Hackney

Make way for Hackney, because its coming up. This is London's up and coming borough and its hosting the 2012 Olympics to prove it. Long considered a poor area, Hackney was virtually neglected for years. Its undesirable status and an influx of immigrants saw London turn its back. But close proximity to the financial district and some of the cheapest land prices in London have seen a gradual regeneration and Hackney has become trendy.

The suburb is also privy to some of the biggest parks in the city. Take Hackney Marshes – the world famous home of grass roots football or Victoria Park, both a wonderful break from the grime of the streets. Victoria Park was envisioned as a Regent's Park for the East End in 1842 and it is claimed to be the first truly public park in Britain. In the summer there are events and concerts and there is now a children's playground. The canal also runs alongside and can be explored in both directions.