You don’t need to be working on an academic thesis to visit the British Library (though it’s certainly the place to be if you are). Join a tour, book an exhibition, or simply take in the awe-inspiring architecture and meditative atmosphere over some coffee and cake. You can book a reading room by reservation.

Regent’s Canal is one of London’s best-kept secrets.Take a leisurely stroll alongside this winding waterway, taking in the colorful narrowboats and quirky little stores, among them the wonderful Word on the Water “book barge” just east of Granary Square. (The square is a great place to join up with the canal.) If you’re up for an hour of walking, head for Little Venice in the west or to Docklands to the east.

Brand new to the area, Coal Drops Yard builds on King’s Cross’s cool image. Victorian-era brick viaducts have undergone a major makeover to emerge as a hangout filled with bars, restaurants, boutiques and galleries. Stylish homebodies must check out Caravane, a cozy store bursting with gorgeous French home furnishings.

An unmissable photo opportunity for die-hard Harry Potter fans, whether you engage the services of the on-site professional photographer in the station concourse or make do with a humble selfie (though that might be tricky when posing to push your luggage trolley through the platform wall).

Kings Place was one of the first “new” attractions to spring up in the regeneration process. Today it’s a thriving arts venue hosting concerts, recitals, festivals, exhibitions and more, as well as the offices of the Guardian newspaper. Grab a drink or bite to eat in the rotunda, which enjoys a fabulous canalside view.