AWARD-winning journalist Anna-Lou Weatherley was once editor of J-17, acting editor at Smash Hits, and has written for Grazia, Company and Marie Claire among others. She grew up in Sidcup and now lives in Beckenham.
She has just published her fourth book Wicked Wives, which is a sizzling story of love lost, revenge, gamblers and bad boys - not to mention uber-glamorous women, five-star locations and designer label living.
Vibe asked Anna-Lou to share her favourite places in south east London.
Greenwich Park
As a teenager I used to hang out at Greenwich Park with friends and boyfriends and do roly polys down the hill, and toboggan in the winter when there was snow.
I have some happy memories spending lazy summer days kissing inappropriate boys under oak trees!
The view of London from the top of the hill near the Observatory is one of my favourites in the whole of London.
I also love feeding the squirrels. Watch out if you’ve got a bag of monkey nuts!
I’ve taken my two boys here a few times to see the deer. I love the fact that you can see wildlife in the middle of London.
Afterwards we head off over to Blackheath common and do some obligatory kite flying, which I am spectacularly bad at.
The Ice Clinic, Beckenham High Street
As a girl who writes about glamour, I like to look the part.
When this clinic opened a couple of years ago I was one of the first to try it out - and boy am I glad I did!
These guys do the most amazing treatments and the girls who work there have become my pals, they’re so friendly. I go there for all my beauty needs.
Jo, one of the therapists there is the best spray tanner and waxer in the south east and is so lovely, which helps during a bikini wax believe me!
The owner, Julie French, is one of the most knowledgeable therapists in London and is such good fun – she knows how to throw a good party, and her Viper facial is a must-have before a big event.
It’s my favourite spa in the whole of London - and I’ve been to a few, believe me!
Bridge House Tavern, Penge High Street
This is a beautiful, chic pub with a real London vibe.
I love the interior, all shabby chic sofas, ghost Louis chairs, mismatching furniture, florid wallpaper, unusual art work, a stunning staircase and huge chandeliers.
It also has a very pretty garden where they throw parties and BBQs in the summer.
They also have live burlesque shows and music and do the best Sunday lunch I’ve had in ages – perfect hangover cure!
The home-made chocolate brownie deserts are a total guilty pleasure!
Wicked Wives by Anna-Lou Weatherley is out July 18 in paperback and e-book.
Follow Anna-Lou on Twitter @annaloulondon.
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