User:Nicholasjf21/London/Further Afield

To the east

Bluewater

Bluewater, Greenhithe, Kent. DA9 9ST. Telephone (0870) 777 0252

• Official site

Nearest railway station:Greenhithe for Bluewater (trains from London Charing Cross). Take shuttle bus 100 from the station.

Europe's largest shopping centre, with over 200 shops, restaurants and cinemas all under one roof.

Ridley Road Market

At the beginning of the 20th century Ridley Road was a centre of the Jewish community. Since that time, Asians, Greeks, Turks and West Indians have also settled in the area and today Ridley Road market is a vibrant celebration of this cultural mix.

Highlights of this excellent market include a 24-hour bagel bakery, cheap fruit and vegetables, the sound of reggae music, exotic produce, colourful fabric stalls, and a Turkish supermarket. It's the Antithesis of Bluewater and there are no chain stores or multi-national corps here.

It is in Dalston, Hackney E8.

The silverlink overland train takes you to the entrance, or for buses: 30,38,149 & 46

Market information

To the south

Brighton

• Brighton & Hove

Nearest railway station:Brighton (trains from London Bridge and London Victoria). Trains take just over one hour.

Summertime in Brighton

This is probably best for a day trip if you're staying in London. Brighton is a vibrant and colourful city on the south coast, with a wonderful beach. Make sure to see the Royal Pavilion in the city centre, and go to the beach!

To the west

Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace, East Molesley, Surrey. KT8 9AU. Telephone (0870) 752 7777

• Official site

Nearest railway station: Hampton Court (trains from London Waterloo)

An amazing palace, providing over 500 years of royal history. Highlights include King Henry VIII's state apartments and the Palace Gardens, which have their own maze.

Windsor

• Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Nearest railway station: Windsor and Eton Central (trains from London Paddington)

This picturesque town is home to Windsor Castle, where the Queen lives. There are many fine shops here as well. Legoland Windsor is also easily accessible from the town.