Hollie from new project Books on the Underground talks London with us!
It’s as simple as it sounds – books travelling around the London Underground network waiting to be read.
They Say: ‘Think of us as your local library, but without the late fees. Just be sure to put them back when you’ve finished.’
We say: ‘Look out for a book near your ass’.
We caught up with Hollie, the wise owl behind the ‘Books on the Underground’ project, and here’s what she had to say about London…
Tell us about your favourite secret/offbeat places in London?
Most of my time is spent in and around where I live, Dalston. There’s a lot of interesting things to do and see. For eating, drinking and entertainment, The White Rabbit, Bistrotheque, Cafe Oto and the Arcola Theatre are my favourites. And when I’m looking for somewhere to relax, I’ll take a good book down one of the most underrated parks in London, Haggerston. But at this time of year a Sunday showing at the Aubin Cinema in Shoreditch with a pot of tea and blanket suits me perfectly.
What offbeat events are on your To Do List in the next month or so?
I’m not sure I’d call this off-beat, but I’m most looking forward to attending the Gala party premiere of The Bodyguard in aid of St Johns ambulance. Alternatively, as a massive gin fan I am going to make a trip to the Gin Gardens in Maida Vale.
What are your favourite things to do for free or little money in London?
In summer I like nothing more than a walk along regents canal. A good route is Warwick Avenue towards Camden where you get to nosey at the magnificent houses in Regents Park. Otherwise I’m a huge fan of just pottering around some of the great markets in east London. Particularly, York Hall for the vintage furniture fairs and brick lane for the array of delicious street foods.
What’s your ultimate London confession?
I buy all of my books from Oxfam on Kingsland Road. You won’t find a better bookshop in London.
What event or product of your own would you like to pimp on To Do List?
Books On The Underground. A project i have recently started. Where we allow people to share books on their commute by leaving them on the tube for others to pick up and enjoy. So next time you find a great book left on a tube seat, you’ll know it comes from us. But make sure you remember to return it for someone else to enjoy.
I am Joint Editor at To Do List. I like free, cheap & offbeat London, especially: cabaret, art, theatre, pop-ups, eating out, quirky films, museums, day trips, social enterprise & much more.
