This city is a treasure trove of stunning walks that will take you from calm green spaces to hidden urban gems from summer through to winter.
Whether you’re craving the serene escape of a leafy trail in the heart of South London, the charm of a waterside wander down Regent's Canal, or a stroll steeped in history past Kensington Gardens, the capital has something for every kind of walker, and you'll find it all in our guide to the best London walks. Now, let’s hit the trail.
The Best Walks In London
The Thames Path
One way to pack a load of landmarks into your schedule is to take the Thames Path, a picturesque walking route that follows the course of the River Thames and is divided up into a mix of less-daunting sections than its 184-mile span. You could even follow it to the Cotswolds if you really wanted to.
Depending on which of the two routes you take, you'll wander along the South Bank, past the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye, while finding plenty of bars and restaurants to stop off at. And if you take the north route? Prepare to trundle through the forgotten floodplains of Richmond and Kew Gardens, and discover plenty of wildlife along the way.
Undoubtedly the best walking route in London for sightseeing.
The Line
Why walk The Line? If you're a fan of nature and art, then the city's first public art route is for you. This unique route blends contemporary art with East London’s urban and natural landscapes, following waterways and green spaces.
Along the way, you’ll encounter iconic installations by renowned artists like Antony Gormley’s Quantum Cloud, a steel structure rising from the Thames near The O2, and Abigail Fallis’s DNA DL90, a double helix of shopping trolleys that critiques consumerism. Spanning about 7 miles, The Line winds through highlights like Cody Dock, the River Lea, and Canary Wharf, culminating in the Greenwich Peninsula’s stunning riverside views.
Expect to see artists like Helen Cammock, Ron Haselden and Yinka Ilori on your strolls.
Hampstead Circular Walk
If you're planning on going on a walk for a date, we can't
recommend this six-mile route enough - the panoramic views from the
top of Parliament Hill make the perfect backdrop for a movie-style
kiss. This self-guided London walk explores Hampstead
Heath's wildlife, passes the picturesque bathing ponds and
winds around the famous, National Trust-owned Kenwood
House.
To make a day of it and extend your stroll, venture over to Highgate Cemetery (see if you can spot the graves of Karl Marx and George Eliot), and stop off for a cute coffee along the way - although we are quite partial to a hot chocolate from The Nook.
One of the best walks London has to offer, Hampstead Heath will take you through gorgeous green spaces.
Parkland Walk
Parkland Walk is one of London’s hidden gems and a former railway line turned lush, green haven stretching through the heart of the city. This four-kilometre-long path takes you on an adventure through woodlands, wildlife, and stunning urban views.
As you walk, you'll wander past towering trees and spot quirky street art, and maybe even local wildlife like foxes or birds. Catch a glimpse of abandoned platforms and tunnels from a time when it used to connect Finsbury Park and Alexandra Palace in 1873. Whether you're up for a peaceful stroll, a jog, or simply soaking in the sights, it offers the perfect blend of nature and city vibes all in one.
The city's longest nature reserve? That tracks.
Diana Princess Of Wales Memorial Walk
Undeniably one of the best places to walk in London is this gorgeous route. The Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk is seven miles long and marked by 90 plaques in the ground (these works by sculptor Alec Peever use a rose to symbolise the Princess as well as Britain's heritage).
The stroll spans three palaces, two mansions and eight Royal Parks featuring St. James's Park, Hyde Park, Green Park and the beautiful Kensington Gardens. You'll also pass the famous Peter Pan statue, as well as an irresistible cafe or two. Don't mind if we do.
Kensington Gardens is also home to the Diana Memorial Playground.
The Wandle Trail
Fancy a fauna-filled adventure in the heart of South London? The Wandle Trail follows the winding path of the River Wandle as it flows through green spaces, parks, and hidden gems.
Stretching for 12.5 miles, this trail takes you on a journey from the lush hills of Croydon all the way to the Thames, with plenty of quirky spots and scenic views along the way. Imagine strolling through vibrant nature reserves, passing by historic mills, and discovering unexpected art installations - all while hearing the calming rush of the river beside you.
Have a wandle through this South London trail.
The Jubilee Greenway
The Jubilee Greenway walk is London’s ultimate urban adventure, covering a 60-kilometre stretch of the city that takes you past iconic landmarks, hidden parks, and riverside views. Split into ten sections, it’s like a treasure hunt across the capital, where each step reveals something new - whether it's the views of the London Eye, the bustling streets of Camden, or the peaceful escape of Regent’s Canal.
Following the path of the 2012 Olympic Games, it connects a range of neighbourhoods, making it perfect for explorers who love a mix of history, culture, and epic city sights.
Fun fact: one kilometre equals one year of The Queen's reign in her Diamond Jubilee year.
Tamsin Trail
There's no question that Richmond Park makes for one of the best walks around London, but have you ever been on its Tamsin Trail? It's a just over seven-mile loop that’s the ultimate outdoor playground for walkers, joggers, and cyclists alike. Winding its way around the perimeter of the capital’s largest Royal Park, this trail treats you to sweeping views of rolling grasslands, ancient trees, and the occasional surprise appearance by the park’s famous free-roaming deer.
The best part? You’ll encounter hidden gems like picturesque ponds, wooded glades, and the odd pop-up coffee van - perfect for a mid-trail pick-me-up. And don’t forget to pause at Pembroke Lodge for a jaw-dropping view of the Thames Valley.
This perimeter track will take you between two and a half to four hours to complete.
Regent's Canal
Set off on one of London’s most scenic and underrated walks, starting at Paddington Basin and winding all the way to Limehouse Basin along Regent's Canal. This 13-kilometre stretch along the canal is perfect for an adventure where you can get a slice of both the city’s history and modern life. You’ll wander through quirky neighbourhoods, pass industrial buildings, and take in the serene beauty of the waterway, all while encountering cute houseboats and hidden gems tucked away along the route.
Whether you're strolling past the cool canalside cafes in Maida Vale, soaking in the views in Islington, or admiring the contrast of East London’s docklands at Limehouse, this walk is a guaranteed great time - plus a great excuse to stop for coffee, lunch, or even a cheeky pint along the way.
This 200-year-old canal is one of the best walks in Central London.
Cox's Walk
Cox’s Walk in Sydenham Hill Wood is like stepping into a secret woodland fairytale, right in the heart of South London. This enchanting trail takes you through ancient trees, lush greenery, and even over a historic Victorian footbridge, offering a mix of history and natural beauty at every turn.
Just a 25-minute walk from Sydenham Overground, the city's oldest Wildlife Trust's nature reserve is home to over 200 species of trees and plants, as well as bats, woodpeckers and tawny owls. As you wander along the path, keep an eye out for birds, butterflies, and maybe even a shy fox or two. You’ll also find remnants of old railway lines, adding a touch of urban history to the scenic surroundings.
Short but sweet, this walk takes an hour to complete.
Looking for a stroll further out of the city? Check out our guide to the best walks near London.