London’s luscious parks have something for everyone, whether you’re looking forward to birdwatching in St James's Park, boating in Hyde Park or rollerblading around Kensington Gardens.
When thinking about London, it’s easy to immediately conjure up images of towering high rises and bustling streets. Yet within the city of London and its surrounds are many parks and gardens that offer peaceful escapes from the glittering walls of the city. As perfect in summer for sun-soaked picnics as alluring in winter for revitalising walks, these parks should not be overlooked if you’re planning a stay in the city.
So that you don’t miss out, we’ve picked out some of the best parks in London for you to explore at your own pace, whatever the weather.
Hyde Park
With a 3-mile perimeter and 350 acres of open space, Hyde Park is one of the largest and best-known of London’s parks. Planted with 4,000 trees and featuring two mirror-topped lakes, it’s a magnet for all generations (both two-legged and four) looking to enjoy the fresh air and bucolic setting.
Richmond Park
Richmond Park is the largest of London’s parks and covers an impressive area of 2,500 acres. Not just a haven for people looking to enjoy a tranquil space to amble, but this Royal Park (once a Royal hunting ground) is also home to over 300 red deer and 300 fallow deer. For the best views, go to King Henry's Mound.
Regent's Park
Unfurling across 410 acres, Regent’s Park is another of the best parks in London. With ample to see and do, its attractions include open-air theatre performances, live music festivals, rose gardens, a boating lake, sports courts, food stands and miles of tarmacked paths perfect for walking, jogging and cycling.
St James's Park
Another of London's eight Royal Parks, the 57-acre St James’s Park in Westminster is overlooked by three Royal palaces, including Buckingham Palace. For an exciting twist during your wander, time your walk with the Queen's Life Guard change on Horse Guard Parade or pelican feeding sessions at the eastern end of St James’s Park Lake. Yes, pelicans.
Victoria Park
Make your way to the historic Victoria Park in East London, or "Vicky Park" as locals call it, for a rejuvenating stroll during your city break. With canals and cafés, ponds and pavilions, this 86-acre park is actually London’s oldest public park and is a firm favourite amongst visitors and locals alike.
Greenwich Park
Encompassing 183 acres, Greenwich Park is the oldest enclosed Royal Park in London. Enjoy its 17th Century landscapes, manicured gardens, open fields, resident deer herds and iconic views, including beautiful vistas overlooking the River Thames, St Paul’s Cathedral and beyond.
Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath comprises 790 acres of common land between Hampstead and Highgate. More wild and untamed than many of the other parks in London, the area’s rolling hills, meadows, glades, ponds and woodland provide a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city.
Kensington Gardens
The 265-acre Kensington Gardens park in western central London is one of the most regal of the city’s Royal Parks. All around its immaculately maintained spaces are acknowledgments of its Royal ties, including the much-loved Princess Diana Memorial Garden, the Albert Memorial and the Queen Victoria Statue.
Bushy Park
At more than 1,000 acres in size, the enchanting Bushy Park is the second biggest Royal Park in London. Located in Richmond upon Thames, this park is a favourite for its attractive tree-lined avenues, open parkland, floral gardens, fountains, ponds and beautiful resident herds of red and fallow deer.
Feeling inspired? Take a look at our luxury getaways in London here.
