Racing about in a frenzy? Not anymore.

Adopt a life of scholarly leisure at The Idler Academy now open in Notting Hill.

Founded by professional slackers Tom Hodgkinson and Victoria Hull, the cosy spot is equal parts bookshop, coffeehouse and school. Homemade cakes and fresh coffee are served throughout the day, and a handpicked range of cerebral tomes (Huxley, Mitford, Virgil, Plato and The Idler’s own publications) and downtime accessories (pencils, exercise books, geometry sets and playing cards) are available for purchase.

The Academy, which aims to return dignity to the art of loafing, also hosts a mass of cultural activities for wandering wastrels: book in for a Latin lesson or ukulele masterclass or discuss The Decline in Grammatical Standards with writer and free-schoolist Toby Young.

Don’t all rush at once.

The Idler Academy, 81 Westbourne Park Road, W2 5QH (08452 501281 or idler.co.uk).

Photo: Courtesy of The Idler Academy