My London: David Linley

He may be the Queen's nephew but that doesn't stop David Linley from hopping on his bike and cycling to work. What else does he love about London town? The pubs, markets and the tasty pasta they serve in the restaurant across the road from his shop. Alistair Duncan gets the royal treatment.

Where do you live and why? Currently, north of Hyde Park. I've lived all over London, as I like moving from place to place. London is a series of villages, really. I like that.

How long have you lived there? I moved there last year. It's convenient as it's near to where I work.

Where were the last three places you went on holiday? Thailand, Scotland and France. All were with my family. Thailand was great: wonderful people, beautiful architecture and furniture.

What was the last play you saw in London? Art with Nigel Havers at Wyndham's Theatre. That was a long time ago, but it was fantastic.

What advice would you give to a tourist? Look up at the architecture - most tourists drive around in cars when sightseeing and they miss it. All the Wren churches in the City, for instance, are spectacular.

Who is in your secret address book? The Farmers' Market on Pimlico Road. It has some wonderful stallholders selling both organic and nonorganic produce. Also, Ciancimino and Stephen Long Antiques on Fulham Road; both sell fabulous furniture.

Harvey Nicks or Selfridges? I love them both. They're great London landmarks. Peter Jones is excellent, too.

What do you miss when you're out of London? It has such a magnetic pull. I'm usually relieved to go away, but as soon as I do, I want to come back again. There's something about the hustle and bustle.

What would you do if you were Mayor for the day? Do something generous to cheer everyone up.

What is your life philosophy? I make dreams become reality. I think of things that never were and say, 'Why?'

What are your extravagances? Writing letters. I love using all my paraphernalia, like my roll blotter and flat blotter which I produce myself.

What are your favourite shops? Labour and Wait off Brick Lane, which sells houseand gardenware. They stock all kinds of things and their presentation is lovely. Blanchard also sells nice furniture.

Do you have a favourite pub? The Blackfriar on Queen Victoria Street. It's very beautiful - an Arts and Crafts pub.

What is in your winter wardrobe? All of my spring wardrobe. I buy things that last.

What was the last CD you bought? Gold by Ryan Adams. I used to be a voracious radio listener, but not any more.

What was the last book you bought? Prince of Princes: The Life of Potemkin by Simon Sebag Montefiore. I haven't finished it yet, but it's good so far - very informative.

What is your earliest London memory? I was born in London, so I have a few. My parents used to take me to lots of museums. I remember going to see the Leonardo cartoon, The Virgin and Child with St Anne and St John the Baptist at the National Gallery. It stands out because I went to see just that one exhibit, not an entire museum, so it seemed more of an event.

What are your favourite home comforts? Seeing my wife Serena and my children, Charles and Margarita.

How do you get around town? On a fine day, I'm a keen cyclist. But I also have a motorbike and a car.

What have been your most memorable London meals? I often eat at L'Incontro opposite my shop, both for celebrations and work lunches. They're a young husband-and-wife team who are very accommodating. The service is great, as is the ambience. Their steamed bass and crab tagliolini are superb.

What aftershave do you wear? French Lavender Extract of Lime from Trumpers. I like both.