Best Parks in London: A Local’s Guide to Green Escapes in the City

London might be a fast-paced capital, but it’s also one of the greenest cities in the world. Scattered between historic landmarks and buzzing neighbourhoods, the city’s parks offer everything from boating lakes to deer sightings, rose gardens to wild swimming.

Whether you’re visiting for a few days or setting up for longer, exploring London’s iconic parks is a must—and at Roote Travel, we believe there’s no better way to experience the city like a local.

Here’s your guide to the best parks in London, what makes each one special, and how to get there by train or tube.

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Regent's Canal

Regent’s Park – Rose Gardens, Boating & Canal Walks

Just north of Oxford Circus, Regent’s Park offers a perfect blend of elegance and activities. The Queen Mary’s Rose Garden is one of the most beautiful in the city, with over 12,000 roses in bloom during late spring and summer. There’s also a lake for pedal boating, plenty of green space for picnics, and access to London Zoo and the Regent’s Canal—ideal for a scenic stroll toward Camden or Little Venice.

Highlights:

• Queen Mary’s Rose Garden

• Boating lake and pedalos

• Open-air theatre in summer

• Close to London Zoo & canal walks

Nearest stations:

• Regent’s Park (Bakerloo Line)

• Great Portland Street (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan)

• Camden Town (Northern Line – 15 min walk)

The Serpentine, Hyde Park

Hyde Park – Boating, Wild Swimming & Serene Walks

As one of London’s largest and most famous parks, Hyde Park has it all—lakes, sculptures, memorials, and even opportunities for wild swimming. The Serpentine Lake offers rowboats and a lido for summer swims, and the Italian Gardens are perfect for a peaceful wander. It’s also home to the Diana Memorial Fountain, Speakers’ Corner, and seasonal events like Winter Wonderland.

Highlights:

• Serpentine Lake (boating & lido)

• Diana Memorial Fountain

• Italian Gardens

• Seasonal events and concerts

Nearest stations:

• Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly Line)

• Lancaster Gate (Central Line)

• Marble Arch (Central Line)

• Knightsbridge (Piccadilly Line)

View of White Hall from St James Park

St James’s Park – Royal Views & a Peaceful Escape

Tucked next to Buckingham Palace, St James’s Park is one of London’s most picturesque green spaces. With its central lake, charming bridge and resident pelicans (!), it’s a peaceful haven in the heart of Westminster. This is where locals come to escape the bustle with a coffee, and it offers unbeatable views of the palace and Horse Guards Parade.

Highlights:

• Views of Buckingham Palace

• Central lake with resident pelicans

• Ideal for a peaceful break between sightseeing

Nearest stations:

• St James’s Park (District & Circle Lines)

• Westminster (Jubilee, District & Circle)

• Green Park (Piccadilly, Jubilee, Victoria Lines)

Kyoto Garden, Holland Park

Holland Park – Tranquillity & Japanese Gardens

A lesser-known gem tucked beside Kensington, Holland Park is elegant, quiet, and full of surprises. It’s home to the Kyoto Garden, a peaceful Japanese garden complete with koi fish, waterfalls and peacocks. There’s also a large adventure playground, woodlands, and open green lawns for relaxing.

Highlights:

• Kyoto Garden (Japanese koi pond)

• Adventure playground for children

• Wildlife including peacocks

Nearest stations:

• Holland Park (Central Line)

• High Street Kensington (District & Circle Lines) – 10 min walk

Peace Pagoda, Battersea Park

Battersea Park – Riverside Views & Contemporary Cool

On the south side of the Thames, Battersea Park offers open lawns, a lake with boating, riverside views, and a small zoo. Its proximity to Battersea Power Station means you can pair your park walk with a visit to stylish restaurants, shops and bars inside one of London’s most impressive redevelopments.

Highlights:

• Riverside walk along the Thames

• Boating lake & Go Ape adventure park

• Art gallery and small zoo

• Close to Battersea Power Station shopping & dining

Nearest stations:

• Battersea Power Station (Northern Line)

• Queenstown Road (National Rail)

• Sloane Square (District & Circle Lines – 15 min walk via Chelsea Bridge)

Boating Lake, Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park – History, Views & Maritime Charm

For panoramic views over London’s skyline, Greenwich Park is unbeatable. It's one of the city’s oldest royal parks and home to the Royal Observatory, Prime Meridian Line, and

Greenwich Market. Expect deer, sweeping lawns, and a mix of historic and maritime architecture. It’s also close to the Cutty Sark, a 19th-century sailing ship now open as a museum.

Highlights:

• Panoramic views over Canary Wharf & the Thames

• Royal Observatory & Meridian Line

• Historic architecture & open lawns

• Close to Greenwich Market & Cutty Sark

Nearest stations:

• Greenwich (DLR & National Rail)

• Cutty Sark (DLR)

A stag at Richmond Park

Richmond Park – Wild Deer & Countryside in the City

Richmond Park feels like you’ve left London entirely. It’s massive—one of the largest enclosed parks in Europe—and famous for its herds of wild deer. Perfect for cycling, walking, or long weekend rambles. The Isabella Plantation, a botanical garden inside the park, is a hidden highlight in spring.

Highlights:

• Wild deer roaming freely

• Isabella Plantation (beautiful in spring)

• Sweeping countryside views & woodland walks

• Ideal for picnics, photography, cycling

Nearest stations:

• Richmond (District Line, Overground & National Rail)

• Kingston (South Western Railway – walk or take a bus)

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Final Thoughts: London’s Parks, Roote's Way

Whether you’re after boating in the heart of the city or spotting deer in a wild green expanse, London’s parks let you step into nature without leaving the city. At Roote Travel, we believe that your holiday should include these peaceful moments of calm and beauty—because luxury isn't always a price tag, sometimes it’s a rose garden in bloom.

📍 Roote Tip: Combine parks with nearby cafés, museums, or markets for the perfect local day out. Keep an eye on our London guides for itineraries and tips on where to eat, walk and wander.