My London: Sarah Jessica Parker

I first came to London when I was 11 and rehearsing for a play directed by Harold Pinter. I’d watch the Changing of the Guard with my father and one day, I took my cardigan off because it was so warm and draped it over the gate of Buckingham Palace. I went back the next day and it was still there. My dad exclaimed: ‘Look how civilised the people of London are — they’re so honest and honour-bound!’ Then I said: ‘Some day when I’m a grown-up, I’ll live in London because that’s where grown-ups live.’

Best place for a first date?

Beiteddine, an incredible Lebanese restaurant on Harriet Street. My husband [Matthew Broderick] and I stumbled upon it many years before we had kids. It’s patronised by Lebanese so it’s the real deal.

Last play you saw?

It was a beautiful, exquisite Conor McPherson play at the Donmar Warehouse called The Night Alive. It would be an honour to appear on the West End stage. People have made lovely offers but it’s hard to schedule around work and family commitments.

What do you collect?

I collect old sinks — I’m dead serious. I particularly love Belfast sinks, if I can find them. I keep them in my basement and have quite a decent collection.

Ever had a run-in with a policeman?

In 1979, my mother and I were taking the train to the airport and somebody told us we had missed our stop. My mom pulled the emergency cord, the train came to a screeching halt and she jumped off. A police officer told my mother that ‘not in the history of British rail’ had this ever happened.

Who do you call when you want to have fun?

I always try to see Mr Hugh Grant when I’m in town. We usually have spaghetti bolognese with mutual friends at Claridge’s.

What are you up to at the moment?

I’ve just launched my new fragrance, Stash. I feel such gratitude towards my customers here in London.

If you could buy any building in London, which would it be?

This apartment block called Moscow Mansions [on Cromwell Road]. I die for them — just the way the numbers are painted on the front and the font of the M. It’s like a scene from every book I’ve ever read set in London.

What would you do as Mayor for the day?

I’m so thrilled with your new Mayor especially in this particular climate, so I wouldn’t even want to think of taking the job. His election was not only a great comfort to a lot of us who are in the midst of a very complicated election season but it also told a great story of this city — I’m very excited about him.

First thing you do when you arrive here?

Tate Modern is traditionally my first stop. It’s such a special museum and I’m always excited to see a new exhibit or just to visit the permanent collection again.

Stash by Sarah Jessica Parker, priced £20–£60, is available at Superdrug.