Around Town

The problem
Nikki, Islington ‘Having always lived south of the river, I’ve just bought a flat in Islington and my mum is coming down to visit. Apart from shopping for bits and bobs for my flat, I want to spend the weekend showing her around north/east London. She’s into gardening and walking – and we always love a bit of tea and cake action.’

The prescription
Islington is perfectly placed for exploring one of north London’s tucked-away walking routes, the Regent’s Canal. Join it at the bottom of Duncan Street just off the main drag of Upper Street, and you’ll discover a pleasant path secluded from the hubbub of surrounding areas. Follow the canal all the way to Kingsland Road Bridge, passing locks and houseboats along the way, and emerge conveniently for the Geffrye Museum, which recreates middle-class living rooms from various eras. By now you’ll be keen for a cuppa and a sit-down, so head to the museum café overlooking the period gardens before visiting the galleries.

Then head to Columbia Road Flower Market, open every Sunday.The best time to go is between 1pm and 2pm when traders are packing up and selling plants off cheaply. The market is surrounded by shops flogging gardening gear and homewares; try Treacle at No 110 for retro crockery and pretty cupcakes. Feature continues

Another option for a stroll is mellow, villagey Stoke Newington. Use Church Street as the backbone for a walk taking in Clissold Park (with deer enclosure, aviary and butterfly tunnel) and, at the other end and less well-known, Abney Park Cemetery. It’s now a local nature reserve, home to woodland flora, butterflies and birds. When the kettle calls, step into the ’50s-style Tea Rooms at 155 Church Street for homemade scones with clotted cream – the icing on the cake for a memorable Mother’s Day.

Do you agree? Post your suggestions for Nikki's day out.

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