We all know going for walk is good for us now and then, or every day (if that’s your thing), so here we have compiled a list of a few of our favourite outdoor spaces in London. If you’re looking for spaces to go for a run, have a picnic, to read, sit and think, go on a long walk, a small or a big space, busy or secluded, for cold or hot weather- there is something for all occasions here. Delve deep into this list and explore a little bit more of London.

The information contained in this post represents the views and opinions of the authors and does not necessarily represent the views or the opinions of UCL.

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1. Hyde Park

The obligatory Hyde Park- how could it not be on this list? There are 350 acres of gardens and paths to explore, green spaces to sit and enjoy, the Serpentine lake to boat or swim in, you can join joggers or cyclists and enjoy the park at a quicker pace, stop at the numerous cafés or enjoy the art in the Serpentine Galleries. And if that wasn’t enough, Hyde Park is buzzing with activity on Sunday mornings at Speaker’s Corner, the park is in a prime central location, close to some of London’s biggest museums (hello Natural History and V&A museums to a name a few!) and of course there is the famous Winter Wonderland event- just to name one of many exciting events held there. Find out more information at the Hyde Park website here.

2. Hampstead Heath

If you want somewhere a bit more wild, Hampstead Heath is 800 acres of green, offering a peaceful escape from the city, with the heath’s rolling hills, woodland walks, variety of wildlife and wild-swimming ponds. It also has breathtaking views of the city’s skyline (Parliament Hill), multiple cosy cafés, and you can visit Kenwood House (an English Site) for something else to explore. This park is the epitome of a lazy walk haven, where a ramble on a grey day is almost superior to one on a sunny day. Don’t forget to venture into Hampstead itself, which is elegant and so unlike the non-stop city centre. Visit Hampstead Heath’s website for more information on upcoming events and take a look this map to discover what there is to explore.

3. Primrose Hill

A rival to the views at Hampstead Heath, Primrose Hill might boast possibly one of the best views of the city’s skyline in London. Just a short walk from Regent’s Park, Primrose Hill is a little climb for a big reward. Not only can you sit and enjoy the views with a book or a picnic, it’s not far to walk to the bustling and vibrant Camden, explore Regent’s Park below, or even visit London Zoo. Take a look at Primrose Hill’s website for more information.

4. Greenwich Park

Another park with dazzling views. Greenwich is a bit of a trek out of London, but it’s worth it for the incredible view of the financial district of the city, as well as the stunning architecture and wealth of history to explore. You can climb to the top of the hill and visit the Prime Meridian Line (the reference point of Greenwich Mean Time), or explore more in the Royal Observatory or National Maritime Museum. There are also gardens to wander through, a café to grab a snack at and you can even here music flowing from the windows of the University buildings at the edge of the Thames. Visit the Greenwich Park website for more information.

5. Richmond Park

A short journey from London, you will find Richmond park, with sprawling grounds and brimming with wildlife. This park is full of ancient trees, rare species of fungi and insects, wildflowers and, of course, deer. This park offers a bit more than your average stroll, instead you can enjoy long walks, take a look around at viewing points (King Henry’s Mound), enjoy bites to eat at the Lodge or cafés, or even have a go at power kiting, horse riding, or simply hire a bike to take around. For more information visit the park’s website.

6. Holland Park

Holland Park boasts 22.5 hectares of a variety of gardens, including a café, woodland areas, and the Holland Park Ecology Centre. The star of Holland Park is possibly the Kyoto Garden, with beautiful changing colours throughout the seasons. The Japanese-style design creates a space for relaxation and reflection. The Ecology Centre offers a space to learn about the local natural environment, and even offers exciting seasonal events like butterfly identification walks, nighttime bat walks or fungi forays. Visit the park’s website for more information.

7. Crystal Palace Park

This park offers a bit more than just a walk. Besides the 80 hectares of beautiful grounds to wander through, you can also explore the iconic dinosaur trail, get lost (hopefully not for long) in the maze, take a boat out onto the lake, expand your knowledge at the Crystal Palace Museum and even take a look at the park farm. Visit the park’s website for more information and upcoming events.

8. Hampstead Hill Garden and Pergola

Commissioned by Lord Lerverhulme, this deserted garden terrace has transformed from an extravagant party destination to a mystical terrace reclaimed by nature. The backdrop of faded beauty of the brick arches and stone columns, slowly consumed by the vibrant leaves of nature, creates a beautiful spot of tranquility to spend a walk admiring. For more information, visit the garden’s website.

9. Highgate Wood

This ancient woodland nature reserve, full of oak, hornbeam and beech trees, as well as a diverse range of woodland flowers and birds, is a peaceful haven for walks and runs. Immerse yourself in the trees and explore the paths, have a quick stop at the café or learn about your surroundings at the wildlife centre. Across the road you can find Queen’s Wood to continue along on your exploration. This park is a bit further out, but the peace and tranquility is well worth the journey. Visit the woodland’s website for more information.

10. Barnsbury Wood Nature Reserve

Fancy something a bit smaller? Like, really, really small? Why not take a stroll around London’s smallest nature reserve? With 0.35 hectares of woodland and wildlife garden, this little hidden gem, a bus ride away from UCL, is the perfect spot to escape into some nature for a while. Find out more at the reserve’s website.

11. Regents Canal (Little Venice)

Little Venice is an oasis amid the hubbub. Grand mansions create a classic and graceful background surrounding the Regents canal, which is lined with narrow boats and floating cafés. This spot is quaint and peaceful, however, you can venture further and walk from Little Venice (in Paddington) along the canal towards Camden Lock. This is a peaceful walk, but has plenty to catch your eye, along with pubs, cafés and many picturesque spots along the way. Visit the Canal and River Trust’s website for information on Little Venice, and take a look at this map for an idea of the 2 mile walking route.

12. Southbank

Walking along the Southbank provides opportunities to see some of the major London sights, as well as walk past a variety of cafés, museums, restaurants and architecture. This stretch of the city is vibrant and eye-catching everywhere you look, and though a lot more urban than a woodland walk, it still provides a sense of calm taking in all that is around you in the city centre. On the Southbank you can do a 4 mile (around 2 hours at a very leisurely pace) walk (the Queen’s walk) starting from Tower Bridge and ending Lambeth Bridge (or vice versa). This walk includes walking past City Hall, The Shard, Borough Market, Winchester Palace, The Tate Modern, The National Theatre, The London Eye and much more. Take a look at this website for more information on the Queen’s Walk.