The Bridge, Shoreham, Kent

In the Kent Downs, the historic village of Shoreham is home to a dozen of so listed buildings, including the nineteenth century bridge, which has three low brick arches with stone buttressing and solid balustrade of red brick and flint rubble. On nearby Darenth Way, the Grade II-listed Waterhouse was built during the reign of Queen Anne (1702-1714).  About a century later, the painter Samuel Palmer stayed here, before the present grand Georgian facade was added. It must be one of Shoreham's grandest houses.

The Cinnamon Cafe, Windsor, Berkshire

 

Justifiably popular with London cyclists doing the so-called Cinnamon Bun Run, the Cinnamon Cafe is one of several coffee shops sheltered inside the old ticket hall of Windsor's former station. Generously large, the pastries and cakes are just want you need to fuel the ride back to the Big Smoke. There are also loads of tables and bike racks.

Venn Street, Clapham, South London

 

A little taste of cafe society in south London, pedestrianised Venn Street is home to Clapham Picture House, live music bar Venn Street Records and a handful of cafes and restaurants. In the summer, leafy foliage and outdoor tables add to the appeal.

Cycling through Cudham, South of London

Although it is not far from London's suburban sprawl, Cudham feels like it belongs much deeper in the Kent countryside. As you cycle along Cudham Lane South, you'll pass converted oast houses, built from local flint, and the whitewashed Blacksmith's Arms, which dates from the 17th century.

Chiddingstone, Kent

 

Nestled in the High Weald, Chiddingstone is a well-preserved example of a Tudor one-street village. The National Trust, which bought most of Chiddingstone in 1939, says the village is very typical of the Kent style, with half-timbered sides, gables and stone-hung red-tiled roofs.  Chiddingstone still has its own post office, in a building that dates from 1453, its own pub (the Castle Inn) with lead-paned windows, as well as an inviting tea room in a courtyard. There is also an attractive fourteenth century church and even a mock Medieval castle, which sadly isn't visible from the high street. Chiddingstone, which is reputed to be named after a nearby sandstone outcrop, is surrounded by open rolling Kent countryside, which offers pleasant walking with sweeping views.

Brockwell Hall, Brockwell Park, South London

The freshly-restored Brockwell Hall brings a glimpse of Georgian grandeur to Brixton's biggest park.

Brixton Street Vibes, South London

 

Atlantic Road, Brixton

Arundel, Sussex

On the southern edge of the South Downs National Park, the ancient town of Arundel overlooks the marshes and wetlands that surround the river Arun. The 1,000-year old seat of the Dukes of Norfok, Arundel Castle looms high above this atmospheric town and port.  Although much of it has been rebuilt over the centuries, the castle, which contains 40 acres of grounds and gardens, dates back to 1068.

Next to the castle, is the Parish Church of St. Nicholas, built in 1380, while further down the high street is a Georgian coaching inn, The Norfolk Arms, built by the 10th Duke of Norfolk. Upholding an 18th century tradition, the Arundel Society for the Prosecution of Thieves and Felons still holds its annual dinner at this hotel.

Arundel's striking cathedral, which also sits high on a hillside, was built as a church by the 15th Duke of Norfolk, Earl Marshal, between 1868 and 1873 in French Gothic style.  It was re-designated as a cathedral in 1965. It celebrates the feast of Corpus Christi – the Body and Blood of Christ, 60 days after Easter. A  carpet of flowers is laid out a few days before the Mass and a procession of the Blessed Sacrament to Arundel Castle.