Guide to the Metropolitan line

Initially built in the 16th century, The Hoop & Grapes survived the Great Fire, which stopped burning a mere 50 yards away. Step inside this Grade II listed pub to enjoy a range of drinks and classic pub grub in a traditional setting. Expect hearty choices like suet pudding and a prize-winning steak and ale pie.

Anyone passionate about Italian cuisine will enjoy a trip to Eataly, located next to Liverpool Street station. This vast food hall is London's Italian hotspot, combining eateries with an extensive range of retailers. Savour a meal here, buy ingredients and treats to take home, or join an event like a cooking class or wine tasting.

Grab some casual Vietnamese food near Moorgate at Banh Mi Keu Deli. This contemporary eatery is modern and sleek, serving tasty Vietnamese dishes for lunch and dinner. Get one of the crusty banh mi baguettes that give the place its name or choose noodles, rice, and smaller snacks at this light and airy spot.

Based near Barbican station, Apulia is a cosy restaurant serving regional Italian cuisine from Puglia. Italian favourites like bruschetta, pasta, risotto, and pizza with red or white sauce are available here. Complete a meal with a cocktail or Italian wine. Food is served in a bustling contemporary dining room.

Savour a cocktail in peaceful surroundings at The Gunmakers. This bar sits on a quiet lane near Farringdon station and combines all the familiar comforts of a pub with vibrant cocktails and Mexican cuisine. There's a heated and covered garden too. Drop by after work or come in for lunch.

Alight at King's Cross St Pancras to check out a rather unusual London sight, The Hardy Tree. A little piece of London history, this unique tree is surrounded by gravestones. They were moved here to make way for the growing railway network by Thomas Hardy before he became a literary great.

Bloomsbury Theatre & Studio has been open since 1968 and is part of University College London. A wide range of performances are on-stage here, including discussions, comedy, theatre, music, and dance. Diverse acts like Stomp, Adele, and Jo Brand have performed at this Brutalist landmark. This theatre also has on-site bars.

Vibrant pub The Albany has a rich blue exterior with gold touches. Inside, it's comfortable, with plenty of light streaming in. Drop in for a drink, with plenty to choose from, or enjoy the sophisticated pub grub menu, including a Sunday roast. Events like quizzes, music, and comedy are on here too.

Opened in 1990, The Sherlock Holmes Museum is housed in the fictional detective's home, 221B Baker Street. Here you can immerse yourself in Holmes' casebook – the museum features a vast array of exhibits, and when you visit the gift shop, you'll find the most extensive collection of Sherlock Holmes memorabilia in the world.

You can visit the final home of Sigmund Freud, which is now the Freud Museum London. The museum works to promote the legacy of Freud and his daughter. You can see the well-maintained garden, view Freud's untouched study, and see exhibitions related to his work. The museum also hosts a busy programme of events.

There's plenty to keep you occupied at Boxpark Wembley, near Wembley Park station. Based in converted shipping containers, there are diverse dining options here, lots of shops to explore, and a dedicated space for events and activities. You can expect comedy, live music, and fun things to do, like VR gaming.

The Doll's House on the Hill serves breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea in a cute vintage-themed café. Pavement tables are available as well as indoor seats. Light and simple dishes like baked potatoes, salads, and sandwiches are served. Afternoon tea is a popular choice and there are inclusive versions here like vegan or gluten-free teas.

In Ruislip you can visit award-winning local eatery Ora Brasserie. This popular restaurant has a romantic atmosphere and a rustic look. A curated menu of European brasserie favourites is on offer here like grilled vegetables with goat's cheese and minute steak. A roast is also served on Sundays.

Eat vibrant Asian dishes and snacks in Uxbridge at Ottimmo Bao Bao. This comfortable café has an easygoing atmosphere and is best known for its bao buns loaded with exciting ingredients. Other small plates, rice and noodle bowls, tempting desserts, and fruity mocktails are available too. Dine in or get a takeaway. 

Travel to North Harrow for Indian cuisine that's totally vegetarian and vegan. This restaurant serves food from the temple city of Udupi, with a menu that features thali meals, curries, masala dosa, and lentil pizzas. The wine and other drinks here are also veggie-friendly. The restaurant space is contemporary and atmospheric.

Check out 18 holes of golf on a parkland course at Northwood Golf Club. Established in 1891, this place remains one of the area's most popular golf clubs. The challenging course will test every skill level. There's also a clubhouse with a dining area and a laid-back terrace with views of the course.