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Best Parks in London
Timings, Things to do, Tips & More

Green spaces are a feature of London. The English capital has a garden, park, or field at almost every turn, making it an excellent city to live in. Locals and tourists find peace in these green spaces, but you can also go cycling or picnic. For this list, we’ve picked the best parks in London for a quick getaway from city life.

Best Parks in London

You’ll find many parks in London, but the best ones appeal to everyone, including children. Read on to find our picks.

1. Richmond Park

Sight-seeing

One of eight Royal Parks in London, Richmond Park covers 2500 acres and is a National Nature Reserve and a European Special Area of Conservation. You can go horse riding, play golf, or enjoy unbeatable views of St Paul’s Cathedral.

Hours - Open 24 hours

Location - Richmond Park, Richmond, United Kingdom. Find on map

Things to do - Horse riding, cycling, golf

Best time to visit - December to February

Entry - Free

Handy tip - Visit in winter for the sunset and the deer. Yes, the deer! Their coats change colour in winter, giving them a beautiful new look.

Transport - By tube, bus, and car.

2. Hyde Park

Leisure

Hyde Park is London’s signature green space. It is the most popular park in the city, often hosting concerts, fairs, and rallies. You can also visit to swim, enjoy rides, or do nothing.

Hours - 5 AM to 12 AM (Everyday)

Location - Hyde Park, London, United Kingdom. Find on map

Things to do - Swimming, boating, walking

Best time to visit - March to May

Entry - Free

Handy tip - While summers are fun at Hyde Park, winters see the arrival of Winter Wonderland. It’s an annual Christmas event where you can enjoy thrilling rides.

Transport - By tube, rail, and bus.

3. Greenwich Park

Sight-seeing

Greenwich Park is a historic parkland extending over hundreds of acres. Its history dates back to Roman times, making it an excellent location to study London’s history.

Hours - 6 AM to 9 PM (Everyday)

Location - London SE10 8QY, United Kingdom. Find on map

Things to do - Explore gardens and museums, walking, boating

Best time to visit - June to July

Entry - Free

Handy tip - You can bring your dog to Greenwich Park. However, they must be kept on a lead and may not be allowed in every area.

Transport - By bus, train, and tube.

4. Crystal Palace Park

Sight-seeing and recreation

South East London is home to Crystal Palace Park, where you can relax, enjoy, and learn about the history of Crystal Palace. Statues of prehistoric monsters are spread across Crystal Palace Park, making your walks fun and educational.

Hours - 7:30 AM to 8:30 PM (Monday to Friday), 9 AM to 8:30 PM (Saturday and Sunday)

Location - Thicket Rd, London SE19 2GA, United Kingdom. Find on map

Things to do - Skating, swimming, exploring the maze

Best time to visit - May to June

Entry - Free

Handy tip - The Crystal Palace Museum is a treasure trove you shouldn’t miss. It explores the history of Hyde Park and Sydenham Crystal Palace.

Transport - By train, bus, and car.

5. Waterlow Park

Scenic

Waterlow Park wasn’t always a public area. It was the private estate of Sydney Waterlow, a British philanthropist. In 1889, he donated it to the London County Council. Today, the park is popular among locals and tourists for spotting wildlife like bats, woodpeckers, and hedgehogs.

Hours - 7:30 AM to 9 PM (Everyday)

Location - Highgate Hl, London N6 5HG, United Kingdom. Find on map

Things to do - Play tennis, explore cafés, check out artworks

Best time to visit - March to May

Entry - Free

Handy tip - You can hire the Lauderdale House, overlooking Waterlow Park, for weddings, parties, and events.

Transport - By bus, train, and tube.

6. Hampstead Heath

Scenic

Catch amazing views of London city at Hampstead Heath, a public area just four miles off Trafalgar Square. Some of London’s highest points, including Parliament Hill and Golders Hill Park, are part of Hampstead Heath.

Hours - Open 24 hours

Location - Hampstead Heath, London, United Kingdom. Find on map

Things to do - Cycling, swimming, sunbathing

Best time to visit - June to August

Entry - Free

Handy tip - Swimming is fun in Hampstead Heath’s pools unless you can’t withstand freezing water. Expect it to be cold even in the summer.

Transport - By tube and bus.

Tips for Visiting Parks in London

1. Entry is usually free in most parks in London. However, you may have to pay for parking if you bring your vehicles.

2. You can get your own food but avoid littering.

3. Depending on the park you visit, you might be able to hire a bicycle. Check the park’s website before visiting.

4. Ensure you return the bicycle in proper condition as you may have to pay for any damage.

5. Clothing is important, and so is an umbrella. London has unpredictable weather.

6. Watch out for wildlife as they may pop out of anywhere.

7. Follow the dress code when using public pools inside parks.

London Travel Tips

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Parks in London

What are the best parks in London?

Richmond Park, Greenwich Park, and Hampstead Heath are among the best parks in London you should visit.

Which is the most beautiful park in London?

Every park in London has its charm. Hyde Park and Greenwich Park are among the most beautiful parks in London.

What is the most popular park in London?

Hyde Park, Waterlow Park, and Hampstead Heath are a few popular parks in London.

What is the best park in London to visit with family?

All parks in London are great for a day out with family. Richmond Park, Hyde Park, and Crystal Palace Park are some London parks you can visit.

What are the free parks in London?

Richmond Park, Hyde Park, and Hampstead Heath are the best free parks in London.

What are the top things to do at parks in London?

Swimming, cycling, reading history, and watching wildlife are the top things to do at parks in London.

What are the most famous parks in London?

Richmond Park, Hyde Park, and Greenwich Park are some famous parks in London.

What are the best parks in London to have a picnic?

Picnic is a popular activity in all parks in London. Visit Greenwich Park, Waterlow Park, and Hampstead Heath for an unforgettable picnic experience.

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