Looking for beautiful parks and gardens in London? Here are 50+ of the best green spaces in London, England for you to explore ASAP! Sorted by the best parks and gardens in Central, North, South, East, and West London. Enjoy!
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Whenever someone asks me what’s my favorite thing about London, I always say — the parks!
With over 40% green space London is basically a forest (well, in the eyes of the UN it technically is a forest).
Whether you’re in London for a spell or a Londoner yourself, you’ll want to take advantage of all the parks and gardens London has to offer.
Without further ado, here are 50 parks to explore across London (just think of it as your own London park bucket list). As London is quite massive, I’ve broken it down by area so you can explore the best parks and gardens near you.
Table of Contents
Best Parks and Gardens in Central London
1. St James Park
London SW1A 2BJ
Starting with the creme de la creme of London green spaces with St. James Park. It’s one of my favorite pit stops walking through Central London and leads nicely up to Buckingham Palace.
But outside of the amazing views and plethora of bird watching opps, St. James Park holds a mighty rich history — transforming from swampy grasslands in the thirteenth century to a leper hospital and eventually (after Charless II took the reigns) into the St. James Park we see today.
While here you’ll most likely explore Westminster Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, House Guards Palace and all the added charm Central London has to offer.
St James Park Opening Hours: 5am-midnight
Nearest Stations: Green Park, St James’ Park
Website: royalparks.org.uk/st-james-park
Read More: A Self-Guided Stroll Through Central-London
2. Hyde Park
London, W2 2UH
Opened in 1637 Hyde Park is the epitome of London green space.
With tons of concerts year-round you’re never far off from a new event to wander into (or a protest). But, thanks to its 350 acres you can equally enjoy some peace and quiet with a picnic at their Serendipity lake, a bite at their waterside café, and a tribute to Diana at the Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain.
Hyde Park Opening Hours: 5am-12am
Nearest Stations: Hyde Park Corner, Lancaster Gate station, Marble Arch, Knightsbridge
Website: royalparks.org.uk/hyde-park
3. Green Park
London SW1A 1AA
Just a stone’s throw away from Buckingham Palace you’ll find London’s royal green space — Green Park.
This no-frills park has been around since medieval times, spruced up in the times of Charles II. Although there’s not much to do here, walking around the grounds or parking on one of the benches with a good book makes for a great afternoon — especially after a stroll around Central.
Green Park Opening Hours: 5am-12am
Nearest Station: Green Park
Website: royalparks.org.uk/green-park
4. Calthorpe Gardens
258-74 Grays Inn Road, WC1X 8LH
For an attractive city escape, mosey your way to Calthorpe Gardens.
Outside of its charming garden and beehive Calthorpe Gardens is also a community project with a greenhouse dedicated to transforming waste into renewable energy.
Even if you don’t have a green thumb you can spend some lazy minutes looking at all the edible goods and their wild garden. They even do Pliates, yoga, and meditation classes!
Calthorpe Gardens Opening Hours: 10am-6pm summer, 9am-5pm winter
Nearest Station: King’s Cross
Website: calthorpeproject.org.uk
5. Grosvenor Square Garden
Grosvenor Square, W1K 4AF
One of Mayfair’s most loved hideaways Grosvenor Square holds the Franklin Roosevelt Memorial and the British Victims of the World Trade Center and Pentagon attacks memorial.
A quiet and intimate space, this is definitely a garden for reflection. But it’s not all somber, after a tribute you can enjoy the Bianca roses and oak pergolas waiting to be admired.
Grosvenor Square Garden Opening Hours: 8am-dusk
Nearest Stations: Bond Street, Marble Arch
Website: royalparks.org.uk/grosvenor-square-garden
6. Gray’s Inn Gardens
4 Gray’s Inn Square, WC1R 5DX
It’d be more than easy to miss this tiny London garden, but if you’re a law buff — you’ll want to scout it out.
A tranquil lawn surrounded by glorious terraced buildings — Gray’s Inn Gardens has been the resting place for law clerks and their apprentices since the fourteenth century.
In fact, Charles Dickens worked right across the road from here!
Gray’s Inn Gardens Opening Hours: 12-2:30pm weekdays
Nearest Station: Chancery Lane
Website: graysinn.org.uk
7. Millbank Gardens
John Islip Street, SW1P 4RG
If you’re visiting Tate Britain you’ll most certainly want to peek into the Millbank Gardens after.
Not the most eye-catching garden in London I must admit, but with pollarded maples, bamboo bushes, and holly trees, it’s the perfect pit stop after a day of museum wanderings.
Millbank Gardens Opening Hours: 8am-dusk
Nearest Stations: Victoria, Vauxhall
Website: parksandgardens.org/millbank-gardens
8. Quaker Gardens
Bunhill Fields Meeting House, Quaker Court, Banner Street, EC1Y 8QQ
Home of one of London’s largest plane trees, the historic Quaker Gardens is the resting home of George Fox, one of the original founders of Quakerism!
Although many of the surrounding buildings were destroyed in the Second World War, one cottage remained and is now a place for worship.
A visit here will give you the perfect secluded escape from Central London, and of course, beautiful foliage to admire.
Quaker Gardens Opening Hours: all day
Nearest Station: Old Street
Website: parksandgardens.org/quaker-gardens
9. Parliament Square Garden
Adjacent toBridge Street London SW1A 2LW England
Perhaps the most famous garden in London, and for good reason.
Ten years after the opening of Big Ben in 1858, Parliament Square Garden was added as a peaceful backdrop to counter the intensity of life inside the Houses of Parliament.
In 1966, it was named a ‘Registered Garden of Special Historic Interest’, allowing not only a stunning view of Big Ben and Westminster Abbey — but a front seat to many of the breaking news announcements, public gatherings, and protests that take place in Central London.
Parliament Square Garden Opening Hours: all day
Nearest Stations: Westminster, St James’s Park
Website: london.gov.uk/parliament-square-garden
10. Victoria Tower Gardens
Millbank, London SW1P 3JA
What if I told you behind the grandeur of Big Ben, you’d find a secret garden. Well, I suppose you’d have to go to find out, but I’ll let you in on the secret — it’s Victoria Tower Gardens.
A pocket of park housing Buxton Memorial (in honor of the abolition of slavery) it’s the perfect resting spot after a stroll around Central. Like Parliament Square Gardens you’ll also catch news outlets here like the BBC, covering breaking stories straight from the grounds.
Victoria Tower Gardens Opening Hours: 7am-10pm
Nearest Station: Westminster
Website: royalparks.org.uk/parks/victoria-tower-gardens
11. St George’s Gardens
Bloomsbury, WC1 from the Handel Street and Heathcote Street entrance
The original St George’s burial grounds were renovated into a garden in 1884, and it’s been here ever since. Despite its long history, many Londoners still don’t know it exists as it sneakily hides behind the Foundling Museum.
A tranquil resting place for many W1 workers, you’ll definitely want to pop by here if you’re ever in the area.
St George’s Opening Hours: dusk-dawn
Nearest Stations: Russell Square, King’s Cross
Website: friendsofstgeorgesgardens.org.uk
12. Whitehall Gardens
Victoria Embankment, Westminster, London SW1A 2HE
Another royally acclaimed garden — Whitehall garden is a hidden oasis and once pleasure garden for the monarchs and Tudors of the time.
Nowadays, it’s where I head after a walk along Westminster Bridge to enjoy the spring flowers in bloom (they’re absolutely lovely!), interesting statues, and all the stunning architectural backdrops Central London has to offer.
Whitehall Gardens Opening Hours: all day
Nearest Stations: Embankment, Westminster
Website: guidelondon.org.uk/whitehall-gardens
13. St Dunstan in the East
St. Dunstan’s Hill, off Lower Thames Street, EC3R 8DX
If you’re keen for a bit more secret London then you’ll want to head to St Dunstan in the East.
Walking through the ruins of this eighteenth-century church instantly feels like stepping back in time (cue cobbled walkways, overgrown vines, and stained church windows). As it’s in Central you’ll also catch city workers here — taking a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of London.
St Dunstan in the East Opening Hours: 8am-7pm/dusk
Nearest Stations: Monument, Tower Hill
Website: cityoflondon.gov.uk/st-dunstan-in-the-east-church-garden
Best Parks and Gardens in North London
14. Hampstead Heath
West Gate Lodge, Hampstead Lane, Hampstead Heath. London. NW3 7JP
A London park that deserves its dues Hampstead Heath is as famous as it is beautiful.
Dating back 200 years, outside of being the inspiration (yes, the literal inspiration) for C.S Lewis’s Narnia — there’s plenty to do in the nearly 800 acres of green space.
Between the swimming ponds, spectacular views, and ample opportunity to explore the dozens of local shops and charming pubs in the area, you’ll want to make a day of it.
Hampstead Heath Opening Hours: all day
Nearest Stations: Hampstead, Golders Green, Tufnell Park, Kentish Town
Website: hampsteadheath.net
15. Regent’s Park
London NW1 4NR
Iconically romantic and one of the best places to see autumn leaves in London, Regent’s Park is one of London’s most loved green space, by locals and tourists alike.
Opened to the public in 1835 by King William IV the area covers 197 acres filled with everything from an open-air theatre to a boating lake, zoo, and lovely boat rides that go through Camden and Little Venice (both worth exploring).
Regent’s Park Opening Hours: 5am-various times each month
Nearest Station: Regent’s Park
Website: royalparks.org.uk/regents-park
16. Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill Rd, Primrose Hill, London NW1 4NR
I am obsessed with Primrose Hill. From charming cafés to skyscraping city views — this London green space is worth every journey.
A natural hill and park opened in 1842 it’s the perfect place to have a mini lunch feast with friends and take in the views. So, grab some wine and sandwiches and make an afternoon of it, or even better, go to Camden beforehand and bring over some treats from Camden market!
Opening Hours: all day
Nearest Stations: Chalk Farm, Swiss Cottage station, or a short walk from Camden)
Website: royalparks.org.uk/primrose-hill
17. Golders Hill Park
N End Way, London NW3 7HE
Even though Hampstead Heath gets all the glory, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pay a visit to Golders Hill Park.
A stunning green space fit with a cafe, butterfly house, and stumpery garden, its beauty earned it a spot as a Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conversation.
Golders Hill Park Opening Hours: 7:30am-dusk
Nearest Station: Golders Green
Website: cityoflondon.gov.uk/golders-hill-park
18. Roundwood Park
Harlesden Rd, London NW10 3SH
Nestled between Harlesden and Willesden is none other than Roundwood Park.
Transforming from a modest green space with few oak trees — architect Oliver Claude Robson took over in 1875, birthing the floral displays, serene statues’, and year-round public events we see today.
Roundwood Park Opening Hours: all day
Nearest Station: Willesden Green
Website: brent-heritage.co.uk/roundwood-park
19. Finsbury Park
Finsbury Park, Haringey, London N4
From a humble opening in 1869 to international music events (like the Wireless Festival), Finsbury Park truly has something for everyone.
Be sure to peek into the leafy side streets after your park visit!
Finsbury Park Opening Hours: 9am-10pm
Nearest Station: Finsbury Park
Website: haringey.gov.uk/finsbury-park
20. Broomfield Park
Aldermans Hill, London N13 4HR
Broomfield Park’s community orchard, lush Conservatory and 21 acres of green space is enough reason to add it to your South London itinerary.
An afternoon here would include most likely include strolling along one of their three lakes, having a bite at the community cafe, and taking in all the wildlife on offer.
Broomfield Park Opening Hours: 8am/8:30am-dusk
Nearest Stations: Arnos Grove, Bounds Green, Southgate
Website: friendsofbroomfieldpark.org
21. Alexandra Park
Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7AY
From an 1863 city escape to 1970 horse racing grounds for London’s elite (to one of London’s most award-winning green spaces), Alexandra Park has quite the reputation in London.
Maybe it’s the 80-acres covered in lime trees, hilltops, and hundreds of plants and wildlife. Maybe it’s the backdrop of Ally Pally, with headline concerts year-round. Either way, it’s definitely how you should spend a day in South London.
Alexandra Park Opening Hours: 7:30am/9am-5 or 6pm depending on the season
Nearest Station: Alexandra Palace
Website: alexandrapalace.com
22. Cohen’s Fields
(Opposite) 26 Hampstead Lane, N6 4NX
Hampstead Heath gets all the glory — but have you heard of Cohen’s Fields?
With striking pathways and lush meadows, you’ll want to make your way to London’s quiet charm. Strolling through the grounds easily feels like taking a walk in the countryside, although with ancient oaks and a hidden pool waiting for you at the top.
Cohen’s Fields Opening Hours: all day
Nearest Station: Highgate
Website: heathandhampstead.org.uk/heath-map/
23. King’s Henry’s Walk Garden
11c King Henry’s Walk, Mildmay Ward, London N1 4NX
Tucked in Islington this award-winning garden is all you need to feel like a local.
The garden is run by volunteers and avid gardeners — planting over 45 plant species throughout the year from dainty tulips to vibrant fuchsias.
An afternoon here would most likely involve admiring all the bees, birds and butterflies, and a friendly chat with the Londoners that make King Henry’s Walk enjoyable for all.
King Henry’s Walk Opening Hours: Saturday & Sunday 12pm-4pm
Nearest Stations: Canonbury, Dalston Kingsland, Dalston Junction
Website: khwgarden.org.uk
24. World Peace Garden
6 S Hill Park, Hampstead, London NW3 2SB
A garden with a mission World Peace Gardens is where you go for quiet contemplation and reflection.
Taking eight years to build — artist Melissa Fairbanks brought the garden to life with vibrant wisteria and glass tiles — encouraging children to leave messages entailing the world they want to see when they grow up. There’s also a lovely cherry tree on the grounds planted by Anne Frank’s sister — Eva Schloss.
World Peace Gardens Opening Hours: 10am-6pm
Nearest Stations: Hampstead, Belsize Park
Website: worldpeacegardencamden.org
25. Clissold Park
Green Lanes, Stoke Newington, London N16 9HJ
A Hackney favorite Clissold Park is a proud winner of a Green Flag — awarded to the UK’s best green spaces.
Opened in 1889 Clissold Park is a staple to the local community, including the cherished Clissold House which can even be used for weddings! But it’s all the lovely fountains, quaint ponds, and organic gardens that make Clissold park a true North London treasure.
Clissold Park Opening Hours: 6:45am-6:30pm
Nearest Stations: Manor House, Arsenal, Finsbury Park
Website: hackney.gov.uk/clissold-park
Best Parks and Gardens in East London
26. Victoria Park
Grove Rd, London E3 5TB
Built out of necessity for the growing East End population — Victoria Park was born in the early 19th century and has been one of the best parks in London ever since.
Voted London’s best park by Londoners, it’d be a shame to miss a visit to Victoria Park if you’re ever in East London. Spanning 213 acres you can do everything here from sip coffee in the Pavilion Cafe to enjoy a good read in the Pedestrian alcove.
Victoria Park Opening Hours: 7am-dusk
Nearest Station: Mile End
Website: towerhamlets.gov.uk
27. London Fields
London Fields West Side, Hackney, London E8 3EU
An area and park alike — London Fields is a prime East London city escape.
Although it gets quite busy, you can still feel relaxed amongst the striking wildflower meadow, bursting with perennials, annuals, pink cosmos, and poppies. And it makes a great date spot!
London Fields Opening Hours: all day
Nearest Station: London Fields
Website: hackney.gov.uk/london-fields
28. Lee Valley Park
London E5 9RJ
If you’ve ever been to Stratford you’re sure to have heard of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park — but have you heard of Lee Valley Regional Park?
Created as a “green lung” for London by the houses of Parliament — the sports and leisure grounds are perfect for getting some fitness in. Between the ample running tracks, cycling routes, and white water rafting (pretty cool huh?) you’ll never be bored with a day at Lee Valley Regional Park.
Biasedly, this is where I would go for field hockey practice every week in university. So you may still find me living out some nostalgia and practicing my swing.
Lee Valley Regional Park Opening Hours: 9am-5pm
Nearest Station: Tottenham Hale
Website: leevalleypark.org.uk
29. Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Westfield Ave, London E15 2DU
One of London’s newest parks (and one of my favorites) Queen Elizabeth’s Olympic Park is a sight to see.
Built for the 2012 Olympics the park includes an Olympic stadium, aquatics center, arena, and the world’s longest slide, i.e — this is no ordinary London green space. But my favorite thing to do here will always be renting a bike and cycling across the 560 acres of royal Olympic grounds.
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Opening Hours: all day
Nearest Station: Stratford
Website: queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk
30. Bethnal Green Gardens
10 Witan St, Bethnal Green, London E2 6FG
Snuggled in Bethnal Green lies the loved neighborhood garden — Bethnal Green Gardens.
If the art bug moves you, you can even join in on their Bethnal Green outdoor life drawing class.
Otherwise, the green space is best met with a picnic blanket (especially in summer when the elderflowers bloom) and a pop into the Herald Street gallery after.
Bethnal Green Gardens Opening Hours: dawn-dusk
Nearest Station: Bethnal Green
Website: towerhamlets.gov.uk/bethnal_green_gardens
31. Boundary Gardens
Arnold Circus, London E2 7JS
I found this little green space gem strolling around Shoreditch and couldn’t believe it was hiding in plain sight!
The leafy circular mould is a local hub for East Londoners to do everything from catch up along the benches to some personal training in the pavilion.
Boundary Gardens Opening Hours: all day
Nearest Station: Shoreditch High Street
Website: londongardenstrust.org
Read More: 19 Best Things to do in Shoreditch
32. Epping Forest
Epping Forest Visitor Centre, High Beach, IG10 4AE
Did you know London had its own forest?
Straddling between Essex and London — Epping Forest is an oasis of open space dating back to Tudor times! A Site of Special Scientific Interest, you can have plenty of fun exploring the 500+ species of plants and wildlife.
Epping Forest Opening Hours: all day
Nearest Station: Chingford (from Liverpool station)
Website: visiteppingforest.org
Best Parks and Gardens in South London
33. Battersea Park
Battersea, London SW11 4NJ
Just south of Hyde Park you’ll find one of London’s quirkiest green spaces — Battersea Park.
Opened in 1858 by Queen Victoria the area comes with as much history as it does things to do. With an interesting mix of a Buddhist Peace Pagoda, duck pond, bike hires, old English gardens, running tracks, and cafés, you’ll never run short of things to do in Battersea Park.
Battersea Park Opening Hours: 8am-10pm
Nearest Station: Battersea Park
Website: wandsworth.gov.uk/batterseapark
34. Greenwich Park
Greenwich, London SE10 8QY
There is so much to do in Greenwich Park, but I’ll make it quick. Have a tea break at Pavillion Cafe, catch a glimpse at the Deer Park, roam the Flower Garden (it’s so magical), catch the Bridgerton house and simply take in scenery.
After my visit, Greenwich Park has definitely gone up on my list of London parks (Update: It’s officially my favorite) so don’t be afraid to leave some extra time to really see it all.
Greenwich Park Opening Hours: 6:00am – varying closing times (usually dusk)
Nearest Stations: Cutty Sark, Greenwich
Website: royalparks.org.uk/greenwich-park
Read More: 12 Best Things to do in Greenwich, London
35. Richmond Park
TW10 5HS, London
A sprawling 2500 acres of deep woodlands, ancient trees, rolling hills and lush gardens you could easily spend hours (or days) exploring all the grounds have to offer.
Dating back to 1272, Richmond Park was originally known as the “Manor of Sheen” named by Edward I, but Henry VII decided it was time for a rebrand, adaptly naming the Richmond Park we see today.
Unlike many green spaces, Richmond Park is somewhat stuck in time. Everything from the roaming deer (formerly Charles I hunting grounds) to pristine ponds has been preserved from Victorian times — talk about a walk through history! So if you ever find yourself in South West London, don’t miss a chance to visit.
Richmond Park Opening Hours: 7:00 (7:30am winter) to dusk for cars, otherwise 7:30am to 8:00pm
Nearest Station: Richmond
Website: royalparks.org.uk/richmond-park
Read More: 5 Magic Things to do in Richmond Park
36. Bushy Park
Hampton Ct Rd, Hampton TW12 2EJ
Richmond Park’s lesser-known neighbor — Bushy Park, is well worth the visit if you ever find yourself in the area.
With plenty of grasslands, roaming deer, waterways, and famed gardens to take up the day. Be on special lookout for the Diana fountain on Chestnut Avenue.
P.S – The deer in Bushy Park unfortunately like to come to us humans for food, so be sure to stay 50 metres away at all times!
Bushy Park Opening Hours: all day (except for deer cull season)
Nearest Stations: Teddington, Hampton Wick, Hampton Court
Website: royalparks.org.uk/parks/bushy-park
37. Wimbledon Park
Home Park Rd, Wimbledon, London SW19 8AU
Who could forget Wimbledon Park? You’ve probably heard of this London green space for its famed Wimbledon Championships , but the area has so much more to offer than tennis once a year!
Housing an impressive amount of facilities including volleyball courts, adventure golf, football pitches, bowling greens, and ornamental gardens — there’s never a dull moment with a day at Wimbledon Park.
P.S – Pay a visit to their park neighbor — Wimbledon & Putney Commons while you’re there!
Wimbledon Park Opening Hours: 8am-dusk
Nearest Station: Wimbledon
Website: merton.gov.uk/wimbledon-park
38. Crystal Palace Park
Thicket Rd, London SE19 2GA
A South London treasure Crystal Palace Park is one of London’s more quirky green spaces — with a Dinosaur Island filled with 33 life-sized reptiles that may or may not leave you a little spooked.
After being destroyed by a fire in 1936, Crystal Palace rebuilt itself into 200 acres of cherished South London green space.
Crystal Palace Park Opening Hours: 7:30am-8:30pm
Nearest Station: Crystal Palace
Website: bromley.gov.uk/crystal_palace_park
39. Brockwell Park
Brockwell Park, Brockwell Park Gardens, London SE24 9BJ
If you’re in the mood some for cycling and sunbathing — head to Brockwell Park. Just South of Brixton you’ll find this 125 acre green space and one of the best views of Central London from the hilltop.
With a series of ancient oaks, meadows, lakes, rare birds (and bats) it’s the perfect pit stop for a day in South London.
Brockwell Park Opening Hours: 7:30am-dusk
Nearest Stations: Brixton, Clapham North, Denmark Hill
Website: lambeth.gov.uk/brockwell-park
40. Beddington Park
Church Road, Wallington, Sutton, SM6 7NN
Dating back to the Bronze age Beddington Park is one of London’s oldest green spaces, and a sight of archeological interest.
In fact, it’s thought that a Roman villa once stood on the grounds! Although it started as a deer park the area is now very human-friendly — with all the facilities, garden space, and ancient woodlands you could ask for.
Beddington Park Opening Hours: 8:00am-dusk
Nearest Station: Hackbridge
Website: sutton.gov.uk/beddington-park
41. Streatham Common
Streatham Common, Streatham Common S, London SW16 3BX
As Naomi’s Campbell’s original stomping grounds I can’t promise celebrity sightings in Streatham Common…but I can’t not promise it either.
Anyways, a visit here would most likely include a walk down The Rookery — filled with ancient cedar trees, and a lovely English Garden inspired by the Sissinghurst Castle.
Streatham Common Opening Hours: all day
Nearest Station: Streatham Common
Website: lambeth.gov.uk/parks/streatham-common
42. Horniman Museum & Gardens
100 London Rd, Forest Hill, London SE23 3PQ
One of London’s best kept secrets Horniman Museum & Gardens is the perfect place for unwinding — and learning a bit of history.
Originally the personal museum to the Horniman family, Frederick Horniman created the museum as a means to bring people from every background to learn the art of global craftsmanship and creativity.
But whether you’re visiting the museum or simply keen on the garden — you’re sure to have a lovely day, surrounded by 16 acres of beautiful architecture, wildlife and sweeping views of London.
Horniman Museum & Gardens Opening Hours: 7:15am-5:50pm
Nearest Station: Forest Hill
Website: horniman.ac.uk
43. Dulwich Park
College Rd, Dulwich, London SE21
For South London’s best picnic spot, look no further than Dulwich Park. The Green Flag winning park was one of Queen Mary’s favorite green spaces.
Popular amongst locals and cyclists you can spend the day in their table tennis, gym, cricket, bowling, and football vicinities, have a picnic, or follow the lovely Dulwich Park trail.
Dulwich Park Opening Hours: 8am-6:30pm
Nearest Station: Dulwich Park, Overhill Road
Website: southwark.gov.uk/dulwich-park
44. Morden Park
Lower Morden Ln, Morden SM4, UK
A dog-friendly park and a spring favorite amongst Londoners, Morden Hall Park is an oasis of wildlife and classic landscape — founded by Octavia Hill of the National Trust — on a mission to make the perfect ‘open-air sitting rooms for city dwellers’ (which in modern day I’m sure just means a really nice park).
Morden Park Opening Hours: 10am-4pm
Nearest Station: Morden
Website: nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park
45. Peckham Rye Park and Common
4 Straker’s Rd, London SE15 3UA
Standing the test of time (since 14th century!) Peckham Rye Park is a cherished hub of green space for South Londoners. Filled with community events, 113 acres of green space and an adventure playground open all-year round.
Peckham Rye Park and Commons Opening Hours: 7:30am-6:30pm
Nearest Stations: East Dulwich, Peckham Rye
Website: peckhamryepark.org
46. Mitcham Commons
Croydon Rd, Mitcham CR4 1HT
It’s not everyday a park doubles an ecology centre. With a heap of rare grassland and habitats — Mitcham Commons is on a mission to conserve wildlife, and encourage more Londoners to explore the outdoors.
The 7 island ponds are quite fascinating, and you can pop into the ecology centre to learn more about the wildlife on the grounds.
Mitcham Commons Opening Hours: all day, Ecology centre 10-4pm on weekdays (near Mitcham Junction station)
Nearest Station: Mitcham Junction
Website: merton.gov.uk/mitcham-common
47. Sydenham Hill Woods
Dulwich, London SE26 6LT
If you’re up for an alternative London park experience — Sydenham Hill Woods might be more up your alley.
A wooded area stretching from Deptford to Selhurst and the largest remains of Great North Wood, you’ll find over 200 species and wildlife here from rare insects to questionably colored birds.
Sydenham Hill Woods Opening Hours: all day
Nearest Station: Sydenham Hill
Website: wildlondon.org.uk/sydenham-hill-woods
Best Parks and Gardens in West London
48. Chiswick House and Gardens
Burlington Ln, Chiswick, London W4 2RP
Adding onto South London estates we’ve got the ever lovely Chiswick House and Gardens.
The 18th-century villa of Lord Burlington is over 65 acres of traditional vistas, fountains, gardens, and wilderness and yes, it’s very Instagrammable.
Chiswick House and Gardens Opening Hours: 7am-dusk
Nearest Station: Turnham Green
Website: chiswickhouseandgardens.org.uk
49. Acton Park
Acton, London W3 7JX
Commemorating Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee Action Park is a community green space with tons of facilities to match.
From tennis, basketball, and football courts, to a cafe and art block, it’s perfect for a long afternoon in quiet West London.
But my particular favorite is the bowling green and pavilion (have you ever bowled outside?).
Nearest Station: Acton Town
Action Park Opening Hours: 7:30am-10pm
Website: ealing.gov.uk
50. Holland Park
Ilchester Place, W8 6LU
On the west end of Central London you’ll find the infamously beautiful — Holland Park.
One of my favorite nooks of London I cherish the days I can grab a book, hop on the Central line and find myself reading in front of Holland Park’s stunning murals and Sibirica fountain.
Home to the once Cope Castle in the 17th century the grounds transformed into a political and literary hub renamed the “Holland House”.
But after severe damage from World War II the area was reconstructed into what we see today. Be sure to visit the Japanese Kyoto Garden!
I love it so much in fact, I wrote a blog on the best things to do in Holland Park.
Holland Park Opening Hours: 7am-dawn
Nearest Station: Holland Park
Website: rbkc.gov.uk/holland-park
Read More: 5 Best Things to do in Holland Park
51. Porchester Square
29 Porchester Square, W2 6AW
The posh-de-la-posh of London parks and gardens — a day at Porchester Square would most likely include dipping into an outdoor concert or a literary event or two.
Bonus, it doubles as a library. So feel free to pop in for a rented read and flip the pages away surrounded by tulips and chestnut trees.
Porchester Square Opening Hours: 8am-dusk
Nearest Station: Royal Oak
Website: westminster.gov.uk/porchester-square
52. Westbourne Gardens
Westbourne Gardens, London W2 5NR
Surrounded by white terraced houses in the heart of Paddington — a sit-down at Westbourne Gardens is the perfect antidote to a busy West London day. N
ot much to do here outside of admiring the fig trees and pink chrysanthemums, but then again, I think that’s the point of a place like this.
Westbourne Gardens Opening Hours: 8am-dusk
Nearest Station: Westbourne Gardens
Website: westminster.gov.uk/parks-and-open-spaces/
53. Kensington Gardens
London W2 2UH
If you’re looking for a day with the royals (okay…not really) make a stroll over to Kensington Gardens.
Once a part of Hyde Park — Kensington Gardens now stands on its own accord. Kids here can be taken back in time at the Diana Memorial Playground with pirate ships inspired by Peter Pan. And for the rest of us, let’s head to the Serpentine Galleries — a hub of history, heritage, and contemporary art.
But then again, we could always find our way to the Albert Memorial, the Italian Gardens, and of course, Kensington Palace.
Kensington Gardens Opening Hours: 6am-dusk
Nearest Stations: Queensway, Bayswater, Lancaster Gate
Website: royalparks.org.uk/kensington-gardens
54. Kew Gardens
Richmond, TW9 3AF
Ending with one of my favorite London green spaces, Kew Gardens.
An award-winning botanical garden bursting with the latest botanical discoveries — a day at Kew Gardens almost feels like stepping into a different London altogether.
Between the 500 acres of woodland and famed Arboretum, you’re sure to enjoy this (very well-deserved) UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kew Gardens Opening Hours: 10am-6pm
Nearest Stations: Kew Garden
Website: kew.org
What are Royal Parks?
You may have seen the words ‘Royal Parks’ pop up throughout this article and wondered “What does that mean?”. Royal Parks, as the name suggests, are parks and gardens in possession of the monarchy.
How Many Parks and Gardens are there in London?
Under the definition of a ‘public open space’ there are 3,000 parks and gardens in London. Crazy right?
The Best Way to Find Parks & Gardens in London
Because of their size finding green spaces in London sometimes get a bit tricky. Citymapper makes routes easy to follow and has color coded maps so you can see if you’re close to a green space.
What’s my Favorite Park in London?
I’d have to say Holland Park. I love grabbing a good book (and a coffee perhaps) and taking a read in front of the Sibirica fountain. Check out my favorite things to do in Holland Park here.
What’s the Biggest Park in London?
Spanning nearly 2500 Richmond Park is the biggest green space in London!
Quick Tips for Visiting London Parks & Gardens
- Always check the individual London parks or gardens website before your visit as the hours may change last-minute.
- London parks and gardens are a great for reading, always bring a book if you can (paperback even better).
- When it’s nice, snag the opportunity! And bring a picnic blanket along to your day out.
Click here for the picnic blanket I use in Black and White.
Click here for the picnic blanket I use in Red.
Map of London’s Parks and Gardens
Color coded for Central, North, South, East and West London.
Red: Parks & Gardens in Central London
Green: Parks & Gardens in North London
Blue: Parks & Gardens in East London
Purple: Parks & Gardens in South London
Orange: Parks & Gardens in West London
Read More on London:
London Travel Tips & Inspiration
Moving to London Advice & Resources
Happy naturing,
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