Some of the best parks in the world
London is a huge city, alive with the constant buzz of places like Soho, Theatreland, The City and bustling shopping areas like Oxford Street and Covent Garden. Yet it’s also home to some of the finest parks to be found in any European capital. London parks are very well maintained and offer a haven of peace and tranquillity to the millions of people living and working in the city.
One of the most impressive parks in London is Hyde Park, a stunning landscape spread over 350 acres right in the heart of London. The park has over 4,000 trees, a boating lake, a meadow and open space for horse riding. There are a number of refreshments areas dotted around the park as well as a bar and kitchen at The Serpentine. On a fine day, there’s no better place to be in London.
Regent’s Park is another beauty spot and home to London Zoo, as well as being one of the largest outdoor sports areas in Central London. The famous outdoor theatre is a wonderful place to be on a balmy summer’s evening, while the beautiful Rose Garden is the perfect place to while away an hour or two enjoying an ice cream. Cycling isn’t allowed in the park, so if you’ve brought your bikes you’ll need to park them up and make your way by foot.
Victoria Park (or Vicky Park as it’s known locally) in East London is one of the best smaller parks in the city. It hosts a number of music festivals during the summer and is a great place to go for a picnic with the kids. The main feature of the park is the huge lake and fountain in the middle, while there’s also a lovely cafe by the edge of the lake where you can enjoy tasty food as you watch the ducks and geese drift by.
Over in West London, Richmond Park is a beautiful expanse of woodlands and hills that’s home to more than 650 deer. You’ll find children’s playgrounds at both the Kingston and Petersham gates and a wonderful eatery at Pembroke Lodge that has magnificent views of the surrounding area. There’s also a couple of refreshment kiosks located in the main car park.
Hampstead Heath is another favourite with Londoners in the summer time. The views from the top of Parliament Hill are breathtaking, especially in the evening when the whole city is lit up. The open air Lido offers the chance to dip your toes and have a splash in fine weather, while there are plenty of wide open spaces for kite flying or a game of footie.
If you’re planning a day out in one of London’s parks then book online with Southern Railway and get our Money Back Guarantee. This means that, if the weather’s not looking too good, you can choose not to collect your tickets and get a full refund.
