London is a great place to visit, either with the kids, your partner, your friends or even on your own. It is home to numerus attractions, free museums, plenty of shops and despite it being a built up city you will still find lots of gorgeous parks and green land. These free parks and green spaces provide residents and visitors with a chance to relax and enjoy nature within the bustling city, take a break from the pace and enjoy a coffee, a picnic or simply a walk. Here are ten of the best free parks in London:
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of the largest and most famous parks in London. It offers a range of recreational activities, including boating, cycling, and horse riding and is worth a visit, especially if this is your first trip to London. Hyde Park also hosts events and concerts throughout the year due to it’s impressive space and great links with public transport. If you are visiting Hyde Park with the kids you will find lots of things to keep them busy including a play park, the Diana fountain and the pool.
Regent’s Park
Regents park is one of the Royal Parks in London and spans across 410 acres. It is famously known for its beautiful gardens including the Queen Mary’s Garden with a stunning collection of roses and for housing the London Zoo. It is also a popular destination for picnics, sports, and leisurely walks. . On a summers day you can easily spend 3-4 hours here exploring and relaxing in the sun.
Green Park
Situated close to Buckingham Palace, Green Park is a serene space with tree-lined pathways, open lawns, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll and if you are here on a sight seeing trip then it is worth adding to your itinerary after your visit to the Palace for a much needed pit stop.
Richmond Park
The largest of London’s Royal Parks, Richmond Park, is famous for its deer herds, beautiful landscapes, and Pembroke Lodge, which offers scenic views of the city. This is definitely the park to visit if you are hoping to see some wildlife whilst n London as it is home to not only herds of deer but also birds, invertebrates, fungi and wildflowers.
Victoria Park
Located in East London, Victoria Park is a vibrant space with lakes, fountains, and playgrounds. It hosts various events, festivals, and markets throughout the year and is the perfect place to visit if you are here with children.
St. James’s Park
Adjacent to Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Park is known for its stunning views, a picturesque lake, and the iconic Horse Guards Parade. If you are here as a tourist you will find that you are no doubt getting your steps in as you walk from one tourist attraction to the next so use St. James’s Park as a place to take a break, catch your breath and maybe even stop for dinner. It’s a great place for bird watching too, if that’s your thing.
Hampstead Heath
This expansive heathland in North London provides panoramic views of the city skyline. Hampstead Heath includes ponds, woodlands, and is a popular spot for outdoor swimming.
Kensington Gardens
Adjacent to Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens is home to Kensington Palace. The gardens feature the serene Italian Gardens, the Albert Memorial, and the Serpentine Gallery.
Battersea Park
Situated along the Thames River, Battersea Park offers a mix of gardens, sports facilities, and a children’s zoo. The park also has a boating lake and a Peace Pagoda. Battersea Park is a must visit if you are here with children.
Holland Park
Known for its elegant Kyoto Garden, Holland Park in West London offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens, peacocks, and a woodland area.
All 10 free parks in London can be accessed easily either on foot or by using public transport. Vising some of these parks is a great way to break up your trip to London and allow you to sit back and relax away from the hustle and bustle, they also allow you to enjoy some free fun too, well apart from the ice creams of course! However, if the weather isn’t very nice during your stay then don’t worry as there are still lots of fun rainy day activities in London to be had to.