The Hemmes family's decision to breathe life into dowdy Bridge Lane in the city (see above) isn't the only move to boost the neighbourhood's food stocks.

There's something interesting happening. In backyards from Seattle to Sydney, people are getting their hands dirty and rediscovering the joy of growing their own food. Edible community gardens are popping up everywhere, from tower blocks in London to skid-row areas in Los Angeles and affluent North Shore neighbourhoods. Top chefs..read more

Boston charms with a human scale all too lacking in other big American cities. Its picturesque centre and distinct neighbourhoods are a walker's nirvana.

Close to town but foreign sounding, quaintly named neighbourhoods are the latest status symbol, reports Lucy Beaumont.

Thoughtful homes and neighbourhoods can improve our wellbeing, writes Julie Robotham.