Nick Paulson-Ellis is the Founder and CEO of The Sports Edit, the UK’s leading destination for fashion-forward activewear, offering a carefully curated selection of the most stylish, innovative sportswear sourced from all over the world. He has had an entrepreneurial career spanning various industries from venture capital to investment banking to fashion, taking him on adventures around the world, including many years in India. Nick is a keen runner and occasional yogi.
We caught up with Nick for the latest in our ‘My London’ interview series.
Favourite neighbourhood:
Spitalfields – I used to work in The Old Truman Brewery, and I love how Spitalfields straddles different sides of London, with the contrasting elements of the City, East End and Brick Lane.
Favourite place for brunch:
Granger & Co in Clerkenwell. A lovely space with an unusual, healthy yet delicious menu. The ‘Fresh Aussie’ is epic, and they have Sipsmith’s breakfast martini’s for the brave. Though I have to add an honorary mention for 26 Grains in Neal’s Yard, as who knew a bowl of porridge could be elevated to such a thing of beauty.
Best coffee in London:
BICA, in Westbourne Park station. Small spot, but it has that commitment to excellence that any great coffee needs.
Favourite gallery or museum:
The Tate Modern. I was there queuing to get in on its opening in 2000, and the scale and changing nature of the space remains thrilling.
Tell us a secret:
As a rather destructive nine year old I took offence to someone building a house next to my parents place, so rather unwisely decided to fill the petrol tank of the JCB with mud to slow things down. It did eventually move again, but in the meantime, I was terrified I’d be found out.
Favourite place to shop:
Rockett St George – a true online emporium of beautiful, unusual and often quirky things for the home.
Favourite place to find inspiration:
At the moment, it is LA rather than London. Whilst London is the beating heart of the fashion industry, for activewear and the wider wellness trends LA is at the forefront, and many of our favourite brands like Alo Yoga hail from LA. I go twice a year on inspiration and buying trips.
Best London destination for a date:
The Bleeding Heart, tucked away in a courtyard near Farringdon. A timeless French restaurant with warmth, charm and a world-beating wine list.
Favourite park:
As Londoners, we are lucky to have so many to choose from, but I live in Barnes so Richmond Park has to be my favourite. My kids can run wild and build dens in this vast space right on London’s doorstep.
Favourite food market:
Borough Market – a predictable choice, but if food is your thing, the oldest remains the best.
Your sanctuary in the city:
Running along the Thames Path. I run along various stretches and there is no better way to clear my mind.
What inspires you?
Listening to entrepreneurs talk about their journeys and how they overcome obstacles. Starting any business is really hard, and dealing with the challenges can be a lonely experience, so hearing others talk about the tenacity and stamina required to succeed is a constant source of inspiration.
This season I’m loving:
adidas Ultra Boosts. They might just be the best trainers ever made. I’m developing an unhealthy addiction and my wife is questioning quite why I need so many colourways.
