by When the sun is out in London, there are few things better than packing your backpack and heading out for a picnic.
With the city sweltering in glorious heat, it’s vital to get out and enjoy every last bit of it: as we’ve already seen this year, it doesn’t last long. Plenty of hearty picnic snacks and liquid refreshments will certainly help you do just that. Chuck in some beautiful surroundings or an incredible view and it’s a good job.
If you need more inspiration to enjoy the capital’s green spaces, look no further than Love Parks Week, which starts on Friday (July 25). Organized by environmental group Keep Britain Tidy, it is designed to raise awareness of the city’s parks and the importance of preserving them.
The organization encourages local communities each year to get involved in any way they choose, from an outdoor film screening to a scavenger hunt for the little ones. And of course, the classic park activity: picnics.
We’ve put together a list of where to find some of the best picnic spots in the capital. Whether you’re after a secluded spot, a hub of activity or, erm, dinosaur statues, we’ve got you covered.
Savharkin Hill
Nearest station: Camden Town (Underground), Chalk Farm (Underground)
If you’re after a picnic with a view, there are few better places to visit than Knockna Sabharcin. With the top of the hill more than 60 meters above sea level, the city’s sprawling skyline is laid out before you. It’s right next to London Zoo, too, if you feel like popping in after your picnic.
Kew Gardens
Nearest station: Kew Gardens (Overground, Underground)
The botanical gardens provide a great setting for a picnic. There are many beautiful places within the grounds where you can set up and enjoy your food, as well as a designated picnic area near Brentford Gate.
Richmond Park
Nearest station: Richmond (underground)
This is a favorite among Londoners, but since it covers more than 2,500 acres (the largest of the Royal Parks), you can always find a quiet, secluded spot for a picnic. The park is also rich in wildlife – around 650 deer live alongside birds, beetles, bumblebees and more.
Greenwich Park
Nearest station: Cutty Sark (DLR)
This is London’s oldest Royal Park and is quite large (183 acres, in fact). There is plenty to see and do on the grounds – from a visit to the Greenwich Planetarium to a walk through the University grounds – but probably the best picnic spot is on the hilltop, which offers stunning views of the Thames and the London skyline.
Dulwich Park
Nearest station: West Dulwich, North Dulwich or Forest Hill
A gem of a park lined with ancient oak trees surrounding a gentle pedalo pond, Bowles club and cafe. Due to the park’s proximity to central Dulwich and Forest Hill there are plenty of family friendly things to do, playgrounds and the like, but there are also tennis courts and cricket nets for the more active amongst you.
Crystal Palace Park
Nearest station: Crystal Palace (Overland)
There is plenty of green space within this park, as well as a dedicated area close to the lake. Be sure to check out the dinosaur sculptures as well, which have been there since the park opened in the Victorian era.
Holland Park
Nearest station: Holland Park (Underground)
A retreat from the hustle and bustle of Kensington. The grounds offer a lot – from sports fields to a woodland area – but perhaps the highlight is Japan’s Kyoto Garden. The idyllic spot has benches perfect for a picnic, complete with a koi pond and waterfall.
Brockwell Park
Nearest station: Erne Hill (above ground)
Basketball, tennis, cricket nets, BMX track and lido; Brockwell park looks set for an active day out. However, the rolling hills of the park are also perfect for soaking up the summer sun, with many local cafes and delis providing good places to refuel.
Horniman Museum
Nearest station: Woodhill (overland)
Head to the quaint 112-year-old bandstand within the gardens of the Horniman Museum for the best picnic spot – although there are plenty of viable options throughout the 16-acre grounds. Afterwards, walk along the nature trail or visit the Grade II listed conservatory – or, of course, step inside the free museum.
Hampstead Heath
Nearest station: Hampstead Heath (Overground), Hampstead (Underground)
Another common place, and for good reason. The view over London from the top of Parliament Hill is superb – and fortunately protected by law. The area in front of Kenwood House, the stately home, is also a picnic patch. And if you need to cool down later, check out the pools.
Victoria Park
Nearest station: Hackney Wick (Overland)
Known as “The People’s Park”, the East End location is an old favorite – in fact, it’s London’s oldest public park, having opened in 1845. Once you’ve sunk into your bum, we recommend a pleasant stroll on a row boat. , can be hired from 11am to 5pm, seven days a week.
Battersea Park
Nearest stations: Battersea Park (Overland)
There are several picturesque gardens within Battersea Park, but perhaps the best for a picnic is the Sub-Tropical Garden, where you can relax under the palm trees and admire the other exotic plants.
Clapham Commons
Nearest stations: Clapham Common, Clapham South (Underground)
It’s always full of joggers, footballers, yogis, cyclists and all manner of people, but Clapham Common is big enough to mean that it’s never impossible to find a quiet, pleasant place for a picnic. Always a winner somewhere with Mount Pound.
