A walk in the park at Goodmayes
Goodmayes is in Ilford, east London, to the north of Barking and Dagenham. Rich in leafy parks, it's a breath of fresh air away from London's bustling centre yet still offers easy access to the capital via the convenient over ground train service. Divided into two sections, head to Goodmayes Park for a stroll in the sensory garden while young ones burn off energy at the play area, parkour obstacle hub and trim trail. There are tennis courts too. Valentine's Mansion & Gardens in Ilford are free to enter and kids will love the Victorian dressing up and mini kitchen range. For something distinctly British, visit Nearby Coral Romford Greyhound Stadium to watch the incredible hounds whizz by.
Train for a gold medal at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park at Stratford is an exciting legacy from London's 2012 Olympic Games, and easy to get to by train or car. Take a boat tour round the park, see where medals were won and records broken, try out a sport yourself and take an adrenaline-fuelled ride down the ArcelorMittal Orbit - so much more than just a slide.
Hop on the train to London
Catch an overland train from Goodmayes station and you can be in London Liverpool Street in under 25 minutes. From there you have an easy walk from The Barbican Centre, St Paul's Cathedral, shopping at Leadenhall Market and One New Change, plus lots of great restaurants. Looking for a cheap hotel Near Goodmayes? Travelodge London Ilford Hotel's your Nearest bet or try Travelodge London Ilford Gants Hill Hotel.