My day out in Hornchurch - a first time visitor's guide

On a sunny April day with barely a cloud in the sky, I headed to Hornchurch for the first time.

After getting the District line to Hornchurch station, I was immediately hit with a pleasant buzz of life down Station Lane.

I instantly took note of Little Olive - an attractive-looking cafe situated conveniently right next to the station.

Little Olive sits next to Hornchurch station (Image: Alpay Nafioglu)

It had several customers sat outside soaking in the sun whilst enjoying various breakfasts and coffees.

I had a feeling I'd be returning there for a spot of lunch - and I did.

I then headed to High Street to assess Hornchurch's shopping options, and I wasn't disappointed.

High Street was very active with lots of people of all different ages popping in and out of shops, restaurants and fast food chains.

Whilst some people may not care for fast food options, I have to say I was impressed by the variety in the High Street including familiar names like Pepe's and lesser-spotted chains like Wimpy.

Hornchurch High Street (Image: Gianni Cirillo)

There was also a great selection of independent businesses such as restaurant The Aviary and estate agents Lux Homes run by local couple Aislinn Murphy and Alex Glover.

Like most other high streets, Hornchurch did also have a few vacant and permanent closed units.

Admittedly I was disappointed to see that Darts Knight was closed for the day.

As a new-found darts enthusiast, a visit there was firmly on my wish-list.

After working up an appetite I headed back towards Little Olive where I thoroughly enjoyed a chicken caesar salad and a mixed berry smoothie.

Lunch at Little Olive (Image: Gianni Cirillo)

The very hospitable cafe manager Alpay Nafioglu also brought me a chicken, pesto and sun-dried tomato sandwich - which he said was one of the most popular dishes here.

Lunch was delicious and only supplemented by the kindness of Alpay and his team.

With the sun still shining and my stomach now full, I headed towards Hornchurch Country Park which I understood to be ladened with war history.

After soaking in some of the RAF history at the visitor and information centre, I took the trail labelled Albyns Farm & Lake.

It was a very peaceful trip with only a few dog walkers and joggers for company but it was a welcome break from the hustle and bustle synonymous with London.

A lake at Hornchurch Country Park (Image: Gianni Cirillo)

I particularly appreciated the regular wooden posts with the various trail names signposted on arrows, reassuring me that I was still on the right path.

I came across a large fishing lake with a huge population of ducks bobbing on the water and basking in the sun so I decided to find a bench, take a breather and enjoy the scenery.

After doubling back on myself and heading out of the park, I had one final stop in mind - Langtons Gardens, believed to be designed by famous landscaper Humphrey Repton.

Langtons Gardens (Image: Gianni Cirillo)

Similar to the country park, Langtons was serene, quiet and the history of the site was almost palpable.

Again, ducks and swans were dotted around the grass and the small pond, quacking in front of the backdrop of the stunning manor house.

I felt I had seen Hornchurch well - appreciating local businesses, a busy and well-stocked High Street, gorgeous greenery and sites of serious history and cultural significance.