The suburb of Raynes Park, in the borough of Merton, lies just eight miles from central London. It is one the more bucolic areas in Greater London, and you'll find two significant green spaces just a short distance from the station: Cannon Hill Common, whose 140-year-old woodland offers ample opportunity for walking, cycling, fishing and bird watching; and Prince George's playing field, which hosts regular funfairs and festivals.
Away from the green space, Raynes Park is a pleasant residential area. Although the London & South Western Railway ran through it from 1838, it didn't get a station until 1871 - and even then the plans to develop a garden suburb in the area progressed slowly, only picking up steam in the early 20th century. Today the station is right next to the local shops around Coombe Lane, and offers local commuters great links to London, with trains reaching Waterloo in just 20 minutes.