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With its huge population, reputation as a centre of commerce and sheer geographic spread, Greater London’s status as a major world metropolis is assured.

To the insider however, the city feels more like a collection of villages or small towns. Londoners tend to be fiercely protective of their own distinct neighbourhoods and the age-old rivalries between North and South, East and West look set to rage for years to come.

While the well-trodden tourist routes of the city - the bustling West End, Theatreland, and historic castles, palaces, churches and cathedrals - have much to recommend them, it can be surprisingly easy to take time out from the centre and the crowds. Out in the real London there are some real oases of calm, which are also every bit as historically fascinating, culturally compelling and plain good fun as anything the centre has to offer

So, let your compass spin North, South, East or West and take a trip out to any one of these fascinating destinations, all easily accessible with a daily Travelcard.

North London: Highgate 

Situated high above glorious Hampstead Heath (well worth a ramble, especially in the summer months) lies the historic suburb of Highgate. Long beloved by some of the city's wealthiest citizens and celebrities past and present (residents have included Victoria Wood, George Michael and Peter Sellers) Highgate retains a quietly grand and uniquely enigmatic atmosphere whilst being a mere 20 minute Tube ride from the centre of town.

A visit to historic Highgate Cemetery is a must. Having fallen into dilapidation by the mid-1970s, the area is now a Grade II Park and listed by English Heritage as one of 'outstanding historical and architectural interest'. It's also a contender for London’s most beautiful and serene open space. Home to all manner of spectacular Gothic mausoleums and gravestones, Karl Marx's tomb and the Egyptian Avenue are especially impressive.

By contrast, fashionable Highgate Village offers a great mix of quirky shops, bars and restaurants. Here, the renowned gastropub The Bull does a roaring trade at lunch and dinner, while the charming 1940s-inspired High Tea Of Highgate specialize in typically English home-made cakes and scones, washed down with gallons of the national drink. You'll think you're in an Agatha Christie mystery.

Finally, Kenwood House at the northern edge of the Heath is home to Guinness family member Lord Iveagh’s art collection, bequeathed to the nation at his death in 1927. Situated within the elegant 17^th Century stately home, Kenwood’s galleries contain works by Vermeer, Rembrandt, Gainsborough and Reynolds, while its landscaped gardens have sculptures of special significance by Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth.

Transport Links 

Highgate Cemetery: Archway Tube

Highgate Village: Highgate Tube

Kenwood House: Archway Tube then 210 bus 

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