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Exploring London's Outer Districts

There are 32 colourful boroughs in London, but it’s easy for tourists to stick to the central few. Whether you feel like you’ve exhausted the city centre or you’re keen to see how real Londoners live, visit some of the capital’s outer districts and open your eyes to the diversity of the city.

What are London’s outer boroughs?

Officially, London’s outer boroughs include Barnet, Bexley, Croydon, Ealing, and Richmond-upon-Thames, to name just a few. If you’re planning a trip to London and you want to stay somewhere different, why not choose one of the city’s bustling outer boroughs and experience the reality of London living?

Barnet

Barnet is London’s second-largest borough and boasts the second-highest population of trees in the city. That’s over 32,000 trees lining the streets and filling parks in Barnet. While you’re exploring the area, it’ll be impossible to avoid passing through one of 200 family-friendly parks, nature reserves, and open spaces. 
The borough is well connected by Northern Line stations, so you can nip in and out of central London with ease. There are some great spots for lunch and dinner, providing you know where to look, and London’s first American-style shopping centre Brent Cross offers visitors retail from designer and high-street brands.
The architecture of the Outer Boroughs is diverse yet beautiful
The architecture of the Outer Boroughs is diverse yet beautiful

Croydon

Outer yet popular Croydon is one of the leading financial, business, and retail boroughs in London, and is currently undergoing a £3.5 billion regeneration project. With a perfect blend of green spaces and a swishy business centre, Croydon is so attractive that it’s become the second most populated borough in London.

Thanks to its Indian and Jamaican influences, the borough boasts a variety of heritage-inspired independent shops and eateries, as well as some high-street retailers and Michelin-listed restaurants.

Hotels near East Croydon Station

Are you planning to stay in Croydon? Our ibis Styles London Croydon Hotel is close to the centre of Croydon, and just a mile and a half from East Croydon Station, making access to the rest of the city easy.

The Thames is one of the most well known rivers in the world
The Thames is one of the most well known rivers in the world

Richmond-upon-Thames

It’s far enough out of Central London to feel residential, but it’s bursting with all the shops, bars, and restaurants you could ask for on your weekend away. Nature lover? Visit Richmond Park to see deer roaming freely or stroll along the banks of the Thames and enjoy the view.
The streets of Richmond are lined with historic terraced houses and impressive family homes, and the borough is well connected by the district line and over-ground services.
Convinced? Explore London’s outer boroughs on your next visit and get a feel for the city away from the sheeny tourist trail. Discover your new favourite part of London, and you’ll have a reason to return again and again.

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