Thea, fresh from the South Downs

Thea's idea of a good day has mud on it. Her idea of a good evening has sushi. She walks long distances for fun, usually the chalk paths of the South Downs, and cycles everywhere in London on a battered bike she refuses to replace, and she turns up to an evening cheerful, warm and without a trace of pretence. She has walked most of the South Downs Way in stages and plans to finish it next summer.

Caramel blonde, green eyed and curvy at 165 cm, she keeps her look sunlit and natural: very little make up, a good dress, flat shoes that can handle a cobbled mews. She is in her late twenties. Her English is plain spoken and warm, she laughs at herself easily, and she has a talent for putting nervous people at ease within a few minutes of meeting them. Ask her for a recommendation and you get a real one, with directions. She is never precious about plans.

Japanese food is her treat, and Zuma on Raphael Street in Knightsbridge is her idea of a special occasion: the robata grill, a long bar, a room full of noise and good cooking. She orders dishes you cannot pronounce and makes you taste every one. After dinner, a slow walk back through the quiet Knightsbridge streets to your hotel, talking about the next long walk she has planned. She is also very good company for a quieter night in, room service and a map of your next trip spread across the desk.

Thea lives in South Kensington, a short ride from Knightsbridge and the SW7 hotels. Early evenings and easy suppers suit her; ask Henrietta for her next free night.