Best Parks to Visit in LONDON

London is home to some of the most beautiful parks in the world, each offering a unique escape from the bustling city streets. As someone who loves nature and tranquillity, exploring these green havens has been one of my favourite aspects of living in London. Here are my top picks for the best parks to visit:

1. Hyde Park:

This iconic park is a must-visit. Spanning 350 acres, Hyde Park is perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, or even boating on the Serpentine Lake. One of my favourite moments was renting a paddleboat and enjoying the serene waters with swans gliding gracefully nearby. The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain is a peaceful spot to reflect and relax. In the summer, open-air concerts and events bring an extra buzz to the park. With its wide open lawns, tree-lined paths, and vibrant flower gardens, Hyde Park is a popular destination for relaxation, recreation, and cultural events.

How to go There:

1. By London Underground (Tube):

• Central Line: Take the Central Line to either Marble Arch or Lancaster Gate stations. Both are located on the northern edge of Hyde Park.
• Piccadilly Line: Take the Piccadilly Line to Hyde Park Corner station, which is on the southeastern edge of the park.
• District and Circle Lines: Take either the District or Circle Line to High Street Kensington or South Kensington stations. Both are close to the western side of Hyde Park.

2. By Bus:

• Several bus routes serve Hyde Park. Common buses include routes 9, 10, 52, 94, 148, and 390.
• You can use the Transport for London (TfL) website or app to find the best bus route based on your starting location.

3. By Walking:

• If you’re staying in central London, Hyde Park is within walking distance from many neighborhoods like Mayfair, Kensington, or Paddington.
• Walking is a pleasant way to reach the park, allowing you to enjoy the city’s streets.

4. By Bicycle:

• You can use the Santander Cycles (also known as “Boris Bikes”) available throughout London. Several docking stations are located near Hyde Park, such as at Lancaster Gate, Bayswater Road, and South Carriage Drive.
• There are dedicated cycling paths in and around Hyde Park, making it bike-friendly.

5. By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service:

• You can take a black cab or use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Bolt to get directly to Hyde Park. The exact drop-off point can be arranged with your driver.

6. By Car:

• If you’re driving, you can enter Hyde Park via the major roads surrounding it, such as Bayswater Road (north), Park Lane (east), Kensington Road (south), or Knightsbridge (southeast).
• Note that parking can be limited and expensive in central London, and there may be congestion charges.

7. By Train:

• If you’re arriving from outside London, you can take a train to Paddington Station (near the northwestern corner of Hyde Park) or Victoria Station (south of the park). From either station, you can walk, take a bus, or hop on the Tube to reach the park.

8. By Coach:

• Some coach services may drop off passengers at major stations or stops near Hyde Park, such as Victoria Coach Station. From there, you can walk, take the Tube, or catch a bus.

2. Regent’s Park:

 Known for its stunning gardens and wide-open spaces, Regent’s Park is a gem. The Queen Mary’s Gardens, with over 12,000 roses, is simply breath-taking. I love visiting the park in spring when the flowers are in full bloom. The park also houses the ZSL London Zoo, a fantastic day out for families. Climbing Primrose Hill for panoramic views of London is a must, especially at sunset. The park’s mix of formal gardens, sports facilities, and natural beauty makes it a popular spot for relaxation, outdoor activities, and enjoying nature in the city.

How to go there:

 1. By London Underground (Tube):

• Bakerloo Line: Take the Bakerloo Line to Regent’s Park station, which is located at the southern edge of the park.
• Jubilee Line: Take the Jubilee Line to Baker Street station. The station is a short walk from the southwestern corner of Regent’s Park.
• Metropolitan, Circle, and Hammersmith & City Lines: Also serve Baker Street station, providing additional options to access the park.
• Northern Line: Take the Northern Line to Camden Town or Chalk Farm stations. Both are located near the northern edge of Regent’s Park.

2. By Bus:

• Several bus routes serve the area around Regent’s Park. Common buses include routes 18, 27, 30, 74, 82, 113, 139, 205, 274, and 453.
• You can use the Transport for London (TfL) website or app to find the best bus route based on your starting location.

3. By Walking:

• Regent’s Park is within walking distance of several central London neighborhoods, including Marylebone, Camden, and St John’s Wood. Walking is a pleasant way to get there, particularly if you’re exploring the city.

4. By Bicycle:

• You can use the Santander Cycles (also known as “Boris Bikes”) to cycle to Regent’s Park. There are several docking stations around the park, particularly along the Outer Circle road.
• The park itself is bike-friendly with designated cycling paths.

5. By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service:

• You can take a black cab or use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Bolt to get directly to Regent’s Park. Specify a location such as the main gates or the Inner Circle road for drop-off.

6. By Car:

• If driving, you can approach Regent’s Park via major roads like Marylebone Road (south) or Park Road (west).
• Parking is limited and may be expensive in central London. There are parking spaces on the Outer Circle, but availability can be challenging, especially during peak times.

7. By Train:

• If you’re arriving from outside London, you can take a train to Euston Station (south of the park) or Marylebone Station (west of the park). From there, you can walk, take the Tube, or catch a bus to reach Regent’s Park.

8. By Coach:

• Some coach services may drop off passengers at major stations or stops near Regent’s Park, such as Victoria Coach Station or the area near Baker Street. From there, you can walk, take the Tube, or catch a bus.

3. James’s Park:

Nestled in the heart of London, St. James’s Park offers picturesque views of Buckingham Palace and the Horse Guards Parade. The park’s lake, with its resident pelicans, is a delightful sight. I often enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, followed by a visit to the charming Blue Bridge for stunning views of the London skyline. The flower beds here are meticulously maintained and vibrant throughout the year. The park provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city, with lush greenery and scenic vistas that are perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxation. Its central location makes it a convenient and delightful spot to enjoy London’s historic and royal surroundings.

How to go There:

1. By London Underground (Tube):

• District and Circle Lines: The closest station is St. James’s Park station, which is located just south of the park.
• Victoria, Jubilee, and District Lines: Take the Tube to Westminster station, which is located to the southeast of the park, near Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
• Victoria Line: Take the Victoria Line to Victoria station, which is located a short walk southwest of the park, close to Buckingham Palace.
• Piccadilly Line: Take the Piccadilly Line to Green Park station, which is north of St. James’s Park and a short walk through Green Park.

2. By Bus:

• Several bus routes serve the area around St. James’s Park. Common buses include routes 11, 24, 148, 211, 453, and C10.
• You can use the Transport for London (TfL) website or app to find the best bus route based on your starting location.

3. By Walking:

• St. James’s Park is within walking distance of many central London neighborhoods, such as Westminster, Victoria, and Mayfair. It’s a great option if you’re exploring nearby attractions like Buckingham Palace or Trafalgar Square.

4. By Bicycle:

• Santander Cycles (also known as “Boris Bikes”) are available throughout central London. Several docking stations are located near St. James’s Park, particularly along Birdcage Walk and Buckingham Gate.
• The park itself is bike-friendly, though cycling within the park is restricted to certain areas.

5. By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service:

• You can take a black cab or use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Bolt to get directly to St. James’s Park. Specify a location such as the Mall, Horse Guards Road, or Buckingham Palace for drop-off.

6. By Car:

• If you’re driving, you can approach St. James’s Park via major roads like The Mall (north), Birdcage Walk (south), or Victoria Street (west).
• Parking is very limited in central London, and there may be congestion charges. It’s often easier to use public transport or walk.

7. By Train:

• If you’re arriving from outside London, Victoria Station (southwest of the park) or Charing Cross Station (northeast of the park) are the nearest major train stations. From there, you can walk, take the Tube, or catch a bus to reach the park.

8. By Coach:

• Some coach services may drop off passengers at Victoria Coach Station. From there, St. James’s Park is a short walk or a brief bus ride away.

4. Greenwich Park:

Steeped in history and offering some of the best views in London, Greenwich Park is a favourite of mine. The Royal Observatory, where you can stand on the Prime Meridian line, is a fascinating visit. The panoramic view from the top of the hill, overlooking the River Thames and Canary Wharf, is absolutely worth the climb. The park features lush gardens, beautiful woodland areas, and the charming Queen’s Walk along the river.  The park’s sprawling meadows are perfect for picnics, and the deer park adds a touch of wildlife to your visit.

How to go There:

1. By London Underground (Tube) and DLR:

• Jubilee Line to North Greenwich: Take the Jubilee Line to North Greenwich station. From there, you can catch a bus (routes 188 or 129) or take a short taxi ride to the park.
• DLR (Docklands Light Railway): Take the DLR to Cutty Sark or Greenwich station. Both stations are located close to Greenwich Park, with Cutty Sark being just a short walk away.

2. By Train:

• Southeastern Trains: You can take a Southeastern train from central London to Greenwich Station or Maze Hill Station. Both stations are a short walk to Greenwich Park, with Maze Hill being closer to the eastern entrance.
• From London Bridge: Direct trains run from London Bridge to Greenwich or Maze Hill stations, making it a quick and convenient journey.

3. By Riverboat:

• Thames Clippers: You can take a riverboat service from central London to Greenwich Pier. The riverboat offers a scenic way to travel, and the pier is a short walk from Greenwich Park, passing by the Cutty Sark and the National Maritime Museum.

4. By Bus:

• Several bus routes serve the area around Greenwich Park. Common buses include routes 129, 177, 180, 188, 199, 286, and 386.
• You can use the Transport for London (TfL) website or app to find the best bus route based on your starting location.

5. By Walking:

• If you’re already in Greenwich, you can easily walk to the park. The walk from the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum, or Greenwich Market is short and scenic, taking you through historic streets and past local landmarks.

6. By Bicycle:

• You can cycle to Greenwich Park using the Santander Cycles (Boris Bikes) or your own bike. There are docking stations near the park, and the park itself has bike racks near the entrances.
• Cycling is a popular way to explore the area, but note that cycling within the park is restricted to certain paths.

7. By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service:

• You can take a black cab or use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Bolt to get directly to Greenwich Park. Popular drop-off points include the main gates at Maze Hill or Blackheath Avenue.

8. By Car:

• If driving, you can approach Greenwich Park via major roads like A2 (Shooters Hill Road) or A206 (Greenwich High Road).
• Parking in Greenwich can be challenging, especially on weekends. There are some car parks near the park, but availability is limited, and there may be charges.

9. By Coach:

• Some coach services may drop off passengers near Greenwich, such as at North Greenwich Station or Greenwich Station. From there, it’s a short bus or taxi ride to the park.

5. Richmond Park:

If you’re looking for a more wild and expansive green space, Richmond Park is the place to go. This park is famous for its free-roaming deer, and spotting them among the ancient trees is always a thrill. I love cycling through the park’s vast pathways, feeling miles away from the city’s hustle. Isabella Plantation, with its vibrant rhododendrons and azaleas, is a hidden gem within the park, especially beautiful in late spring. The park offers stunning views of the city from the King Henry’s Mound, and features various walking and cycling paths. Richmond Park is a peaceful retreat from urban life, ideal for outdoor activities, picnics, and enjoying nature.

How to Go There:

1. By Train:

• South Western Railway: Take a train from central London to Richmond Station. Trains run frequently from Waterloo, Clapham Junction, and Vauxhall. From Richmond Station, you can either walk (about 20-30 minutes) or take a bus to one of the park’s entrances.
• From Other Locations: You can also take trains to North Sheen, Mortlake, or Barnes Station, all of which are near the park, with varying walking distances to different gates.

2. By London Underground (Tube):

• District Line: Take the District Line to Richmond Station. From there, you can walk, take a bus, or cycle to the park.
• District Line and Overground: Alternatively, take the District Line to Kew Gardens Station or the Overground to Richmond. Both are relatively close to the park, with Kew Gardens being a bit further but providing a scenic route through the Royal Botanic Gardens (if you decide to visit there as well).

3. By London Overground:

• The London Overground serves Richmond Station directly, making it a convenient option if you’re traveling from other parts of London on the Overground network.

4. By Bus:

• Several bus routes serve the area around Richmond Park. Common buses include routes 371, 65, 190, 337, 493, and 85.
• You can use the Transport for London (TfL) website or app to find the best bus route based on your starting location. Buses can drop you near various park gates, such as Richmond Gate, Roehampton Gate, or Sheen Gate.

5. By Bicycle:

• You can cycle to Richmond Park using the Santander Cycles (Boris Bikes) or your own bike. There are several bike racks near the park entrances.
• Cycling is popular within the park, and there are dedicated cycling paths. The park is also a favorite spot for road cyclists.

6. By Walking:

• If you’re already in the Richmond area, you can walk to the park. It’s a pleasant walk from Richmond town center or Kew Gardens, passing through local streets or along the River Thames.

7. By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service:

• You can take a black cab or use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Bolt to get directly to Richmond Park. Common drop-off points include the main gates like Richmond Gate, Roehampton Gate, or Kingston Gate.

8. By Car:

• If driving, you can reach Richmond Park via major roads like A205 (South Circular Road) or A308 (Kingston Road). The park has several car parks near the main gates, including Richmond Gate, Sheen Gate, Pembroke Lodge, Kingston Gate, and Roehampton Gate.
• Parking within the park is usually free, but spaces can be limited, especially on weekends and holidays.

9. By Coach:

• Some coach services may drop off passengers in nearby areas like Richmond or Kingston. From there, you can take a short bus ride or taxi to the park.

10. By Riverboat and Walking:

• Although not direct, you can take a Thames Riverboat to Richmond Pier and then walk or cycle to the park. This is a scenic option, especially in good weather.

6. Hampstead Heath:

This Park offers a rugged, natural beauty with its woodlands, meadows, and ponds. I enjoy hiking up to Parliament Hill for one of the best views of London’s skyline. On hot days, the bathing ponds and the lido are perfect for a refreshing swim. The sprawling heath is also a fantastic place for dog walking, picnicking, and simply getting lost in nature.

How to go There:

1. By London Underground (Tube):

• Northern Line (Edgware Branch): Take the Northern Line to Hampstead Station or Belsize Park Station. Both stations are within walking distance to the Heath, with Hampstead Station being slightly closer.
• Northern Line (High Barnet Branch): Take the Northern Line to Archway Station. From there, it’s a short bus ride or a longer walk to the eastern side of the Heath.

2. By London Overground:

• Overground Line: Take the Overground to Hampstead Heath Station or Gospel Oak Station. Both stations are right on the edge of the Heath, making them very convenient for direct access.

3. By Train:

• Thameslink: Take a Thameslink train to West Hampstead Thameslink Station. From there, you can walk (about 20 minutes) or take a bus to the Heath.

4. By Bus:

• Several bus routes serve the area around Hampstead Heath. Common buses include routes 24, 46, 168, 210, 268, C11, and N5.
• You can use the Transport for London (TfL) website or app to find the best bus route based on your starting location. Buses can drop you near various entrances to the Heath, such as Parliament Hill, the Vale of Health, or East Heath Road.

5. By Bicycle:

• Hampstead Heath is accessible by bike, and there are several bike racks near the park entrances. Cycling within the Heath is permitted on designated paths, and it’s a popular way to explore the area.
• Santander Cycles: (Boris Bikes) are available in some parts of Hampstead, though the docking stations are not directly adjacent to the Heath.

6. By Walking:

• If you’re staying in nearby areas like Hampstead, Belsize Park, or Highgate, you can easily walk to the Heath. The walk itself is a pleasant way to explore the local neighborhoods and streets.
• Walking from Primrose Hill or Regent’s Park can also be a scenic route, combining visits to multiple parks.

7. By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service:

• You can take a black cab or use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Bolt to get directly to Hampstead Heath. Popular drop-off points include Parliament Hill, Hampstead Ponds, or Kenwood House.

8. By Car:

• If driving, you can approach Hampstead Heath via major roads like A502 (Hampstead High Street) or A400 (Highgate Road). Parking near the Heath can be challenging, especially on weekends, and some areas have restrictions or require permits.
• There are limited parking spaces at the Heath’s entrances, particularly near East Heath Road and South End Green.

9. By Coach:

• Some coach services may drop off passengers at major transport hubs like Euston Station or King’s Cross Station. From there, you can take the Tube, Overground, or a bus to Hampstead Heath.

7. Kew Gardens:

Technically a botanical garden, Kew Gardens is a paradise for plant lovers. The vast collection of plants, housed in stunning Victorian glasshouses like the Palm House and the Temperate House, is extraordinary. I often find myself mesmerized by the exotic plants and flowers. The treetop walkway offers a unique perspective of the gardens from above, and the Japanese Garden provides a peaceful retreat.

How to go There:

1. By London Underground (Tube):

• District Line (Richmond Branch): Take the District Line to Kew Gardens Station. The station is just a short walk (about 5-10 minutes) from the Victoria Gate entrance of Kew Gardens.

2. By London Overground:

• Overground Line: The London Overground also serves Kew Gardens Station, making it a convenient option if you’re traveling from other parts of London on the Overground network.

3. By Train:

• South Western Railway: You can take a train from central London (Waterloo Station) to Kew Bridge Station. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the Elizabeth Gate entrance on the western side of Kew Gardens.

4. By Bus:

• Several bus routes serve the area around Kew Gardens. Common buses include routes 65, 391, 237, 267, and H91.
• Bus route 65 runs between Ealing Broadway and Kingston, stopping close to the Victoria Gate entrance.
• You can use the Transport for London (TfL) website or app to find the best bus route based on your starting location.

5. By Riverboat:

• Thames River Services operates a seasonal riverboat service from central London (Westminster Pier) to Kew Pier. The pier is a pleasant 15-minute walk along the river to the Kew Gardens entrance.
• This is a scenic option, particularly in good weather, and offers a unique way to arrive at Kew Gardens.

6. By Bicycle:

• You can cycle to Kew Gardens using Santander Cycles (Boris Bikes) or your own bike. There are bike racks near the entrances, including Victoria Gate and Elizabeth Gate.
• Cycling within the gardens is not permitted, but it’s a popular way to explore the surrounding area.

7. By Walking:

• If you’re staying nearby in areas like Richmond or Chiswick, you can walk to Kew Gardens. The walk is scenic and offers views of the River Thames and the local neighborhoods.
• Walking from Richmond Park or Syon Park can also be a pleasant way to reach Kew.

8. By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service:

• You can take a black cab or use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Bolt to get directly to Kew Gardens. The most common drop-off points are Victoria Gate (main entrance) or Elizabeth Gate.

9. By Car:

• If driving, you can approach Kew Gardens via major roads like A307 (Kew Road) or M4.
• Parking is available at Kew Gardens, with the main car park located near Brentford Gate (entry via Ferry Lane). Parking is limited and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during events.

10. By Coach:

• Some coach services may drop off passengers at major transport hubs like Richmond Station or Hammersmith Station. From there, you can take a bus, Tube, or train to Kew Gardens.

Each of these parks has its own charm and character, making them perfect escapes from the urban jungle. Whether you’re seeking tranquillity, stunning views, or vibrant floral displays, London’s parks offer a green oasis for everyone. These parks have provided me with countless peaceful moments and joyful adventures, making them an essential part of the London experience.