The stage shows are the stuff of lewd legend: Dita von Teese made her UK debut at TG; there are frequently hardcore body modification and manipulation demonstrations featuring everything from extreme piercings to contortion to people being suspended from ropes attached to hooks poked through their skin; and it’s not uncommon to see fireworks been set off from performers’ orifices, paint and milk being shot out of vaginas, and lasers shining from the bumhole of a trapeze artist. Innovative fillings ensconced in fluffy, pillowy bao buns… it’s no wonder that London’s gone crazy for Bao.

London’s sex-positive parties The not-so-secret new wave of London’s sex-positive parties

There are more than 22,000 music performances a year across London's 300+ venues including the O2 arena - the world's most popular music venue. This essay was published in the May 1932 issue of Good Housekeeping (volume 21, issue 3). Woolf describes her experience of visiting St Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey and St Clement Danes.Much more than just a running club, Midnight Runners gives you the chance to do something healthy and invigorating with your evening while escaping the confines of your local gym. They're a worldwide movement as well, with clubs in cities across the world such as LA, Sydney, Barcelona and more. Go for it and join in, your body will thank you later. The rich diversity of the city’s theatre scene means there is always something to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a hot piece of new writing or a revival of a classic, London has something for you. The theatre buildings themselves are also awe-inspiring, with some having hosted plays for centuries. And it’s not just West End plays that are popular: you can also see London musicals , comedies and operas in some magnificent buildings. When to visit:Whenan Indian summeris in the air – a big beer garden is accommodating and the beers can be easily classified as ‘sessionable’. When to visit: When you tire of crawling along this famous hoppy stretch of London, make this jumbo HQ your one-stop shop. Don’t get it twisted (told you we’re down with the young folk) the food here is quality, and deserves all the hype it gets. Don’t forget to try a drop of their homemade sriracha sauce.

London nightlife: inspiration for a night out in London Best London nightlife: inspiration for a night out in London

When to visit: They're closed Monday and Tuesday, but we recommend a mid-week or Sunday sesh to beat the crowds and have a chill one.Seasonal Italian dishes spanning the country’s regions from heel to tip? There’s nothing not to love about the food at Paesan, where Italian street food meets countryside cuisine. Seeking top-notch burlesque? Then head toThe Two Brewers in Clapham for Clandestine Cabaret. Expect live performances from the likes of ZeeZee Stardust to Aya L 'Storm, alongside a roster of video entertainment, including comedy, drag or musical theatre. In a city where new restaurants open on a daily basis, it can be a tough job working out where to find your next best eat. Not after this.