Are you lucky enough to have a stopover in London? Just 24 hours can be enough to get a real feel for the place and realise that you definitely want to return some day. As long as you're prepared to walk long distances, you can cover more ground than you'd think in just a short time in London.

Central Attractions

Many of London's major attractions are located very centrally and are within walking or cycling distance of each other. Yes, one way of seeing more of the city is by hopping on the blue rental bikes affectionately referred to as 'Boris Bikes' by Londoners. The scheme works on a pay per hour basis, and bikes can be picked up and left at different pay stations scattered throughout the city.

A great route to take is the riverside path that runs alongside the Thames. By walking on either side of the river you can take in sights such as the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, the London Eye, the Tate Modern, St Paul's Cathedral, the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. Stop off for a bite to eat along the way at the wonderful Borough Market where you can get some of the freshest local and international produce from cheese to full blown meals.

Other sights to include in a walking or cycling tour of central London are Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Street, Covent Garden and Buckingham Palace.

Slightly Outside the Centre

In many cases it could be more practical to stick to visiting the outskirts of London. These areas can be closer to airports, and can provide a more genuine impression of London as you're more likely to spend time in areas populated by locals and small businesses.

Kew and Richmond are on the right side of town for anyone travelling to and from Heathrow Airport and Gatwick Airport. Kew Gardens are a world famous botanical gardens with a walkway among the trees, and lovely tea rooms for a spot of traditional British afternoon tea. Richmond Park is a sprawling parkland area with deer and other living creatures grazing among the many trees. The park boasts wonderful views across central London.

Those travelling to and from Stansted Airport can stick to the north of the city to save time. The area of Camden is well worth discovering, and is home to one of London's most popular markets with stalls selling anything from giant donuts to henna tatoos to hemp cloth clothing. It's also a good destination for anyone looking to get an affordable meal in the expensive city.

If you choose to venture into the city, check into a Tower of London hotel that is near underground and national rail stations to get you where you need to be on time. Alternatively, stay at an airport hotel but these tend to be loud and less comfortable.