The 'perfect' day out in Romford: Shopping and green spaces

At the start of July, I treated myself to a full day out in Romford town centre, finding the best places to shop and the prettiest green spaces to soak up the (very tiny bit of) sun.

Parking up at the Liberty Shopping Centre in the morning, I hit the shops, ready to make the most of the sales with some big brand names: think H&M, Lush and New Look.

But I wanted to find out Romford shoppers' go-to stores, so I stopped some residents to get their thoughts.

After a slow start I found some gems at Romford Market (Image: Charlotte Anderson)

But the first shopper I met simply said "there's not much here". Oh.

Undeterred, I headed from the Liberty out to Romford Market in search of some real, local gems.

I was not disappointed - within the first few stalls I found some literal gems at the Crystal Cabinet gazebo.

Michelle Petty introduced me to the 34 independent businesses in Romford Shopping Hall (Image: Michelle Petty)

I picked up some Rose Quartz, which supposedly helps to protect against negativity and environmental pollution - perfect for the rest of my day in Romford.

Catching my eye from Market Place was Romford Shopping Hall, with its bright red front and England flags decorating the pillars. 

After a little explore, it soon became clear that this was a vibrant part of the Romford retail scene.

A treasure trove of retail therapy (Image: Charlotte Anderson)

Owner Michelle Petty explained that the shopping hall is more than 90 years old and home to 34 family-run independent businesses.

She introduced me to some of the business owners, such as Andy Brace from Worldwide Signings, and I browsed the varied shops.

My personal favourites were Alpha Book Company - where you can get pre-loved books for a fraction of their normal price - and Italian vintage shop Modernariato, owned by the lovely Isabella Pino.

A proper Romford elevenses (Image: Charlotte Anderson)

After all this shopping, I stopped for a much-needed break at the 'best of British' Tea Pot Cafe.

Nominated as one of 'Your Favourite' cafes, Tea Pot Cafe has Royal and Only Fools and Horses-themed menu items.

Although I was half-tempted by the Del Boy I went for a gorgeous slice of apple pie - recommended by a regular.

A stroll in Raphael Park was a great way to spend the afternoon (Image: Charlotte Anderson)

By this point, most of the clouds that had covered the sun in the morning had cleared so it was time for a stroll in the park. 

Raphael Park and Black's Canal sparkled in the sun, and I could see how it had earned its Green Flag Award. 

Now was also my time to spot some wildlife - both real and wooden. 

CREM Kitchen had fantastic views of the fountain (Image: Charlotte Anderson)

While the real geese and ducks ate their bread, wooden squirrel and badger carvings watched over the park.

After a walk round the park, I finished my day with a salad, pitta bread with houmous and a Virgin Mojito (I had to drive home) at CREM kitchen, overlooking the fountain of Black's Canal.

The geese bid me goodbye as I left (Image: Charlotte Anderson)

The restaurant has a focus on working with ethical suppliers and supporting small businesses - a perfect way to finish off my day of 'shopping local' in Romford.