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My London: Will Young
By Charlotte Williamson Last updated at 00:00am on 04.10.02
Will Young: Mmm, M&S sarnies
Where do you live and why?
Near Portobello Market. I am staying in a friend’s spare room. I love the place and love wandering around. If I ever have a morning off I’ll spend it walking through the market.
How long have you lived there?
About a year. Before Notting Hill I lived in Battersea, opposite the park.
What was the last play you saw in London and did you enjoy it?
The Coast Of Utopia by Tom Stoppard at the National Theatre. It was really good — but Tom Stoppard always makes me feel really stupid.
Who’s in your secret address book?
123 in Maida Vale is the best dry-cleaners I know. The best Italian deli is Speck, off Holland Park Avenue. And for takeaways I like Ginger, a Bangladeshi restaurant on Westbourne Grove.
What’s your earliest London memory?
Going to the Tower Of London. I can’t remember how old I was, but I was pretty young.
What do you miss most when you’re out of London?
Notting Hill. It’s a very welcoming place to come home to with its pretty, tree-lined streets and smart townhouses.
What is your favourite home comfort?
A glass of Australian white wine.
What are your extravagances?
Food. I spend so much in supermarkets. If there’s £5 off a bottle of something I’ll buy it. I always get taken in. I’m one of those dense people advertisers love.
What would you do if you were Mayor for the day?
I’d change the upcoming congestion charges. I just don’t see how it’s going to work.
What is your life philosophy?
I have two. Don’t worry about things that haven’t happened. And treat people as you expect to be treated.
Do you have a favourite pub?
The Coopers Arms just off the King’s Road. I also like the bar in the Sanderson.
Where do you get your hair cut?
Richard Ward on Sloane Street. He’s absolutely brilliant.
Are there any new places you’ve discovered since winning Pop Idol?
Smiths of Smithfield, a restaurant/bar, has a nice vibe on a Sunday. But I’m really happiest with a cup of coffee.
What is your favourite shop?
John Smedley in Brook Street. I only ever wear John Smedley.
Harvey Nicks or Selfridges?
Harvey Nichols for the top-floor restaurant. But I was in Selfridges with my stylist recently.
Where were the last three places you went on holiday?
The South of France, Italy and Costa Rica, which is ecologically the best place in the world.
How do you get around town?
I drive an old Golf. I’m always getting lost but driving is the best way to find out about a city.
What’s in your autumn wardrobe?
I haven’t sorted it out yet, but there’s a Burberry coat I want — it’s leather with unfinished edges.
What was the last CD you bought?
One of Nina Simone’s. I bought it at Greenwich Market.
What have been your most memorable London meals?
I’ve had many great meals at The Depot brasserie in Barnes. But my absolute favourite is picnics, getting sandwiches from M&S and heading to the Serpentine in Hyde Park.
What was the last book you read?
Facing Up by Bear Grylls. It was great. He’s the guy who climbed Everest at 23. It’s very inspiring. I’d love to meet him.
