The 7 Best Parks in London

Being the largest city in the UK, London is busy and bustling with shoppers, commuters, sightseers and tourists. If you’re used to a more laid-back lifestyle, you may be searching for somewhere in London where you can relax – behold London’s parks. London is home to numerous parks, most of which are culturally significant, host an abundance of attractions and historic sights, and have vast open spaces where people can sit, relax or stroll. And don’t worry about getting bored – these parks effortlessly combine the laid-back lifestyle with fun-filled days out, being the sites of regular events and entertainment. Let’s take a look at the top 7 best parks in London.

1. Hyde Park

Arguably the most-visited, loved and well-known park in the capital, Hyde Park is surely high up on your London itinerary. The park’s vast open green spaces are perfect for sitting, relaxing and taking in the sights. Lake Serpentine hosts an abundance of watersports, boating and pedalo excursions and lakeside activities. Vibrant, colourful roses bloom in the spring and summer in the park’s Rose Garden, and annual music concerts, events and live entertainment take place in the park, from its Winter Wonderland fair to its BST music festival. 

2. Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park’s long history, royal status and stunning London skyscraper views place it high up in many Londoners’ and tourists' list of favourite parks in the capital. The National Maritime Museum is connected to the park, helping to uphold the park’s cultural heritage and significance. In the spring, beautiful cherry blossom trees line the paths and walkways, and the park’s resident Flower Garden bursts into colour. History or culture enthusiasts will feel right at home in this park, with its Roman ruins and Saxon burial mounds. The park also has a Royal Observatory, where you can enjoy even more stunning 360° views of the city’s business district. 

3. Kensington Gardens 

From its whimsical Peter Pan Statue to its charming fountains and Italian Gardens, Kensington Gardens is definitely one of the most naturally beautiful parks in the capital. It has something that is suited for every type of visitor. The park also has royal associations, with the large Prince Albert Memorial and Queen Victoria Statue opposite Kensington Palace. The park is perfect for kids, too, with a playground featuring a large wooden pirate ship and play equipment.  The Serpentine Art Gallery showcase wonderful art and architecture exhibitions, too.

4. Hampstead Heath

Rivalling Greenwich Park as the best park to see panoramic views of London’s beautiful skyline, Hampstead Heath is one of the capital’s best-loved parks. The park is famous for its outdoor Lido pool and wild swimming ponds that are perfect for cooling off during the summer months, and its Parliament Hill peak offers the best views of some of London’s most iconic skyscrapers and buildings. Hampstead Heath is also known for its meadows and walking trails, so bring along your dog and enjoy a peaceful and scenic stroll away from the bustling streets of London. 

5. St James Park

Made famous by its lakes and waterways that house a number of bird and wildlife species, its stunning scenery and natural beauty and shaded tree-lined walkways, St James Park is the perfect escape. One of the best things about this park is its proximity to Westminster and more of London’s prime tourist streets and areas, making it easily accessible to city-goers searching for peace and quiet in the busy city. The park is also known for its ceremonial and royal events that occur regularly, from the King’s Birthday Celebration Parade to the jubilee events, making it one of the most culturally significant parks in the city. It’s a place where tourists can truly immerse themselves in English culture. 

6. Battersea Park

Battersea Park is a multi-functional and versatile green space that is well-loved by both Londoners and tourists. If you have children, this is the perfect oasis for them to let their imaginations run wild, thanks to the adventure play area and zoo that this park features. The park is also perfect for adults too. Rent a pedalo or hop aboard a boat across the lake, walk or bike along the promenade, play a variety of sports, or enjoy a hearty meal at the Pear Tree Cafe. Battersea Park also hosts the Pump House Gallery, which is an art gallery and exhibition space, where you can enjoy the best works of art and other paraphernalia. 

7. Victoria Park

One of the oldest parks in the capital, Victoria Park is the perfect oasis for nature lovers, with its large lake featuring innovative sculptures, fountains, pagodas and open green spaces. This park rivals even that of Hyde Park, with millions of visitors each year and a reputation as one of the city’s best-loved parks. Take a picnic or eat in the Pavilion Cafe, partake in boating trips or watersports, go bird watching or fishing or simply enjoy the natural beauty– the choice is yours. Colloquially known as Vicky Park among locals, the space is famed for its annual event and music festival hosting, so it’s a good idea to time your trip to London to coincide with these events if you want to experience them.