London Walks: 14 of the best from Richmond Park to Crouch End

London is a vibrant and bustling city that's well-known for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and designer shops. However, amidst all the excitement, it's easy to forget that the city is home to many beautiful green spaces that provide a welcome escape from the urban hustle and bustle. 

Read on to discover some of the most beautiful walks in London.

Head Out To Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London's most iconic green spaces, and offers a wealth of opportunities for walkers of all levels of experience. The park is vast, covering over 350 acres, so there is plenty of space to explore. The paths in Hyde Park are well-paved and well-maintained, making it a great place for people of all ages and abilities to take a walk. One of the most popular walks in the park is around the Serpentine, which is a flat and easy route that's approximately 2.5 miles long. This walk takes you past some of the park's most beautiful scenery, including the Serpentine Bridge and the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain.

As you walk, you'll be surrounded by wildlife, from waterfowl to squirrels and even the occasional fox. If you're looking for a longer walk, the park's perimeter path is approximately 4 miles long and takes you past some of London's most iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament.

This walk offers stunning views of the city, and is a great way to see some of London's most famous sights while getting some exercise at the same time. For those who prefer a more secluded walk, the Rose Garden and the Italian Garden offer tranquil paths through carefully curated collections of flowers and plants. These gardens are particularly beautiful in the spring and summer months, when the flowers are in full bloom.

Finally, if you're looking for a challenging walk, the Diana Memorial Walk takes you through the park's many beautiful gardens, and is a great way to explore some of Hyde Park's more hidden corners.

This walk is approximately 7 miles long, and takes you past the memorial fountain and through some of the park's most scenic areas.

Ramble Along Regent's Canal

Walking along Regent's Canal is an excellent way to explore the more tranquil side of London, away from the busy streets. The canal offers a peaceful and scenic route, providing a welcome break from the city's hustle and bustle. The path is well-maintained, making it an easy and accessible walk for all ages and abilities.

Along the way, you'll find charming canal boats, picturesque bridges, and cosy lock houses. The walk is particularly stunning in the autumn when the trees' leaves turn golden and red, creating a colourful canopy above.

The two-mile journey from Camden to Little Venice offers a great opportunity to grab some street food in Camden and enjoy the vibrant markets of Brixton.

Additionally, you can explore the area's historic architecture and take a boat ride along the tranquil canal. Whether you're seeking a quiet escape or a new adventure, walking along Regent's Canal is a must-do activity in London.

Hike In Hampstead Heath

The walks in Hampstead Heath offer a unique and untamed experience of nature within the city of London. With over 800 acres of sprawling woodlands, picturesque hilltops, and vast meadows, there are endless paths to explore. The unmissable Parliament Hill offers a panoramic view of the city's skyline, while the ponds provide a peaceful respite from the bustling city.

The Heath is home to diverse wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Hampstead Heath has something for everyone. The Heath is also dog-friendly, making it a great place to bring your furry friend for a walk. With its idyllic surroundings and endless trails to explore, a visit to Hampstead Heath is a must for anyone looking to escape the urban jungle and connect with nature.

Follow Inner London Ramblers’ Hampstead Heath trails here

Step Out In South Bank

The South Bank walk offers a glimpse into London's rich cultural and historical heritage, as you stroll along the Thames, taking in the vibrant street art and picturesque views. From Shakespeare's Globe Theatre to the Tate Modern, the area is a haven for art enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of galleries, museums, and cultural centres to explore. And if you're in the mood for some retail therapy, the South Bank is home to a plethora of independent boutiques, quirky vintage shops, and trendy cafes and restaurants.

Whether you're looking for a quiet evening stroll or an action-packed day out, the South Bank is the perfect spot to explore the city's dynamic spirit and artistic flair.

Roam Richmond Park

Walking through Richmond Park in London is a unique experience that takes you away from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerses you in nature. The park's 2,500 acres offer plenty of picturesque landscapes and captivating wildlife, making it a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.

You can wander through the fields and woodland areas and spot the park's resident deer grazing in their natural habitat. The park's more than 600 wild red and fallow deer add a touch of enchantment to your walk. If you're lucky, you might even catch sight of a group of fawns frolicking around. One of the park's highlights is King Henry's Mound, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city's skyline, including St. Paul's Cathedral.

Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Richmond Park is the perfect destination to explore on foot.

Saunter Through Stratford 

Stratford is an up-and-coming area in East London, offering a variety of walking experiences.

The Olympic Park, built for the 2012 London Olympics, is a highlight of the area, offering a large green space perfect for walks and picnics. The park also features numerous artworks, sculptures, and water features, providing a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

Additionally, the Lee Valley Park, stretching from Ware in Hertfordshire to the Thames at East India Dock Basin, is accessible from Stratford, offering a diverse range of walking routes through woodlands, meadows, and wetlands.

The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park also houses a canal that winds through the park, offering a pleasant walking experience with views of the city's skyline.

Stratford is also home to the picturesque Abbey Mills Pumping Station, a unique Victorian building that's been converted into a brewery, providing a great spot to take a break and enjoy a pint. 

Walk The Line 

The Line is a must-visit walk for those looking to combine their love of contemporary art with a stroll through London's scenic landscapes.

Stretching over 3 miles between Greenwich and Stratford, this unique walk features a collection of bold and daring artworks from some of the most celebrated artists of our time, including Damien Hirst and Antony Gormley.

Visitors can expect to see a variety of striking installations along the way, such as sliced-up sand dredgers and scientifically stacked shopping trolleys. The walk is not just about the art, however, as there are also plenty of landmarks to admire along the way.

And for a truly unique experience, visitors can even glide over the Thames in the Emirates Air Line cable car.

The Line is the perfect choice for those seeking a cultural and visually stimulating walk through London's vibrant and ever-changing art scene.

Amble Around Earls Court 

Earls Court is a charming area located in the west of London, offering a variety of walking routes to explore.

One of the most popular routes is a walk along the historic Brompton Cemetery, which is a beautiful green space with an intriguing history. The cemetery is home to some notable graves, including those of suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst and artist Beatrix Potter.

Another great walk in the area is through Holland Park, which is a lovely urban park with stunning gardens and beautiful peacocks. The park also features a Japanese garden, an open-air theatre, and a delightful café. If you're looking for a more peaceful stroll, head over to the tranquil Earl's Court Square, a residential garden square with a beautiful fountain and plenty of benches to sit and relax. For those looking to explore further afield, the Thames Path is easily accessible from Earls Court, providing a lovely riverside walk with plenty of stunning views along the way.

Explore Elephant & Castle

Elephant & Castle is an area in London that has undergone significant regeneration in recent years, making it an exciting place to explore on foot.

One of the most popular walking routes in the area is the Elephant Park Walk, which takes you through the newly built park and around the neighbourhood's vibrant streets. The park boasts a large green space, complete with water features, children's play areas, and plenty of seating to enjoy a picnic or soak up the sun.

Another popular route is the London South Bank Walk, which starts at Elephant & Castle and takes you along the Thames, passing by iconic landmarks such as the and the Tate Modern.

With its rich history and diverse cultural scene, Elephant & Castle is a fascinating area to explore on foot, providing an authentic and unique glimpse into London's dynamic neighbourhoods.

Stroll Through St James's 

St James's Park, London's oldest Royal Park, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

This picturesque park is located in close proximity to several of London's most iconic landmarks, including Westminster, St James's Palace, and Buckingham Palace. It's the perfect place to encounter British wildlife that is comfortable around humans, such as the friendly squirrels who will eat from your hand if you are patient enough.

Additionally, you'll get to meet the park's most famous residents, the regal pelicans, who have been calling the park home since the 17th century. While St James's Park is a popular tourist destination, it's still worth exploring. The iconic fountain and massive weeping willows offer a warm welcome to visitors, and it's hard to believe that this serene oasis was once a muddy swamp.

With its rich history and stunning natural beauty, St James's Park is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic on a sunny day.

Take The Parkland Walk 

This walk is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore some of London's lesser-known neighbourhoods in the north, including Crouch End, Highgate, and Muswell Hill.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, this trail will take you on a journey through nature and history. The two-and-a-half-mile walk is lined with trees and follows the former tracks of a railway line that ran between Finsbury Park and Ally Pally in the late 1800s. While you won't be able to explore any abandoned platforms, you'll still get a sense of the past as you traverse the old tracks.

As you walk, take in the stunning views of Muswell Hill's picturesque white houses and immerse yourself in nature. The peace and quiet on the weekends offer a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of London's polluted streets.

One exciting new addition to the Parkland Walk is the Wildlife Trail, where walkers can explore a section of the walk that protects environmentally sensitive flora and fauna. Volunteers work tirelessly to maintain this section, making it a unique and special experience for visitors.

Although weekends can attract more visitors, the Parkland Walk is still a peaceful and refreshing destination that is perfect for a morning or afternoon stroll. Don't miss out on this hidden gem in the heart of north London.

Mosey Around Morden Hall

If you're looking for a peaceful escape in the heart of London, Morden Hall Park is the perfect destination.

Originally built in the late 1700s, the park has a rich history as a country estate before being bequeathed to the National Trust in 1941. The 125-acre park features a winding River Wandle, which is home to an array of bird species, including cormorants, herons, redwings, little egrets, and firecrests. Birdwatchers will be in their element here, with plenty of opportunities to spot these feathered creatures in their natural habitat.

The park is also home to over 2,000 roses, making it a delightful destination for horticultural enthusiasts. With tree-lined pathways and unspoiled green expanses, Morden Hall Park provides a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

And the best part? There's no entry fee, so you can enjoy this tranquil oasis to your heart's content. Just a five-minute walk from Morden tube station, the park is open 365 days a year, offering visitors the chance to escape to nature whenever they please.

Tread The Thames Path

The Thames Path is a true gem for walkers, offering an unparalleled opportunity to experience London's diverse landscape.

The path stretches for 184 miles, beginning at the source of the Thames in Gloucestershire and ending at the Thames Barrier in Woolwich, but the London section is a must-visit for its unique blend of city and countryside.

Walking along the riverbank, you'll encounter an array of historic landmarks, such as the Houses of Parliament and Tower Bridge, while enjoying the peacefulness of the Thames waters.

Whether you choose to walk the entire length of the London section or just a few miles, the Thames Path is a picturesque and unforgettable way to experience the city.

Wander Through Inner Temple Garden

The Inner Temple Garden in London is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to take a break from the city's hustle and bustle. With a history dating back to the 14th century, the garden is an oasis of tranquillity and natural beauty that has been meticulously maintained over the centuries.

As you walk along the tree-lined paths, you'll notice the remnants of the ancient orchard and the 18th-century iron gates that give the garden a historical charm. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll on the beautifully manicured lawns, stop for a picnic, or simply sit and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The garden is also a haven for wildlife, with a variety of birds, bees, and butterflies that add to the vibrant floral display of tulips, poppies, geraniums, dahlias, and snowdrops. 

As Londoners, it's important to take a step back from the city's hustle and bustle and enjoy the natural beauty around us. These walks offer the perfect escape and a chance to connect with nature without having to leave the city.