USA

Rivington Guitars, East 4th Street, New York: I recently bought a 1961 Gibson LGO from these guys after going into the store every time I’ve been to New York in the last six months - they are so nice in there, well priced, and very patient and lovely people. rivingtonguitars.com

Mya Moe Ukuleles, Washington: If you like stringed instruments, we think that these are the best quality stringed instruments being made at the moment. I have 2 of their ukes and one of their only 2 mandolins, and they are my favourite instruments. Especially the 6-string tenor ukuleles they make. They even converted Winston, who was an enemy of the ukulele as a banjo player, to loving a well made uke. www.myamoeukuleles.com

UK

The Serpentine Bar & Kitchen, Hyde Park, London: located in the Patrick Gwyne designed building overlooking the Serpentine lake, right in the middle of London. www.serpentinebarandkitchen.com

Charlie Chandler’s Guitar Experience, Hampton Wick: guitar servicing and more (also lenders of mandolins for album recording purposes). guitar-xperience.com

Malden Golf Club, New Malden: If you like golf, and you’re in SW London, try to play here. Such lovely people without any of the exclusive, elitist bullshit that comes with playing golf. Robert, in the pro shop, is a particularly lovely fella. www.maldengolfclub.com

Just Us Organic, Windout Farm, near Exeter in Devon: The best chicken, bacon, sausages and eggs I’ve ever tasted. Seriously good quality food and amazing people. www.justusorganic.co.uk