘Chelsea Afternoon Tea’ at the Saatchi Gallery Brasserie and Bar. British potters Wedgwood and wine house Louis Pommery have put together a decadent menu fused with seasonal British ingredients, served on Wedgwood’s Wonderlust tea ware with a glass of fizz. From 7 September.

Embark on a ‘Bubble Holiday’ with Wild Frontiers and explore some of the world’s most remarkable and remote destinations, from Mongolian deserts to Kazakhstan’s mountains and lakes. Enjoy your very own private guided tour, or travel as part of a group of six with a bespoke itinerary. wildfrontierstravel.com

Highbury and Crouch End’s beloved neighbourhood café Beam is coming to Notting Hill. Be one of the first to indulge in the new site’s delicious breakfast and brunch menu featuring the likes of Turkish eggs, Nutella-filled brioche French toast and goat's cheese and beetroot benedict. Opens 7 September.

Take to the water for a film night you won’t forget. Häagen Dazs and GoBoat London have joined forces to create the UK’s very first float-in cinema, The Openaire, in which film-fanatics can enjoy an array of movie classics from an eco-boat on the Paddington Basin. Photo: David Parry/PA Wire.

Our all-new House Guest webinar series, hosted by Carole Annett, kicks off this month with a chat with Emma South, fragrance expert at illustrious British brand Jo Malone. Discover the Art of Home Scenting, plus an exclusive preview of the perfumery's The Townhouse Collection. 4pm, 16 September. Register here.

WHAT’S GETTING US THROUGH THE WEEK

AIR & GRACE SNEAKERS

I don’t think I’ve worn a comfier pair of trainers than those by British brand Air & Grace with their hidden ‘footbed’. They’ve got a new vegan range launching soon but this vintage-looking pair with grey suede detail is the one that really caught my eye (£149). My feet feel like they’re in a cocoon of cushions.

MODERN MUSE ART

Art is the one thing I’d buy more of if I could afford it. It always has meaning as you choose things you’ll want to live with and see every day. I’ve recently come across Modern Muse Art, a new website showcasing up and coming talent with some fabulous pieces, ranging from around £600-£5,000… and I’m thinking maybe, just maybe… My birthday is coming up after all.

A VINTAGE LOUIS VUITTON KEEPALL BY JAY AHR

Now this is a fun idea. One&Only has just launched the heritage collection by Jay Ahr, a limited edition of custom-designed vintage Louis Vuitton Keepalls, inspired by 10 of One&Only’s global destinations. Mine’s the Wolgan Valley, Australia one – which would reflect a bit of my own heritage.

COCHINE

I met Kate Crofton-Atkins, the founder of Cochine, an exquisite bath, body and scent brand, when she launched it back in 2008. I still have some sample bottles of her scent (the white jasmine and gardenia, and the tuberose and wild fig) that I keep in my washbag and only spritz on very special occasions. I don’t think I’ve ever worn it without it being commented on about how lovely I smell. Just thought I’d pass that on….