Guide to the Central line

After a wander through Epping Forest, stop for a bite to eat and drink at the oldest pub in the region, The Gardeners Arms. This gastropub serves a menu of classic British fare in a quaint setting in Loughton. Not only is the food and drink a reason to visit, but the outside boasts epic views of London's soaring skyline.

Stretching from Manor Park in east London to north Epping in Essex, Epping Forest is a giant ancient woodland offering a much-needed respite from the fast-paced city life. It's home to many deciduous trees, from silver birch and hornbeams to oak and beech and is a magnificent resource for wildlife.

Only a couple of minutes from Leytonstone station, you'll see The Stone Space, a small and compact art gallery showing contemporary art that provokes thought and debate. Artists are welcome to apply to exhibit here. Events like artist talks and private views also take place, plus the gallery offers volunteering opportunities.

The Leyton Star is a vibrant and buzzy pub with lots going on to keep patrons entertained. Pop-up vendors provide food and there's a full range of drinks. The pub runs events such as quizzes and DJ sets, plus there's a private karaoke room. Inside, it's airy and colourful, but there's also a spacious covered beer garden.

One of the largest shopping centres in the country, Westfield Stratford City is a well-known and popular shopping destination that's especially busy on weekends. A vast range of stores and experiences are available, from fun children's activities to luxury brands and tech. You can recharge at one of the many restaurants here, go bowling, check out the gaming arena, or join special events.

Rusty Bike is not only an East End pub, it also serves a menu of authentic, mouthwatering Thai food. Dishes include crispy chilli crab, a mouthwatering massaman and a fragrant green papaya salad, and much more. Grab a bite to eat al fresco in the front garden, washed down with a pint or two.

The sourdough pizzas at Sodo Pizza are hard to beat, and they taste even better when washed down with a craft beer. The restaurant is located in an old railway arch, and there’s a trendy, rustic feel to the decor. There’s a focus on seasonal, sustainable produce as well as a long list of organic, natural wines.

Humble Grape is an independent wine bar and shop just off Fleet Street. Inside there’s an almost moody but welcoming atmosphere with dark wooden panels and walls lined with wine bottles. There’s an extensive list of wines to enjoy by the glass or carafe and around 200 varieties by the bottle.

The stunning 14th-century architecture that makes up Leadenhall Market in Bank is enough of a reason to visit. But pair that with the plethora of shopping, drinking and dining spots and you’ve got yourself an excellent day out in a buzzy part of the capital.

Alight at St Paul's to see the iconic St. Paul's Cathedral. This Grade I listed cathedral is a highlight of the London skyline and is the second biggest church in the country. Check out the impressive architecture from outside or go inside to tour the building and discover more about it.

Food is fun at Kintan Japanese BBQ. At this warm and welcoming restaurant, diners get to grill meat at the table themselves using smokeless roasters. Lunch and brunch menus are served here, as well as the main menu of meat to grill and other Japanese favourites like noodles, spring rolls, and gyoza.

Discover the magic of Sir John Soane’s incredible house, one of the greatest English architects of our time. He built and lived in his house almost two centuries ago, and it’s been preserved since he died in 1837. Inside you’ll find everything from antiques, furniture and sculptures to architectural models and paintings.

Everyone has played Monopoly once or twice in their lifetime, but they probably haven't played a life-sized version of it. This giant game board invites you to complete challenges to earn as much cash as possible. Then, once you have completed the game, you can head to The Top Hat Restaurant & Bar for a bite to eat and drink.

Feast on delicious food inspired by the incredible wood-fired grills of Italy and Spain at Ember Yard. This restaurant in the heart of Soho is spread over two floors and features a buzzy downstairs bar where you can wind down over small plates and cocktails.

Halcyon Gallery at Harrods in Bond Street is the place to go for incredible artwork by established and up-and-coming artists. You'll find everything from paintings to sculptures and the artists are purposely chosen for their creative flair and ability to bring something innovative to the table.

A patchwork of more than 400 trees, a glistening Serpentine lake and meandering walking trails make up much of Central London’s Hyde Park. It's a popular spot for hiking, biking and visiting the park’s multiple landmarks, like the Diana Memorial Fountain and Speakers’ Corner. There’s also a tennis and sports centre which includes a putting green and football pitches, and a Serpentine Lido for wild, open-air swimming.

Peep through the railings of Hyde Park in Bayswater Road and you'll spot a curious sight – Hyde Park Pet Cemetery. Opened in 1881, this was once the most fashionable place to bury your beloved pet, and the inscriptions on the headstones are sure to tug at your heartstrings. Access is generally restricted but it's possible to arrange special tours.

There's lots of fun to be had at Queens. This colourful venue is popular for its year-round ice rink where you can have lessons or skate for fun. There's also a bowling alley, arcade games, and food and drinks are available. It's a lively destination that's great for adults and kids.

For modern European fare in a fancy setting, head to Gold, a neighbourhood restaurant on Portobello Road specialising in dishes made with seasonal ingredients using specific cooking techniques. Expect to see dishes like chargrilled squid with lemon and chilli and wood-roasted English asparagus served with bottarga.

The beautiful Holland Park offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of busy city life. The adjoining Holland House, an early Jacobean country house, is worth a visit, and there's also a Japanese-style garden with a waterfall and Japanese bridge, home to free-roaming peacocks.

Locals in Shepherd's Bush have been shopping at West 12 Shopping Centre since the 1960s. This modern mall has something for everyone, including designated quiet shopping times and services for autistic guests. As well as a broad array of shops and eateries, you'll discover a gym, cinema, and hotel on the site.

For British-inspired Indian food, head to Kricket in White City. The food served here is rich and packed with flavour, and you can expect a menu of creative delights, like their famous Keralan fried chicken served with curry leaf mayonnaise.

One of the most popular eateries in East Acton is No Drama. This place has even received attention in GQ for its tasty smash burgers. It's a relaxed and friendly spot that's walk-in only. A range of mouthwatering burgers and sandwiches are on the menu, plus hot drinks and a changing selection of softs and alcoholic options.

Get competitive with friends at Boom Battle Bar. This modern and low-lit bar serves drinks, snacks, and pizza, but also offers a whole host of fun activities to try out. Whether you like playing darts, pool, shuffleboard, crazy golf, ping pong, or beer pong, there's something to entertain you. You can even have a go at axe throwing!