One of the crown jewels of the London lifestyle is the sheer volume of parks at one’s disposal. All of the best parks in London are frequently visited by locals and visitors – they’re part of the London lifestyle.
Exploring the park life in London is particularly popular in light of COVID-19 – fresh air, outdoor spaces and an opportunity to stretch your legs.
Best parks in London
No matter where you are based in London, you’ll never be too far from open green space. North, south, east, west and close-to-central, we take you to our favorites:
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is the most famous of all the parks in London and is a must-visit for all. Hyde park attracts tourists and strollers as much as joggers and swimmers who flock here for their daily exercise session. Hyde park often hosts events, including the Winter Wonderland festival during the Christmas season featuring fun fair rides from around Europe, markets, an ice rink, and numerous bars, restaurants, and cafes. The summer often sees a string of world-class live acts hosting concerts here.
Hyde Park can be reached by five different tube stops including Hyde Park Corner (Piccadily), Knightsbridge (Piccadily), Queensway (Central), Lancaster Gate (Central) and Marble Arch (Central).
Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath is one of the largest parks in London, covering 320 hectares (790 acres). “The Heath,” as it is known locally, includes one of the highest points in London from Parliament Hill, offering sweeping views of the capital. Those living in London flock here for the embracing ponds, recent and ancient woodlands, a lido, playgrounds, and a training track. It also adjoins the stately home of Kenwood House and its grounds.
Hampstead Heath can be reached at Hampstead (Northern Line).
Clapham Common
Clapham Common is very popular among London expats because of the vibrant social scene that surrounds the park. ‘The Common’ is a great place to go running in the summer and also has facilities like basketball courts and tennis courts. There are a number of bars surrounding the park, and the Windmill is actually situated within the park and is full of young professionals on the weekends, especially in the summer.
Clapham Common can be reached from Clapham Common Tube Station (Northern Line), Clapham South (Northern Line) and is a ten-minute walk away from Clapham Junction (National Rail).
Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park is the oldest of the Royal Parks and offers almost panoramic views of the city. It’s the perfect place to take a break on the weekend, offering a peaceful alternative to Greenwich town. If you’re in need of a cafe/food injection, the park offers three tasteful cafes. While in Greenwich Park, watch out for the small herds of Fallow and Red deer that live in the park.
Greenwich Park can be reached from Cutty Sark (Docklands Light Railway), Maze Hill Railway Station (National Rail) and Greenwich Railway Station (National Rail).
Richmond Park
Richmond Park, another Royal Park, covers more than 2,000 acres with extensive cycle paths, riding stables, two golf courses and power kiting. There are also hundreds of deer that roam the park freely.
Richmond Park can be reached from Richmond Tube Station (District Line), Richond Railway Station (National Rail) and North Sheen Railway Station (National Rail).
And that’s our list of some of the best parks in London. Spending time in the London parks is among the best ways to experience London on the cheap.