The Best 15 London Parks & Gardens to Explore

In a sprawling metropolis like London, gardens, parks, and other green spaces offer peace, tranquillity, and welcome respite from the hustle and bustle. Whether you’re looking for a few moments of calm and recollection or you’re a nature lover who prefers plants to crowds of people, you won’t want to miss out on the best parks in London.

However, the best parks in London aren’t all large, famous ones. Some of them are among the British capital’s hidden gems and best-kept secrets. From Royal green spaces to small sanctuaries, these are some of our favourite gardens and parks in London: 

1. Hyde Park

Arguably the most famous park in London, Hyde Park is one of the largest Royal Parks, spanning across 350 acres. Located in the central London borough of Westminster, the park forms a chain between Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace and opened to the public in the 1700s.

The iconic park offers something for the whole family, including tennis courts, a sports ground, the Princess Diana memorial fountain, a playground, and the Serpentine Lake where you can rent a paddleboat and glide across its shimmering waters. The tree-lined paths, reminiscent of New York’s famous Central Park, make for a great date spot in London to go for a stroll with a cup of tea or coffee.

Location: London W2 2UH, UK

2. Alexandra Park

Alexandra Park stands as an enchanting green sanctuary, offering an escape from the hustle of city life since 1863. Nestled in north London, this expansive 200-acre park is centred around an iconic hill, providing panoramic view of London’s skyline, featuring landmarks such as The Shard and the London Eye.

Renowned for its diverse wildlife, Alexandra Park has become a haven for nature enthusiasts in London. Boasting over 600 varieties of plants, animals, and fungi, including 212 types of insects and 26 types of arachnids, it presents a thriving ecosystem. The park's tranquil lake, enveloped by lush greenery, serves as a habitat for various bird species, contributing to the area's peaceful ambiance.

Visitors to Alexandra Park can wander along well maintained pathways, ideal for leisurely strolls or jogging, enjoy breezy picnics, and go paddle boarding on the serene lake.

Location: London N22 7AY, UK

3. Green Park

Located in central London, just across from Buckingham Palace, Green Park stands as the smallest among the city's eight Royal Parks. Once a swampy area, it was transformed from a hunting ground for Henry VIII to a cherished royal park.

Green Park is renowned for its vast open spaces, lush lawns, and mature trees providing ample shade. The park’s peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal place for a leisurely walk, a picnic with friends, or simply basking in the sun on the grass.

Beyond its charm as a leisure spot, Green Park also offers a scenic route for joggers and runners. The park's rich history and serene beauty make it a must-visit location for those seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of London.

Location: London SW1A 1BW, UK

4. Regent’s Park

Regent’s Park stands as a true urban oasis, spanning 410 acres of refined gardens, beautiful open spaces, and an elegant boating lake in West London. Originally intended as a royal retreat for the Prince Regent, later King George IV, this exquisite space has transformed into a beloved public park, famous for its scenic beauty and diverse attractions.

Regent’s Park is also home to London Zoo, one of the most popular attractions in the capital. As the world's oldest zoo, it houses over 18,000 animals of over 750 species, ranging from majestic lions to graceful flamingos and playful gorillas. Beyond the zoo, visitors can explore Queen Mary’s Gardens, where over 12,000 roses are on display. Additionally, the park boasts a picturesque Boating Lake and the Open Air Theatre, an alfresco riverside cinema showcasing a variety of blockbuster films.

Location: London SW11 4NJ, UK

5. Kensington Gardens

Kensington Gardens stands as a captivating oasis in London, popular with visitors and locals alike. Spanning 265 acres, these enchanting gardens are home to the iconic Kensington Palace, the offices and residences of The Prince and Princess of Wales, The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, The Duke and Duchess of Kent and Prince and Princess Michael of Kent. As you wander through the park, you’ll stand in awe of the palace's architecture.

You’ll also see the famous Peter Pan statue here, situated west of the Long Water. Its precise location was chosen by J.M. Barrie, the author of Peter Pan, who lived near Kensington Gardens and drew inspiration from the park. The park is also home to the renowned Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground, featuring a wooden pirate ship where thousands of children play each year. Be sure to explore the Albert Memorial in the park as well. This high gothic-style monument commemorates the death of Prince Albert in 1861 and stands as one of London's most iconic landmarks.

Location: London W2 2UH, UK

6. Primrose Hill

For awe-inspiring panoramic views of London's iconic skyline, look no further than Primrose Hill. Located in the Borough of Camden, famous renowned green space encompasses a 210 ft natural hill, offering splendid views of landmarks like the Shard, the London Eye, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

The park itself is a haven of tranquillity, boasting rolling green slopes and picturesque pathways. It is a favoured spot for picnics, where visitors can unwind, absorb the atmosphere, and enjoy a leisurely meal.

Primrose Hill also hosts a vibrant community of wildlife, with various bird species and playful squirrels frolicking amidst the trees. Following your park visit, venture out to explore the adjacent Primrose Hill village—a charming hub adorned with cafes, boutiques, and pubs.

Location: Primrose Hill Park, Primrose Hill Road, Camden, London, UK

7. Holland Park and Kyoto Garden

If you want to avoid the bustling crowds of tourists in London, Holland Park is the place to go. Popular among London locals, this 54-acre public park unfolds with enchanting gardens, dense woodlands, and a captivating array of mammals, birds, and insects, including peacocks. Furthermore, Holland Park boasts a picturesque open-air theatre, hosting live performances and concerts during the summer months.

A highlight of Holland Park is the widely admired Kyoto Garden, one of the hidden gems among the best gardens to visit in London. This park within a park was a gift by the Japanese city of Kyoto to commemorate the long friendship between the United Kingdom and Japan. Designed in the ‘kaiyushiki’ (‘stroll garden’) style, Kyoto Garden features, a bridge, stone lanterns, vibrant red Japanese maple trees and a serene koi pond.

Location: Ilchester Pl, London W8 6LU, UK

8. Kew Gardens

It’s not technically a park, but Kew Gardens in southwest London is one of the world’s largest and most diverse botanical and mycological collections. If you’re choosing only one of the best parks to see in London, make it Kew Gardens. A visit to Kew is a glorious day out, you could go every week of the year and discover something new every time.

This botanic garden was founded in 1840. In addition to the many planted areas, Kew Gardens boasts the Alpine House, Nash Conservatory, Orangery, Palm House, Princess of Wales Conservatory, Temperate House, Waterlily House, Evolution House, Bonsai House, various ornamental buildings, a treetop walkway, and a lake crossing. If you need any more convincing, consider that Kew Gardens is one of only four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in London.

Location: Richmond, London TW9 3AE, UK 

9. Greenwich Park

A former hunting park and now home to some of the capital’s most iconic views, Greenwich Park is one of the oldest and largest single green spaces in southeast London. The park is on two levels, with numerous dips and gullies between them. The lower level near the National Maritime Museum and the Thames is to the north, while the upper southern part of the park is a flat expanse, which is an enclosed part of the Blackheath plateau.

The Royal Observatory, where you’ll find the Prime Meridian, is at the top of the hill in the centre of the park. Wander through one of the best gardens in London and find the Saxon barrow cemetery, Queen Caroline’s Bath, the Flower, Herb, and Rose gardens, and much more.

Location: London SE10 8QY, UK

10. St James's Park

St James’s Park is the oldest of the royal parks in the heart of ceremonial London. The park meets Green Park at Queen’s Gardens opposite the Buckingham Palace entrance. Once a marshy area, the park was transformed into a deer park by King Henry VIII and later redesigned into a formal garden by King Charles II.

You’ll find a lake with two islands in the park, namely West Island and Duck Island, as well as the Swire and Tiffany fountains and other features. Be sure to enjoy the view of the palace from the Blue Bridge across the lake in one of the finest gardens to visit in London.

Location: London SW1A 2BJ, UK

11. Victoria Park

Known to locals as Vicky Park, Victoria Park is the oldest public park in Britain. This beautiful green space
opened in 1845 for the benefit of the East End’s working class, is often referred to as the “People’s Park” and remains one of the most visited parks in the capital.

Wandering through the park is worth it, as you’ll come across decorative gardens, wilder natural areas, open grassland, historic artifacts and features, playgrounds, a skate park and sporting facilities such as tennis courts and football pitches.

Location: Grove Road, Tower Hamlets, East London E3 5SN, UK

12. The Rookery

An attractive formal garden between Streatham, Norbury, and West Norwood, the Rookery is another well-kept-secret among the best parks in London. This Grade II Listed Historic Garden features herbaceous and wildflower beds, the Old English Garden, the White Garden, an orchard and community garden, ornamental and native hedges, and a cascade of ornamental ponds. Rich in wildlife, the Rookery and the larger Streatham Common were declared a Local Nature Reserve in 2013.

Location: London SW16 3BX, UK

13.  Richmond Park 

Visiting Richmond Park from London is a wonderful experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park, which covers a vast area of over 2,500 acres, is located in the borough of Richmond upon Thames, just a short distance from central London. With its sprawling greenery, tranquil lakes, and diverse wildlife, it offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the park's numerous walking trails, go cycling, or even go horseback riding.

The park is also home to over 600 deer, which roam freely throughout the park and can be spotted grazing on the grasslands. In addition, there are several historic sites within the park, including Pembroke Lodge and the Isabella Plantation. Overall, Richmond Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the city and enjoy a day in the great outdoors.

Location: Richmond

14. Hampstead Heath

This park, which spans over 790 acres, is located in the north of London and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding cityscape. Hampstead Heath boasts of a diverse landscape with hills, ponds, and woodlands, making it a haven for nature lovers and hikers alike.

Visitors can explore the park's many walking trails or take a dip in the popular bathing ponds, which are open all year round. The heath is also home to some of London's best-known landmarks, such as the Kenwood House and Parliament Hill, which offer panoramic views of the city skyline.

Location: London N6 4JH, UK

15. Battersea Park

Located in southwest London, this 200-acre park boasts stunning gardens, a large lake, and various sports facilities. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the landscaped gardens, take a boat ride on the lake or play games in the sports fields. The park also features a children's zoo, a Go Ape adventure course, and a playground for kids, making it an excellent destination for families with young children.

For those interested in history and architecture, Battersea Park also houses several historic landmarks, including the Peace Pagoda and the Pump House Gallery. Overall, Battersea Park is the best choice for a day out at a park in London, offering a perfect combination of outdoor activities, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

Location: London SW11 4NJ, UK

Where to Stay in London

Whether you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish base conveniently located near some of the best parks or gardens to visit in London or major attractions and areas of art and culture, you will find it at Fraser Residence Prince of Wales Terrace.

Our fashionable boutique apartment hotel is almost on the doorstep of Kensington Palace, putting Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park within easy walking distance. In addition to a charming Victorian location and proximity to excellent public transport links, our hotel offers attractive amenities such as a sauna, steam room, and 24-hour gym. Take advantage of our hotel offers and book your accommodations for a stay you’ll never forget.

FAQ about Best Parks in London

How many parks are there in London, UK?

There are 3,000 parks of varying sizes in London, UK.

What is the most famous park in London?

Arguably, the most famous park in London is Hyde Park, known for its expansive greenery, recreational features, and iconic landmarks like the Serpentine Lake and the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain.

What are the 8 Royal Parks of London?

Hyde Park, Green Park, Richmond Park, Greenwich Park, St James’s Park, Bushy and Regent’s Parks, and Kensington Gardens are the eight Royal Parks in London.

Which Royal Park is best to visit?

Some of the best Royal Park in London are Hyde Park, known for its size and activities, Richmond Park for wildlife, Regent's Park for its gardens, Kensington Gardens for its palace, and Greenwich Park for scenic views.