16 Best Parks in London: Guide to the Capital’s Green Spaces
London offers an incredible collection of parks and green spaces that provide peaceful escapes from city life.
With over 3,000 parks scattered throughout the capital, choosing which ones to visit can feel overwhelming for both visitors and residents alike.
We’ve carefully selected the 16 best parks in London that showcase the city’s diverse outdoor offerings, from grand royal parks to charming local green spaces.
Our guide covers everything from the famous Hyde Park and Richmond Park to lesser-known gems like Burgess Park and Peckham Rye Park.
We’ll also share practical tips for making the most of your park visits and highlight seasonal activities you can enjoy throughout the year.
1) Hyde Park
Hyde Park is London’s largest royal park, covering 350 acres in the heart of the city.
It remains one of the most famous green spaces in the capital.
King Henry VIII established the park in 1536 and it opened to the public in 1637.
The park offers vast open spaces perfect for walking, jogging, and picnicking.
The famous Serpentine Lake attracts visitors for boating and swimming.
Hyde Park hosts major events throughout the year.
Winter Wonderland transforms the park in December, while British Summer Time brings top music acts in summer.
Speaker’s Corner stands out for its history of public speeches and demonstrations since the 1870s.
The park connects directly to Kensington Gardens, creating an even larger green corridor.
Several Underground stations, including Hyde Park Corner and Marble Arch, provide easy access.
Hyde Park serves as London’s green lung.
Its central location makes it a natural meeting point for locals and tourists, offering respite from busy city streets.
2) Regent’s Park
Regent’s Park is one of London’s most famous royal parks.
It covers 410 acres in Northwest London.
The park offers something for everyone in the family.
Large open areas provide plenty of room to play and relax.
Shady trees create cool spots on warm days.
Regent’s Park has London’s largest collection of outdoor sports pitches.
It also hosts Britain’s oldest outdoor theatre.
London Zoo sits within the park grounds and is the world’s oldest scientific zoo.
The park’s history adds to its charm, with stunning Regency architecture and landscaping.
Families will find excellent facilities here.
Playgrounds keep children happy, while cafés offer refreshments.
The park is perfect for picnics too.
Getting to Regent’s Park is easy, with several tube stations nearby, including Regent’s Park, Baker Street, and Great Portland Street.
We recommend visiting during autumn when the leaves turn golden, red, and yellow.
The park transforms into a colourful haven during this season.
3) Richmond Park
Richmond Park is London’s largest Royal Park, covering 2,500 acres.
This massive green space offers much more than a typical city park experience.
The park’s most famous residents are its 600 deer that roam freely across the grounds.
Visitors can spot both red and fallow deer throughout the park, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
Richmond Park features diverse landscapes of ancient woodland and open grassland.
The rolling terrain offers excellent walking and cycling opportunities for all ages.
Pen Ponds provide peaceful water views and wildlife watching.
The Isabella Plantation showcases stunning ornamental gardens with seasonal flowers and carefully designed landscapes.
Richmond Park’s location in southwest London makes it easily accessible yet feels far from city life.
The park’s Royal designation reflects its historical importance and protected status.
Wildlife photography, family picnics, and peaceful escapes are all possible here.
Its vast size means visitors can always find quiet corners, even on busy weekends.
4) St James’s Park
St James’s Park is London’s oldest Royal Park and one of its most beautiful green spaces.
This 57-acre gem sits in the heart of Westminster, surrounded by famous landmarks.
The park opens daily from 5:00 AM to midnight, making it ideal for early morning walks or evening strolls.
Its central location offers easy access for those exploring nearby attractions or seeking a peaceful break.
St James’s Park features beautiful seasonal displays and an impressive collection of birds, including the famous pelicans.
Entry is completely free, as with all Royal Parks.
The park sits at the centre of three royal palaces, giving visitors spectacular views and a strong sense of London’s royal heritage.
Well-maintained paths and a picturesque lake make it ideal for photographers and nature lovers.
St James’s Park provides both quiet moments and a glimpse into London’s history.
5) Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens is one of London’s most impressive botanical destinations.
The Royal Botanic Gardens span over 300 acres in South West London.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses diverse landscapes and plant collections.
Visitors can explore glasshouses, water features, and historic buildings throughout the grounds.
The gardens open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays and until 8:00 PM at weekends.
Entry costs between £20-£22 per person.
We recommend planning at least three hours for a proper visit.
Kew hosts seasonal events throughout the year, from spring flower displays to Christmas light shows.
The gardens include herbaceous bedding areas and specialist plant collections.
Visitors can explore various themed sections across the expansive site.
Kew Gardens is one of only four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in London.
The living collections showcase plants from around the world.
Check opening times before visiting, as they can vary seasonally.
Kew Gardens provides an excellent day out for plant enthusiasts and families.
6) Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park is one of London’s oldest and most historic green spaces.
It sits on a hill overlooking the River Thames, offering spectacular city views.
The park forms part of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site.
This makes it a unique destination among London’s parks.
Panoramic views from the hilltop reveal Canary Wharf and much of central London.
The park features beautiful flower gardens and landscaped areas.
Deer live in an enclosed area within the park.
Greenwich Park caters well to families with a modern playground, tennis courts, picnic areas, and dog walking spaces.
Wheelchair users can access most areas comfortably.
Greenwich Park is perfect for picnics, exercise, and peaceful strolls.
The combination of history, views, and facilities makes it a standout choice among London’s green spaces.
7) Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath stands out as one of London’s wildest and most natural parks.
This 320-hectare space keeps its rugged, untamed character.
The Heath spans North London in the Borough of Camden, stretching between Hampstead, Highgate, and Gospel Oak.
The park sits 322 feet above sea level and offers some of London’s best city views from Parliament Hill.
Swimming ponds make Hampstead Heath unique.
These natural pools attract wild swimmers year-round.
Walking trails wind through ancient woodlands and open grassland.
The mix of different landscapes is perfect for long walks and quiet moments.
Kenwood House sits within the Heath’s grounds, adding cultural interest to nature visits.
The Heath feels more like countryside than city parkland.
Wild areas and natural paths create an escape from urban life without leaving London.
Picnickers and families enjoy the open spaces.
Tennis courts and playgrounds provide activities for all ages and interests.
8) Victoria Park
Victoria Park sits in East London and covers 213 acres.
Locals call it “Vicky Park” for short.
The park opened in 1845, making it the city’s oldest public park.
Victoria Park offers space for picnics, walks, bike rides, and runs.
The park hosts cultural events throughout the year.
Families enjoy the attractions and open areas.
Spring brings colourful flowers across the grounds.
The park works well in any season.
The large size means there’s always space to find a quiet spot or join in activities.
Victoria Park serves as an important green space for East London residents.
Its central location makes it easy to reach from different parts of the city.
9) Battersea Park
Battersea Park is one of London’s most interesting Victorian green spaces.
This 200-acre park sits in Wandsworth, close to the River Thames.
Visitors can enjoy the scenic boating lake or take a stroll along the riverside promenade.
Families will love the children’s zoo and multiple play areas.
The park also features tennis courts, basketball facilities, and plenty of picnic spots.
The Peace Pagoda stands as a unique landmark.
The Old English Garden offers a quieter space for relaxation.
Art lovers can visit the Pump House Gallery.
Notable trees and ecological areas make it perfect for nature walks.
Battersea Park is easy to reach by tube from Sloane Square, Pimlico, or Victoria stations.
Battersea Park station on the London Overground provides another option.
The park has car parks at Chelsea Gate, Rosary Gate, and Albert Bridge Gate.
Buses 36 and 44 from Paddington also serve the area.
Built between 1854 and 1870, this Victorian park combines history with modern amenities.
10) Clapham Common
Clapham Common is one of London’s largest and oldest public spaces, covering over 85 hectares.
This historic green space appears in the Domesday Book from 1086.
The common sits between Clapham, Battersea, and Balham in South London.
Visitors can reach it easily from various London stations.
Wide open spaces are perfect for walking, running, and cycling.
Families enjoy picnic areas where children can run and play.
The park offers facilities including a boating lake and paddling pool.
Sports facilities for tennis, football, and cricket are available throughout the grounds.
Nature lovers enjoy the beautiful trees, wildflowers, and woodlands scattered across the common.
Lakes and ponds add to the peaceful atmosphere.
The space feels like countryside despite being in central London.
High trees surrounding the grass and gardens create a sense of escape from city life.
Dog owners find Clapham Common especially welcoming, with plenty of space for pets to exercise.
The park connects with other green spaces, including walking trails to Battersea Park.
11) Bushy Park
Bushy Park is one of London’s hidden gems.
This Royal Park covers 445 hectares, making it the second largest of the eight Royal Parks after Richmond Park.
The park sits north of Hampton Court Palace in southwest London.
Visitors can reach it by train to Teddington or bus from central London.
Wild deer roam freely throughout the grounds.
Red and fallow deer are often seen during walks through the parkland.
The Diana Fountain serves as a stunning centrepiece and dates back centuries.
We recommend exploring the 18th-century Waterhouse Woodland Gardens, which showcase beautiful seasonal displays and mature trees.
The park offers excellent walking opportunities, including a circular route of about five miles that takes roughly two hours to complete.
Most areas remain open to the public year-round.
Bushy Park is less crowded than other Royal Parks, giving visitors more space to enjoy nature.
The proximity to Hampton Court Palace adds historical interest.
Visitors can easily combine a park visit with palace tours for a full day out.
12) Burgess Park
Burgess Park is Southwark’s largest green space at 56 hectares. The park stretches from Camberwell and Walworth in the west to Peckham and Old Kent Road in the east.
The park began in 1943 as part of the Abercrombie Plan for open spaces. Unlike most London parks, Burgess Park was created from a densely built-up urban area.
The park offers diverse amenities, including Chumleigh Gardens and Almhouses. A peaceful lake sits at the centre, while sports facilities attract active visitors.
Families enjoy the well-equipped children’s play areas throughout the grounds. The park also has BBQ areas and an outdoor gym for fitness fans.
Several cafés in the park serve breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. These spots make it easy to refuel during your visit.
Despite busy roads nearby, the park has tranquil corners. The quiet, leafy areas provide a welcome break from city life.
Visitors rate the park highly, giving it a 4.5 on Google for its vibrant atmosphere and range of attractions.
13) Alexandra Park
Alexandra Park offers 196 acres of green space in North London. The park is ideal for families, dog walkers, and runners seeking a city escape.
The terrain mixes hills and flat areas. Visitors enjoy different experiences in one location.
Alexandra Palace sits within the park. It hosts concerts, events, and exhibitions year-round.
The higher parts of the park provide stunning views over London. Rolling hills offer great spots for picnics and photos.
The park divides into two main areas. Muswell Hill often features a weekly farmers market with local produce and crafts.
Tree-lined paths wind through the grounds. These paths make the park perfect for peaceful walks and morning jogs.
Sports facilities include tennis courts and football pitches. Children can enjoy playgrounds scattered throughout the park.
Visiting during event season is a highlight. Fireworks displays and outdoor concerts create memorable experiences.
Locals keep the park busy all year. Dog owners love the open spaces where pets can exercise freely.
14) Green Park
Green Park sits between Piccadilly and Buckingham Palace in central London. This Royal Park forms a green triangle in one of the city’s busiest areas.
Unlike other Royal Parks, Green Park has no flowerbeds or lakes. Instead, simple grassland and mature trees create a peaceful space.
The park covers 47 acres of open lawn. Large plane and oak trees provide shade in summer.
Green Park connects Hyde Park to St James’s Park. You can walk through all three parks without crossing busy roads.
The park opens from 5am to midnight daily. It’s one of the quieter Royal Parks, perfect for a peaceful break.
Office workers often eat lunch on the grass. The park also hosts outdoor events and ceremonies throughout the year.
Green Park, Hyde Park Corner, and Piccadilly Circus tube stations are a short walk from the park. All three offer easy access to the entrances.
Green Park offers a simple green space without fancy features. Its central location makes it easy to visit during a day of sightseeing.
15) Olympic Park
Olympic Park stands in Stratford, East London, as a reminder of the 2012 Olympics. Today, we know it as Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
The park covers a large area with open green spaces and modern facilities. Locals and visitors have enjoyed the park since the games ended.
You can walk through peaceful wetlands and meadows. The River Lea runs through the park, creating lovely waterside paths.
The park offers something for everyone. Sports fans visit world-class venues, and families enjoy playgrounds like Tumbling Bay.
Modern buildings add architectural interest throughout the park. The London Stadium stands as the main centrepiece.
We recommend this park for its mix of nature and modern design. It shows how London turned an Olympic site into a thriving community space.
Public transport connects the park well to central London. This makes it easy to visit during a day out.
16) Peckham Rye Park
Peckham Rye Park is one of South London’s hidden gems. This Victorian park joins with Peckham Rye Common to create 113 acres of green space.
The park has something for everyone. You can enjoy ornamental gardens, streams, a peaceful lake, and woodland areas for quiet walks.
Families appreciate the excellent play facilities. The park has a playground for children up to 11 and an adventure playground for kids aged 8-16.
The landscapes here are varied. The common provides open heathland, while the park features more formal landscaping.
The park sits in a very green part of SE15. It’s bordered by other parks like Burgess Park to the north and Goose Green to the south.
Wildlife thrives in this diverse environment. Water features, woodland, and grassland create perfect habitats for animals and birds.
Peckham Rye Park deserves more recognition for its beautiful setting and excellent facilities.
Tips for Visiting London Parks
Planning ahead helps you enjoy London’s green spaces. Weather, essential items, and park features all contribute to a great visit.
Best Times to Visit
Spring (March to May) is the best time for park visits. Flowers bloom, and temperatures stay comfortable for walking.
Early mornings (7-9 AM) offer the quietest experience. Wildlife is more active, and most tourists haven’t arrived yet.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Popular parks like Hyde Park and Greenwich Park fill up on Saturdays and Sundays.
Late summer (August-September) brings warm weather and more visitors. Book paid attractions in advance during peak season.
Winter works well for photography. Bare trees reveal new views of landmarks. Most parks stay open year-round, though some facilities close.
What to Pack for a Day Out
Weather essentials to bring:
- Umbrella or waterproof jacket
- Layered clothing for temperature changes
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
Food and drink make longer visits better. Many parks allow picnics. Bring reusable water bottles to refill at fountains.
Entertainment items for everyone:
- Frisbee or football for open spaces
- Books for quiet reading spots
- Camera for photos of views and wildlife
Practical supplies to prevent problems: tissues, hand sanitiser, and a small first aid kit. Bring cash for paid toilets and refreshment stands.
Mobile phone chargers help with navigation and photos during full-day visits.
Accessibility Information
Most royal parks have wheelchair access to main paths. Hyde Park, Greenwich Park, and Regent’s Park offer accessible toilets.
Mobility scooter hire is available at larger parks. Book these services 24 hours in advance through park websites.
Accessible parking is near major park entrances. Blue badge holders can use designated spaces at reduced rates.
Audio guides are available for visitors with visual impairments at Greenwich Park and Kew Gardens. Request these at visitor centres.
Assistance dogs are welcome in all London parks. Water bowls are available at most refreshment areas.
Transport links vary by location. Step-free tube access is available at Hyde Park Corner and Greenwich stations.
Seasonal Events and Activities
London’s parks change with the seasons, offering unique events and activities all year. From outdoor theatre in summer to winter ice skating, these green spaces provide entertainment for all ages.
Spring and Summer Highlights
Spring brings flower festivals and garden tours. Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens display beautiful blooms from March to May.
Summer turns parks into entertainment hubs. Regent’s Park hosts Open Air Theatre from May to September. Hyde Park features British Summer Time concerts with top artists.
Many parks offer outdoor cinema screenings on warm evenings. Greenwich Park and Battersea Park are popular venues.
Family activities peak in summer, including:
- Children’s workshops and craft sessions
- Sports activities and tournaments
- Guided nature walks
- Playground events and festivals
Hampstead Heath and Richmond Park organise seasonal wildlife tours. These help visitors spot deer, birds, and other animals.
Autumn and Winter Events
Autumn turns London’s parks into golden landscapes for seasonal walks. Battersea Park offers some of the city’s best autumn scenery.
Halloween events take place in royal parks during October. Activities include spooky walks, pumpkin carving, and ghost tours for families.
Winter brings ice skating rinks to several parks. Somerset House and Hyde Park host popular outdoor skating from November to January.
Christmas markets appear in parks like Greenwich Park and Covent Garden. These markets feature crafts, seasonal food, and festive entertainment.
Creative workshops increase in colder months. Indoor park facilities offer photography classes, art sessions, and nature crafts for all ages.
Conclusion
London’s parks have something special for everyone. These green spaces offer peaceful breaks from busy city life.
Hyde Park is the most famous, while Richmond Park gives you countryside feelings in the city.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Many visitors have questions about London’s parks, from the best walks to where to stay for easy access.
What is the most beautiful park in London?
Hyde Park stands out as one of London’s most beautiful parks. It covers 350 acres and features Speaker’s Corner and Hyde Park Corner.
Regent’s Park also ranks highly for beauty. The park includes London Zoo and stunning rose gardens that bloom in summer.
Which park should I visit in London?
If you’re visiting central London, start with Hyde Park. It’s easy to access and offers sights like the Serpentine Lake.
Richmond Park is perfect if you want to see deer roaming freely. It’s London’s largest Royal Park and provides excellent city views.
What to visit 1 hour away from London?
Windsor Great Park sits about an hour from central London. This large park surrounds Windsor Castle and offers beautiful walking trails.
You can also visit Hampton Court Palace and its gardens within an hour’s travel. The palace grounds feature formal gardens and a famous maze.
What’s the most visited park in London?
Hyde Park gets the most visitors each year. Its central location near Oxford Street and major hotels makes it very popular with tourists.
The park hosts major events throughout the year. Winter Wonderland and various concerts attract large crowds.
Which London park is best for a walk?
Richmond Park offers the best walking experience with its 2,500 acres of open space. Well-marked trails suit all fitness levels.
Regent’s Park provides excellent circular walks around its outer ring. The Inner Circle walk takes you past gardens and peaceful lakes.
What area of London is best for tourists to stay?
Kensington offers easy access to Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.
You can walk to major museums and shopping areas from this location.
Marylebone provides quick access to Regent’s Park.
This neighbourhood also has excellent transport links to other parts of London.
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About the Author
Joost Mijnarends
Joost is the co-founder of JF Property Partners, a family-run property business in the UK. His journey began with a £1 course that led to their first rent-to-rent property in 2023, and today he helps landlords and tenants find better property solutions.
