Walthamstow Market

A truly wonderful Saturday. Walthamstow hosts a fabulous mix of peoples from all over the world, and the High Street reflects this. Whichever end you start at, it's very cheap, crowded, eclectic, completely unpretentious and fun. It is twice as long as you think it is, so give it a full afternoon and leave your high heels at home. And don't ignore the shops on either side of the High Street, which are not all the usual chains: some of them are worth the trip alone, especially for foodies. Some of the cafes are superb, with outdoor tables for people watching.

Walthamstow market can be approached from the bottom end (it's on the High Street) by taking the overground train from Liverpool Street and getting off at St James's Street Station, or by taking a Victoria Line tube to Blackhorse Road and either walking (10 mins) or taking a 230 or 158 bus (two stops). Alternatively, stay on the train or underground to Walthamstow Central, or take one of many buses that go there from Leyton or Stratford.