Once known as London's "Little Italy" due to its large Itailan population from the middle of the 19th century, Clerkenwell had a huge makeover during the 1990s and the area is now known for warehouse conversions, nightclubs, restaurants and art galleries.

We caught up with local boy, Jake Arnott, whose crime writing is popular both sides of the Atlantic, and listen to him wax lyrical about the area so close to his heart. While Tim Teeman takes us through his top three first date venues. For those with a thespian tilt, the fringe theatre venue, The Red Lion, is worth a visit. If you prefer a more traditional first date the plethora of bars, clubs and restaurants crowd in to this small part of east London. For further suggestions from Tim and plenty more on the cultural delights of the area, click on the player above to watch this edition of Cool in Your Code.

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