When BBC favourite Giovanni Pernice left Strictly Come Dancing, amid a scandal with dance partner Amanda Abbington from which he was cleared, fans had feared he'd fled to Italy forever. However, Express can confirm that he'd "never left" London, where he still has a flat - not far from his idol Freddie Mercury.

Now, ahead of today's London Palladium show, where he will perform to the tune of Queen and Prince as part of his The Last Dance tour, we share the best places to visit in his neighbourhood, Imperial Wharf. Wedged between two of London's most exclusive districts, Chelsea and Fulham, and a stone's throw from Chelsea Harbour, the area is celebrities favourite spot known for its riverside views, fine dining and world-class pubs. Let Me Entertain You singer Robbie Williams and retired Batman actor Michael Caine live virtually on Gio's doorstep, while Elton John and David Beckham have homes not far away too.

Almost the first building you'll see as you exit Imperial Wharf station is the Hilton Doubletree Chelsea hotel and it makes a great base for anyone who's not within commuting distance of the capital.

The scrumptious warm cookies offered at check-in are a real treat, while those not staying can still enjoy the onsite restaurant Cre, with its tropical print furnishings and a mixture of Thai, Sri Lankan and British classic dishes.

A short walk away is the famed Waterside Pub, which, true to its name, has two large terraces overlooking the Thames - and three floors of indoor space in case it rains.

There are wines, beers, cocktails and meals with fresh seasonal ingredients, including a famed brunch, while another gastropub with rave reviews, singer James Blunt's The Fox and Pheasant, is less than a 15 minute walk away.

The You're Beautiful singer, who served in the army with Prince Harry, attended his wedding to Meghan Markle and counts royal family members as his friends, loves to spend time there when he's not living at his primary residence on the island of Ibiza.

If Giovanni decides to splash the cash, there's an exclusive private members' club a half hour walk away, The Other House South Kensington.

Joining fees are pricey but one way to access the club and spa without committing to the annual fee is to book a stay at the adjoining luxury apartment hotel - which also happens to be just down the road from the Royal Albert Hall.

Meanwhile, Gio has never made a secret of his love for Gola - a nearby Fulham restaurant famed for its aphrodisiac ingredients that get guests "high".

He famously dined there with Rose Ayling-Ellis after the pair won Strictly back in 2021 - and is said to love the libido-boosting "mad honey" dishes.

Giovanni performs at the London Palladium tonight (May 4) from 5pm.