Top Parks and Gardens in London

London's parks and gardens are spectacular in any season.

2 min read•Nov 07, 2017•By Chris Callaghan

Visitors explore historic gardens in central London in the UK

Hi, I'm Chris!

Chris Callaghan made his way through France, Asia, South America, and London, before falling head-over-heels for Bristol’s vibrant street art and food scenes. You’ll find him spinning through the Mendip Hills by bike, sharpening his squash skills, or taking his young family on adventures.

From the sweeping slopes of Primrose Hill to the royal gardens of Kensington Palace, London is home to a fine range of green spaces offering a welcome break from the busy city. See below for our top picks of the best parks and gardens in the British capital.

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Kensington Gardens

Kensington Gardens | Photo Credit: Leonid Andronov / Shutterstock

Once the private gardens of Kensington Palace, this site takes pride of place on the grounds of Hyde Park in central London. Pick up a Royal Palaces Pass to see Kensington and take in other famous parks and gardens including Hampton Court Palace and the Tower of London with one ticket.

Hyde Park

Broad avenues of trees in Hyde Park. | Photo Credit: evenfh / Shutterstock

Home to famous landmarks including the Albert Memorial, Serpentine Lake, and Speakers’ Corner, Hyde Park is one of central London’s finest green spaces. The park attracts visitors year-round to its winding walkways and tree-lined avenues, and it’s ideal to mark the changing seasons. Come in spring when daffodils and snowdrops line the walkways, or kick through the leaves in fall.

St. James’s Park

St. James’s Park in early springtime. | Photo Credit: Masami.K / Shutterstock

The most easterly of central London’s trio of royal parks (Hyde, Green, and St. James’s) this spot is prime for a sightseeing break. Nearby must-see landmarks include Birdcage Walk, Buckingham Palace, and the Horse Guards Parade. Hop into the saddle on a royal parks bike tour for a fun way to explore the park.

Green Park

A runner in Green Park in London. | Photo Credit: ariadna de raadt / Shutterstock

Set between Hyde Park to the west and St. James's Park to the east, Green Park spans 47 acres (19 hectares) and offers views along tree-lined avenues to Buckingham Palace and Wellington Arch. No visit to London is complete without seeing the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, and Green Park is the perfect before or after stroll.