Gemma Capocci

Wanstead isn't exactly the first place you'd think of for a night out, but previously tipped in The Sunday Times as one of the top 10 best places to live in Great Britain, you'd be pleasantly surprised. Sandwiched between Leytonstone and Snaresbrook near the end of the Central line, it's villagey vibe and leafy green spaces is popular with the buggy brigade - and at this time of year, the east London suburb's popular pubs and restaurants are perfect for all sorts of celebrations. If you're ever in the neighbourhood, here's five great places to go:  The Manor House, High Street E11 2RL  With a more formal restaurant upstairs, and a tasty bar menu, this is where you go to raise a glass over a lovely dinner before getting boozy at the bar. There is plenty of space downstairs filled with comfy sofas and tables and chairs, and a large outdoor seating area out front. If live music is your thing, you can check out upbeat sets from 7pm on Thursdays or live acoustic sessions each Sunday from 6pm. The Duke, 79 Nightingale Lane, E11 2EY Not far from the main high street, The Duke is an all-rounder and is guaranteed to give you a good night out. With some great offers, including Prosecco spritzers for just a fiver all day Thursday and Friday, they also host some excellent weekly events for adults and kids alike including steak night and Saturday brunch. Luppolo Pizzeria Luppolo, High Street, E11 2RJ This pizzeria is a relatively new and very welcome addition to the neighbourhood. This

If your terrifying toddler isn’t quite old enough to hit the streets for trick-or-treating, you can still get involved in some spooky fun that won’t give your mini monster nightmares. Check out these eerie Halloween events for the under-fives: Mothercare Edmonton's Trick or Treat Fancy Dress Party, Saturday October 24 This Mothercare store in north London is hosting a special spooky play session with all profits going to children’s hospice Haven House. Kids can expect singing, dancing, face-painting and party games as well as the usual soft play fun. Mothercare Edmonton, N18 3HA; Tickets £3 per child. Spooky Stories: Teeny-Tiny and the Witch-Woman, Thursday October 29 Professional storyteller Helen Tozer will captivate your kids with the well-loved tale of Teeny-Tiny and his brothers, who find shelter in a cosy but unusual cottage deep in the forest. The spooky storytelling is followed by some delightfully frightful outdoor activities. Recommended for 4+, wet weather wear gear is advised. The Soanes Centre, Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, E3 4PX. Tickets £4 per child, extra siblings £2 (siblings under four free). The Little Disco Company's Halloween Pop-Up Disco, Friday October 30 Put your tiny tot in the spookiest outfit and bop the hours away, Halloween style. Competitions, games, bubbles and fireworks are also included. The Ivy House pub, Nunhead. Tickets are £1 per adult, £6 per child. Extra siblings £4. Little Folk with Albo Halloween Special, Saturday October 31 American s