London

Waterloo Riverside walk market At its liveliest on a Sunday, this market, on the riverside outside the British Film Institute, is heaven for bookworms. Tomes of all descriptions with plenty of nearby cafes to refrersh yourself.

Colindale, NW9 Royal Air Force Museum

Bethnal Green, E2 Columbia Road flower market Go there for the flowers but there is also the bagels, the boutiques, the curiosity shops, the antiques, the art galleries, the restaurants, cafes and coffee shops. Pick up a bargain with great deals on Christmas tress, houseplants and all manner of exotic greenery Aldgate East, Liverpool Street Spitafields Market Shopaholic heaven. Stalls selling everything from ome-off fashions and ethnic homewares to eco toiletries and bespoke kids toys. And don't miss their permanent classy boutiques. Unwind over lunch in one of the many eateries Bow Mile End path Victoria Park Roman Road Market

One of the capital's great rural and riverside outposts From some early morning head space, nothing beats standing on top of King Henry's Mound in Richmond Park. On a clear day, you can see St Paul's Cathedral in the distance. The town has charming back alleys. The White Horse is one of Richmond's best pubs with tables on the tiny balcony overlooking the Thames. There are farmers markets (Saturday at Heron Square). Paradise Road and Red Lion Street is an area that is rarely discovered by tourists. It is home to comic collectors shop They Walk Among Us and also the atmospheric Tea Box where a quick stop for scones and a cuppa can easily turn into an afternoon sampling the cafe's impressive array of blends.