Naomie Harris' My London

Home is…

I’m a North Londoner, born and bred. I’ve tried to move to different areas but I always return.

First thing you do when you arrive in London?

Go to Floatworks in London Bridge, where I lie in an enclosed pod floating on salt water in the dark. I’m obsessed with floating because it’s a bit like being back in the womb and also a good way of getting over jet lag.

Best place for a first date?

Bob Bob Ricard on Upper James Street. Everyone has their own leather booth.

Best meal you’ve had?

Sakura on Conduit Street. It’s an authentic Japanese restaurant and very understated. I always order the spinach with sesame sauce, which doesn’t sound very appetising but it is.

Building you’d like to be locked in overnight?

The Science Museum, so I wouldn’t have to queue to play on all the gadgets. I’m a geek at heart.

Best piece of advice you’ve been given?

Dawn French paid for my first Equity card after we worked together on a corporate video when I was 17. She told me I’d need to develop a thick skin for the acting world.

Earliest memory?

Walking home from school along the streets of Finsbury Park. I was allowed to walk home alone from the age of eight and I’d do it with such pride.

Building you’d most like to live in?

A North London church. A friend used to live in a tiny studio at the top of a church and there was always an amazing energy when I went to visit her.

Which animal would you like to be?

A cat — they always find the most comfortable and warmest spots.

What do you collect?

Nothing, I’m always trying to declutter. I once lived out of a suitcase for three years because I didn’t want to become attached to anything.

What would you do as Mayor?

Get rid of pay-by-phone parking permits, they’re such a rip-off.

Favourite London discovery?

Elaine, an instructor at Studio 74 in London Bridge, she does amazing Gyrotonic work-outs.

Best thing a London cabbie has said to you?

‘Smile, it might never happen.’ I never feel grumpy but I must sometimes look it.

Have you had a run-in with a London policeman?

Definitely no run-ins, I don’t think I’ve ever spoken to a policeman other than to ask directions.

Favourite shops?

I love my local high streets for Planet Organic and Whole Foods. People get really excited about shopping for shoes but I get excited when I find an amazing organic lettuce. For books, I like the Waterstones near Goodge Street because it’s huge and it reminds me of studying in Cambridge University’s libraries, surrounded by knowledge.

At the moment you are...

Getting ready to go to the Oscars for the first time. I’ve decided on an eco-dress made from sweet wrappers by Vivienne Westwood.

Most romantic thing someone’s done for you?

I’m not much of a romantic. A walk on Hampstead Heath, holding hands in the sunshine, is all I need.

Best place to let your hair down?

I love cooking and being cooked for, so I’d have friends over and cook them vegetarian lasagne with jerk seasoning.