Wandsworth

Wandsworth sits along a bend of the Thames in south-west London, where the smaller River Wandle threads down to meet it. The borough is flatter and greener than its reputation as inner London suburbia might suggest, with commons and parkland breaking up the streets of Victorian terraces and newer riverside developments. It is a place defined as much by its water as by its buildings, the two rivers giving the area a settled, leafy character even close to the centre.

There is only one self-catering option listed here, The Bean Flat, reflecting that Wandsworth is not really a destination people travel to for a country escape. It is far more a base for exploring London itself, or for visiting family and friends who live locally, with the borough's transport links making it easy to reach the rest of the city.

For things to do, Wandsworth leans towards family-friendly and active pursuits rather than grand sights. Putt in The Park offers a relaxed round of crazy golf, Adventure Zone Wandsworth is built for letting off energy, and Gravity MAX Wandsworth adds trampolining and games to the mix. Together they make the borough a good option for a day out with children, or simply an active afternoon away from the usual London itinerary.

Altogether, Wandsworth works best as a place to eat well and stay active rather than to sightsee in the traditional sense. Its rivers and green spaces give it room to breathe, its restaurants give it plenty of reasons to linger, and its position within easy reach of central London means it never feels cut off from the rest of the city.