Orpington

Orpington marks the point where Greater London gives way to Kent, a suburban town on the capital's southeastern fringe with the rolling countryside of the North Downs not far beyond its edges. It has the feel of a place that is neither fully city nor fully countryside, and that in-between quality is much of its appeal. Streets of ordinary suburban houses sit close to green space, and the town centre itself is busy and self-contained, with everything visitors need close at hand.

Most people staying in Orpington are here because of its position rather than the town itself, using it as a base for exploring both London and the Kent countryside without the cost or crowds of staying more centrally. The train links into the city are the main draw, but the town has enough going on to make it worth lingering in too.

Where Orpington really delivers is in the sheer number and variety of places to eat. With well over a hundred restaurants, the choice runs from traditional British at Scotts Pie & Mash to Indian cooking at Ramsden Tandoori, with Raasa offering another take on the cuisine. Sjayz Restaurant And Wine Bar suits a more relaxed evening out, Smacks Hamburgers - Orpington covers casual dining, and Semosh adds further variety to the mix. For daytime visits, Puccino's Cafe And Kiosk and Queensway Tearooms & Bakery are good for coffee, cake or a proper English tea.

Taken together, Orpington works well as a comfortable, practical base at the edge of London, with the countryside close by and no shortage of places to eat once the day's exploring is done.