Walthamstow Central Library

The main library in Walthamstow pulls you in with its modern glass frontage, a stark contrast to the Victorian terraces surrounding it. Inside, it's all soaring ceilings and natural light - proper impressive for a public building. You've got the full works here: thousands of books across multiple floors, computers, study spaces, and a decent selection of children's materials if you're travelling with kids.

This is mainly a working library rather than a tourist attraction, but it's worth a stop if you're staying nearby or passing through. Local history buffs might find something useful in the archives, and anyone needing to catch up on work or spend an hour out of the rain won't be disappointed. The building itself is worth a look - it won the Stirling Prize back in 2010.

It's free to enter and browse, though you'll need a library card to borrow books. Allow an hour if you're just having a casual look around. Walthamstow High Street has enough cafes and shops to stretch a visit into a half-day.

If you're based at Lee Valley Camping and Caravan Park in Edmonton or the slightly better-reviewed Lee Valley Campsite near Sewardstone, this is a useful indoor backup plan on rainy days rather than a main event. The area's honestly more about green spaces and the Lee Valley Park system than traditional attractions.