After a few days in the centre of London it may well be time for some fresh air. Being one of the best cities for parkland in the world, there is a fine selection of charming green spaces that can offer some respite, but a visit to Hampstead Heath will be one for a true escape.

The thick forests and overgrown meadows of ‘the Heath’ – as it is more commonly referred by the locals – are not something you would normally associate with a trip to the capital, and when you find yourself in the middle of this 790-acre wilderness, all the high-paced congestion of the city streets will seem a million miles away.

As well as a wealth of lakes, ponds and charming architecture (Kenwood house being the big attraction in that department) no visit would be complete without a walk to the top of Parliament Hill. A steep climb it may be for some, once you approach the gap in the trees you will be met by probably the most enchanting view of the city. It is at this point that many people fall in love with London.

If someone was to ask you what they sell in Camden Market, ‘everything’ would probably the first word that springs to mind. This famous and vibrant shopping haven is an attraction that should be on the top on anyone’s list when visiting London. From silver neon club wear to homemade cheese and handicrafts, the old horses’ stables in Camden Town have been transformed into an extremely popular market, offering something for everyone.

What’s more is that Camden market is a perfect contrast to the high-priced melee of the West End and anyone on the lookout for some retro threads, extreme gothic wear or (especially) funky headwear you can find some unbelievable bargains. Adding to the list are a number of nick-knack stores and bookshops close to the canal, with Black Gull Books boasting an eclectic range to rival any of its high-street counterparts.

Food stalls, with cuisine from the four corners of the world, will keep going, but be prepared for some seriously large crowds, particularly at the weekends. If you want some elbow room, your best bet is to squeeze in a mid-week morning visit, when you can have the whole place to yourself.

After a few hectic hours of shopping in the West End of London, you could well be in need of a time out. If you find yourself stranded in the middle of the high street with nowhere to turn, take a little walk down the cobble stones of Covent Garden and you will come across the hidden sanctuary of Neal’s Yard – a true oasis in the retail insanity.

The range of charming coffee shops and restaurants here provide an array of choice for a perfect mid-afternoon snack and also serve up more substantial dishes if you have built up an appetite. A more ethical coffee break can be had at the World Food Cafe and definitely not to be missed for a quick treat is the delectable carrot muffin from the Neal’s Yard Salad Bar.

Although problems may arise from spending too much time relaxing in the colourful surroundings of this safe haven rather than facing another battle on the high street, the area surrounding the yard features a number of charming boutiques selling everything from antiques, handicrafts and homemade goods that will no doubt help ease you back into the action.

It is surprising to think that the Catacombs of Paris have been left off the majority of tourist maps for the city, but they are easily one of the most captivating attractions of all that are on offer. Although you might find the queue can have a longer wait time than the Louvre (and it certainly did on the day I visited), this is due to the fact that only a handful of people are allowed enter at a time.

At the end of the 18th Century, Paris was overcome by disease caused by the large number of bodies in the city’s cemeteries. It was up to the churches to solve the problem and what they decided to do was truly unique. Taking the long winding staircase deep under the streets of Montparnasse, dimly-lit tunnels lead you through a maze of skulls and bones – each row of remains meticulously arranged as a sign of respect for the dead – and there are also some astounding crypts and altars where masses were held deep underground.

This vast burial chamber covers nearly two kilometres and you may be glad to be on your way out by the time you reach the exit. Although what has been a somewhat eerie experience will be undoubtedly one of the most memorable of your trip to Paris.