The buzzing theatre district, dramatic bridges arching over the Thames, ancient buildings and famous monuments. These are just a few of the features that define London. And so do its 3000 parks, gardens and green spaces.
Amongst the sprawling city, are the parks of London that punctuate the concrete with stunning green spaces.
London is a green city and a visit to its parks is not only a fantastic free thing to do, but it is also a right of passage for any visitor to the city. From elegant gardens, ornate landmarks, historical sites and tons of fun activities, London’s parks have it all.
How does one choose which park to visit, with such an overwhelming amount of gorgeous options? Within the numerous green spaces, there are some clear favourites, each offering something unique and special.
Check out the best parks in London, add some to your bucket list, and find out what makes this city and its parks so remarkable.
9 beautiful parks & green areas in London
There are so many beautiful green spaces to escape to in London. Ones that make you forget that you’re in a buzzing metropolis. This is not one of them.
The best thing about Primrose Hill is that it’s a stunning and lush place to hang out, yet it has amazing views of the central London skyline. It’s a perfect clash of city and tranquillity.
It is a particularly popular place in North London for a sunset picnic, perched upon the hill admiring the amazing city. The park also features an outdoor gym and playground as well as a number of trails to head off on a walk, run or cycle.
I personally love this green space in London for a tranquil walk or a meet-up with friends.
If you can manage an early wake-up during summer, it is a prime spot to watch the sunrise with a scrumptious breakfast picnic and fresh coffee from a nearby cafe.
This is one of the most famous parks in London and it is packed with stunning spaces to hang out and a ton of attractions. It is the pride of south Londoners, and why wouldn’t it be?
With a gorgeous riverside promenade, the Battersea’s Children’s Zoo, a Peace Pagoda and just so much more going on!
On warm summer days, you can take a boat out for a paddle on the lake, or spend hours exploring. You’ll walk past many grand fountains and find quiet spots to laze around in one of the gardens.
The park also features a winter garden and an art gallery, The Pump House. So you can spend a frosty day enjoying the park, too. There’s also a minigolf court for those looking for a fun date idea!
This is the biggest park in London and truly magical all year round. Arguably even more so in the colder months when the mist hangs over the Autumn colours. Hundreds of red and fallow deer roam freely among ancient trees and wildflowers.
The expansive green area is a whimsical escape from the city that will make you feel as if you’re in the remote countryside. Due to its size, you can spend the entire day cycling, walking and picnicking in the park surrounded by wildlife and birds.
Snap some aesthetic shots at the Isabella Plantation with Japanese azaleas as your background. Or walk up to the highest point and admire the spectacular view featuring St Paul’s Cathedral over 12 miles away.
Leave the manicured lawns and picture-perfect flower beds behind in favour of exploring the wildest London park. With over 320 hectares of woodland, undulating green hills and stunning clearings, it’s no wonder it’s so popular.
It’s a favourite park in London for nature enthusiasts and runners, with beautiful tracks winding through the hills.
In the summer, Londoners flock to the swimming ponds for a dip in the icy waters or a stroll hand-in-hand with loved ones through the romantic Pergola and Hill Gardens.
Here you will also find Parliament Hill, one of the highest viewpoints in the city. Climb to the top for panoramic views and keep your eyes peeled for resident muntjac deer and bright green parakeets.
This is a lovely and unassuming park in north London that hosts an array of events and activities including a weekly farmers market that draws crowds.
It’s one of the local hidden gems in London, with Londoners affectionately calling this green space ‘Ally Pally’, and it’s always buzzing with activity.
Simply sitting atop the hill with some snacks overlooking one of the most impressive views of London is pleasure enough.
But if you feel like something a little active, there is tons to do. Jump in a pedalo and enjoy the lake or head over the Go Ape adventure area.
Alexandra park may not be the largest park in London, but it is one of the most loved by locals and it’s jam-packed with all the makings of a great day out. I recommend this park to get a feeling of local life on the outskirts of the well-known London areas.
This famous park in London also holds the honour of being the oldest Royal Park. For a spot of novelty on your trip to England’s capital city, head over to Greenwich to stand on the Prime Meridian Line.
That’s not all the park has to offer though. It’s a massive 183 acre enclosed green space in the middle of South East London that acts as a sanctuary for a range of wildlife.
Much-loved for its gorgeous outdoor areas, the highlight of Greenwich park is actually the Greenwich Maritime World Heritage Site, the location of the National Maritime Museum and Old Royal Naval College.
Greenwich Park isn’t only one of the most beautiful and popular green spaces in London, it’s also one of the most iconic landmarks in London. Here you’re guaranteed to snap some Instagram-worthy London shots.
Spending a day in this historical area gives visitors a different perspective of London and insight into its history. And the surrounding park is a wonderland, with charming gardens and the heady scent of fruit wafting up from the Queen’s orchard.
Probably the most famous of London’s parks, Hyde Park is synonymous with the sprawling city, almost a symbol for many visitors and locals. It’s central, it’s huge, and it’s full of quirky features and sights.
Among the thousands of trees and green spaces, you’ll find London’s oldest boating lake, The Serpentine, as well as a Victorian pet cemetery.
Famous events take place at the Speaker’s Corner and in summer it is alive with open-air concerts. With so much going on, it is no wonder that Hyde Park is at the top of most people’s London itinerary.
In December it’s also home to Winter Wonderland, a huge Christmas market and fair.
Visiting Hyde Park and Winter Wonderland is one of the best things to do in London at Christmas. Here you will find some of the most amazing Christmas lights in London.
Similar to Hyde Park, no list of London parks and gardens would be complete without a mention of Kensington Gardens.
Officially separate to Hyde Park but considered by most to by an extension, the gardens surround the impressive Kensington Palace and are as pretty as a picture.
It features beautifully sculpted gardens and a number of interesting monuments such as the Diana Memorial playground. Why not enjoy a spot of high tea at Kensington Palace while you’re there?
This is one of the most popular parks in London, England, and is certainly one of the most beautiful places in London. It encompasses the aforementioned Primrose Hill, tall trees, lakes and enchanting gardens.
Aside from its quintessential English feel, it has an eclectic touch with features such as the Japanese Garden Island.
It is a hive of activity with a long list of things to do. With the largest outdoor sports area in London, you can always expect to see a lively game of football or cricket and a number of spots to stop off for an ice-cream or a bite to eat.
The park is also home to the magical Open Air Theatre, a favourite summer activity showcasing award-winning theatre. Regent’s Park offers visitors a little bit of everything and is the perfect place to enjoy the charms of London.
Although not your typical green space in London, the Royal Botanic Gardens are simply too breathtaking not to mention.
Boasting the world’s largest and most diverse botanical and mycological collection, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is a place to discover the wonders of the plant kingdom. It is also astoundingly beautiful.
Set aside an entire day to explore the gardens, you’ll need it. Let your inner child out on the 59 ft Treetop Walkway as you take in the views from the sky.
Step into an exotic rainforest in the Palm House glasshouse and then try to name a few of the 60 000 plants along the Great Broad Walk Borders.
A visit to Kew Gardens will leave you awed and it is no wonder that it is a national pride and prestigious botanical garden.
Whether you plan a visit to one of these parks, or just happen upon one while walking through London, you’ll love discovering these exceptional gardens and green spaces.
Keep a lookout for exciting events, especially during the summer, so you can experience a slice of local life and infectious energy.
Go in search of the hidden gems tucked away in the pretty parks, or simply seek out a corner to picnic in the beautiful surroundings. A visit to the city is not complete without stopping by one of the best parks in London.
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, without having to take a train or drive for hours outside London, these urban green spaces are perfect for you. Take a break from the city life with these gorgeous gardens and parks in London!
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