In an extract from their new book, and suggest 10 of the best day trips within an hour of London

thatched roof. A tiny railway is dwarfed by shrubs that line the track; another l a r ge r r a i l way t r a ns por t s v i s i t o r s around the village’s perimeter. ke e nly pr i c e d loc al s e a f o o d . The Cappuccino Café and Bakery has a name that requires no further description, save that both aspects are excellent. Atelier Gallery displays an interesting mix of mid- centur y furniture at fair prices and exhibitions of painting, sculpture and printmaking.

Trains run from Fenchurch Street to Leigh-on-Sea (40 minutes). Guided tours of this 22ft network of ma n ma d e tunnels a re e n j oy a b ly amateurish, making fun theatre of the dank and dark environment . The emphasis is on supernatural speculation, but the Caves’ real history — wartime refuge, rock’n’roll venue in the 1960s and ’70s, and a chalk and flint mine from at least the 13th century — is every bit as fascinating. The tunnels are quite spacious, but claustrophobics may wish to give it a miss. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Trains run from St Pancras to Bedford (35 minutes), a 20-minute walk away. These substantial ancient commons are home to a variet y of wildlif e, including the rare Purple Emperor butterfly. There are trails for walkers and cyclists that take into account differing energy levels, guiding the visitor through marshes, woodland, glades and past ponds.

Trains run from Waterloo to Bookham (50 minutes). If the hunt gives you as much pleasure as the catch, head to this village, which has around 80 dealers in antiques and collectables. With so much to look at, the promise of treasure is always there and perseverance — plus a bit of luck — usually pays off. The mid-20th century is best represented, with furniture, clothes, records and homewares, but you’ll find older items too. On Sundays, the small motorbike museum is well worth the £1 admission fee.