Merseyheart, I totally agree.

I just got back from London and always felt safe but the question is well worth asking.

Don't underestimate the abilities of London's pickpockets. My husband lost his backpack from under our table in a restaurant near Piccadilly Circus. I still really don't know how they did it - hooked it and slid it out I guess.

I'm glad to hear that Hampstead Heath is safe. I did find their info desk, and they said if that happens again, just shout out. There's a lot of joggers around.

The pickpockets may be your greatest worry in that town. Out from under the table, Heather49? Aaaiieee!

One thing to also keep in mind: in England, at least in the streets, CCTV is everywhere. It's not unlike visiting Las Vegas, with their security cameras. From what I've heard, CCTV has cut down on street crime.

I'm glad to hear that Hampstead Heath is safe. I did find their info desk, and they said if that happens again, just shout out. There's a lot of joggers around.>>>>>>

Those blokes aren't jogging!

I was in a window table having lunch at the Bunch of Grapes on Brompton Road & saw a boy about 8-9 years old talking with his mother outside. He finally came in & started talking to a tourist couple (he had a strong accent) until the publican spotted him & chased him out.

Once at a table next to me, a boy & his friend got away with a cell phone after distracting a couple & the phone's owner chased him down the street but didn't catch him. That was in Sloane Square. So watch your items in those situations.

I was told in both cases it was immigrant children doing it.

Those blokes aren't jogging!

I'm told that it is called horizontal jogging.

My suggestions for good wandering areas are Marylebone High St (especially foody), Upper St in Islington, Soho (you will find good tea opportunities on Old Compton St), Greenwich and the South Bank. You seriously shouldn't worry about walking around by yourself during daylight hours anywhere in central London.

Here's a link to a Hampstead Heath Circular Walk:
http://www.innerlondonramblers.org.u...ead-heath.html

I didn't do this exact walk but enjoyed a similar one. I can also second their recommendation to visit the Holly Bush pub in Hampstead.
http://fancyapint.com/pubs/pub1308.html

If you want to randomly wander around London, you must include the markets in your wanderings. Borough Market is one of my favourites and is located right by the London Bridge tube (closed on Sundays -- the best day is Saturday). While you're there, make sure to wander along the Thames and inside the beautiful Southwark Cathedral.
There are many fun markets to browse in around London and you can find more details on www.londontourist.org/markets

SallyC
Many thanks for posting the flicker link - what wonderful photos and a charming commentary. Made me realize how long it is since I've strolled on Hampstead Heath - will try and get up there next time I am in London

hi, Tralen,

you should be totally safe in Legal london [unless you engage one of our learned friends to represent you of course, in which case you really will need to hang onto your wallet].

I liked Ms. Prism's suggestion, but you could have coffee/lunch at the nice bar/restaurant in Inner Temple [the most easterly of the 4 inns of court] and have a look in temple church - it used to be deserted before that other Mr. Brown mentioned it. you could also wander round the garden at lunch time, when they open the gates.

Also walking from Oxford circus through soho, via Brewer street market to Covent Garden is very interesting - see if you can find London's very own bridge of sighs in golden square - and pretty safe too.

loads to do, everywhere you go.

regards, ann

another vote for London Walking Tours...I really enjoyed their tour of Legal London .They have lots of walks-day and night.

Also , Little Venice area...

The next time I am in London I must visit that Coffee and Tea Museum. What a great city...

I'm surprised no one has mentioned Spitalfield Market and Brick Lane - some great Indian restaurants (not as good as in Streatham but this is more central) and markets.

I noticed a post several weeks ago about where to go in London for free or almost free. Has anyone saved it and will you please post the link.

"I like to eat (more than is good for me) and I'm interested in both good pubs and a place to try afternoon tea."

Forget about it! I lost 5 pounds while in London on vacation. A lot of walking and stairs in the metro stations, but not much in the way of good food! The only thing that kept me going food wise was the sandwiches and food at Mark Spenser and some sandwich shop chain I can't remember the name of - Pret something.

hi, tralen,

something I was reading over the weekend reminded me of Dr. johnsons's house on fleet street [just opposite the Royal courts of Justice- looks medieval, but just another victorian pile, and you are free to go in and have a look round].

regards, ann ((M)) [not sure what this one looks like but here goes]