London's Royal Parks are nothing short of an urban oasis, offering everything from peaceful strolls to lively events. These green gems aren't just parks but pieces of living history dotted across the city and steeped in royal tradition. If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle, these spaces are ready to charm your socks off – and no, you don't need to wear tweed to enjoy them.
Where are all the Royal Parks you can visit in London?
Hyde Park: The Heart of It All
First up, Hyde Park. Arguably the most iconic of the Royal Parks you can visit in London, it's not just for Sunday strollers and joggers. Fancy a paddle? You'll find boating on the Serpentine. Craving a cultural hit? Check out the Diana Memorial Fountain or catch a gig at the open-air bandstand. Whether you're here to picnic or protest at Speakers' Corner, Hyde Park wears many hats, and all of them fit perfectly.
Regent's Park: A Wild Wonder
Over in the north, Regent's Park is where manicured gardens meet untamed wildlife. Home to ZSL London Zoo and the picturesque Open Air Theatre, it's ideal for families, theatre buffs, and anyone who fancies gawking at giraffes during their morning walk. Don't miss the stunning Queen Mary's Rose Garden – a fragrant showstopper in bloom.
Brompton Cemetery: Peaceful And Green
A Grade I-listed cemetery in West London, Brompton Cemetery is a peaceful space that's home to over 200,000 graves. You'll find stunning statues dotted around the space, from grieving angels to crosses covered in ivy, surrounded by ornate mausoleums and gothic monuments. You can also find some famous people buried here, including Emmeline Pankhurst and Doctor John Snow. This place is also home to all sorts of nature, from birds and bats to butterflies and beetles, and there's greenery galore to be admired.
Richmond Park: Deerly Beloved
If wide-open spaces and roaming wildlife are more your thing, Richmond Park delivers. A designated nature reserve, it's best known for its free-roaming deer, which make you feel like you've stepped into a BBC period drama. The views from King Henry's Mound are as regal as the name suggests – spot St. Paul's Cathedral on a clear day. Perfect for a cycle or a lazy afternoon picnic.
Image: Piotr Wieczorek.
St James's Park: Small But Mighty
Nestled between Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square, St James's Park is a compact beauty with royal views galore. Snap a photo of the pelicans – yes, pelicans – who've called this park home since the 17th century. The central lake and its iconic bridge are Instagram heaven, particularly when the cherry blossoms decide to show off in spring.
Green Park: The Minimalist Escape
Next door to St James's, Green Park offers a simpler kind of splendour. This park is all about open lawns and shady spots under ancient trees. Perfect for a lunchtime sandwich or a quiet think – less frills, more feels.
Kensington Gardens: Royalty in Bloom
Sharing a border with Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens holds its own with a regal flair. The Albert Memorial and Kensington Palace offer grandeur, while the Peter Pan statue adds a touch of whimsy. Kids (and big kids) will love the Diana Memorial Playground – a pirate ship at its heart makes it a proper adventure.
Kensington Gardens - Image: Roman Akash.
Victoria Tower Gardens: Historic Statues
Home to memorials commemorating some of the most important political events in British history, Victoria Tower Gardens is great for learning more about the city's past. Right on the banks of the river, you can admire the views of Central London from this lush green spot, as well as the beautiful gothic tower that gives the park its name. You'll be greeted by a statue of Emmeline Pankhurst as you enter, and there's plenty more to be discovered inside.
Bushy Park: Full Of Nature
A haven for wildlife, Bushy Park is a great place for spotting herds of deer, waterways flush with skylarks and even protected anthills. Located in Richmond, this is the second largest Royal Park in the city, home to the spectacular Diana Fountain that was designed by Sir Christopher Wren. There's a lot of history to the place too, as the D-Day landings were planned from a military base here, and it was said to be a favourite of King Henry VIII, who lived next door at Hampton Court Palace.
Greenwich Park: The One With The Views
One of the most spacious parks in the city, Greenwich Park nestles the south eastern banks of the Thames. promising amazing views of the city from its sloped green space, this is a popular choice for picnics and summertime strolls. You'll find the Cutty Sark and the National Maritime Museum at the edge of the park, and it's well worth climbing right to the top for the very best panoramas.
Greenwich Park in summer.
Why Visit London's Royal Parks?
There's something magical about stumbling across these green spaces in the middle of London's urban sprawl. They're perfect for lazy afternoons, cultural discoveries, or simply catching your breath. With so many Royal Parks you can visit in London, there's no excuse not to grab your trainers, a picnic blanket, or a good book and soak up the splendour. Just don't feed the squirrels – they're cheeky enough already.
Find more winter walks in London.
