London’s Top 10 Picnic Spots

Grab a baguette, a picnic blanket and a friend or two, and get out there and enjoy London’s green spaces!

Despite being one of the world’s busiest cities, our capital boasts some beautiful parks perfect for picnicking, ranging from wild and wonderful to pristine and peaceful. London is also surrounded by the Green Belt, nearly 500,000 hectares of green space roughly three times the size of the city itself. Designed to prevent excessive urban expansion, not only does the Green Belt reduce the amount of carbon in the air, therefore slowing down the effects of climate change, but it also supports wildlife and habitat creation.

However, London has only half the green space needed for its almost 10 million inhabitants, and the city’s Green Belt is at risk of development. CPRE London works to protect these spaces, working with local campaigners and pressure groups to prevent further development and repurpose the land so those in and around London can continue to reap the benefits of being in nature.

So, in honour of the vast and varied green spaces London has to offer, let’s delve into its top 10 picnic spots!

Regent’s Park
Located in northwest London, Regent’s Park is regal by name and nature. With 410 acres of parkland, neatly planted flowers and carefully trimmed hedges, there’s an abundance of space for you to sprawl out on a picnic blanket.

Inner Temple Garden
A much smaller space, what makes Inner Temple Garden so unique is its secluded feel, despite being only a short walk away from St Paul’s Cathedral. Its location means you can enjoy views of some of London’s most handsome buildings whilst you nibble on a strawberry or two. This park is a real hidden gem.

Hampstead Heath
Another north-western green space, Hampstead Heath is a hub for wildlife. Boasting heathland, woodland, hedgerows, meadows and ponds, this park attracts a wide array of plants, insects and animals to join you on your picnic. To top it all off, this hilly park also has a hidden pergola and hill garden with spectacular views of the rest of the heath.

Holland Park
Moving to west London, make your way into Holland Park’s Japanese Kyoto Garden and seat yourself beside the tranquil stream, home to several colourful koi carp. Sit back, relax and enjoy the serenity of this picturesque park.

Hyde Park
We’ve all heard of this one, and for good reason. Located in the centre of the city, Hyde Park is accessible from whichever corner of London you’re travelling from, making it the perfect meet-up spot for all your picnicking friends. Expansive green spaces, a large lake and a rose garden to rival all others, Hyde Park has more than 350 acres to explore.

Brockwell Park
This south London park is set on a hilly landscape of ponds, trees, walled flower gardens and meadows, and contains several historic buildings to pique your interest. With children’s play areas and sports pitches, the entertainment can continue long after you’ve finished your food.

Greenwich Park
Travelling southeast now, the view at the top of Greenwich Park is one to behold, with several of London’s most iconic landmarks spreading out before you. The avenues of trees also will also appeal to anyone looking for a shady picnic spot.

Richmond Park
A popular spot in southwest London, Richmond Park is known for its ancient woods, rolling hills and open grasslands, and is one of the largest parks in Britain. Brimming with history and wildlife, you’re guaranteed to find the spot for you, whether that’s nestled against an oak tree, spread out on the long grass or seated in the park’s tea rooms.

Bushy Park
Part of London’s invaluable Green Belt, Bushy Park is home to wild deer, trickling streams and vibrant wildflowers, making it a real haven for wildlife. Just next door to Hampton Court Palace, Bushy Park lies at the start of the Green Belt Way, a network of paths that circle the city, perfect for a pre or post picnic stroll.

Victoria Park
Another brilliantly central green space for all to enjoy, Victoria Park is London’s oldest public park. The calm waters of the park’s pond provide a remarkably peaceful setting, and the Sunday market is open to all those who’d rather purchase their grub on site.