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Green Retreats – Exploring London’s Greenest Spaces

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Published
02/21/2024

London is one of the world's biggest cities, and space is at an absolute premium. This means that not only are green spaces highly valued, but that developers can sometimes tempt cash-strapped authorities into redesignating precious parks and wild spaces into land upon which much-needed housing can be built. While everyone deserves a home, humans also need to be able to breath easily and everyone should have access to green spaces somewhere relatively close to their homes… Here are some of London's greenest spaces where you can escape to after a busy day exploring the city, before you return to your short-term rental service apartment for the night. (Search apartments in London for rent short term here.)


Richmond Park

The largest of London's Royal Parks, Richmond Park is home to a herd of deer and contains a number of historically significant buildings too. It is a great place to go to breath in some fresh air – and it's big enough that you won't be subjected to exhaust fumes as you wander along the walkways.


Hampstead Heath

Purchased by the city of London in 1870 so that the population would have somewhere green and natural to enjoy healthy walks and other exercise, the Heath is a famous – and somewhat seedy – part of London's history, with a reputation for being a good spot for finding 'hook-up' partners for a few hours of fun and – ahem – recreation. The site offers wonderful views over London and is a great place to while away some tranquil hours.


Highgate Cemetery

A spookily gothic delight of leaning tombstones; mysterious, nearly overgrown pathways and the sense that you have, in just a few steps, moved somewhere far away from contemporary London! Some of the people buried in the cemetery are worth visiting too: George Michael is one of the more recent interrees, while Karl Marx's grave has long attracted visitors both friendly and not (his tomb was the target of not one but two bomb attempts in the 70s).


Holland Park

Less a park and more a very very large formal garden, Holland Park is beautifully laid out, boasting plenty of seating for visitors, beautifully landscaped vistas and even play areas where children can race about, climb and slide to their heart's content. It can be found in Kensington, making it the perfect decompression space following hours at the museums or even browsing in Harrod's department store.


Walthamstow Wetlands

A large 211 acre site, this region boasts a wealth of bird life, and is close to the River Thames, which adds to its attractions for birds and animal life. Free to access, Londoners flock here in nice weather to enjoy lengthy walks, take wonderful photographs and generally feel as though they have enjoyed a miniature holiday for a little while.


Regent's Canal

Right in the heart of London, this cutaway of the canal has been reworked to make it inviting to walkers and joggers of all ages and abilities. Make the most of it and hire a canal boat to travel through Little Venice to Regent's Park and on to Camden Lock – a wonderful day out that feels like you're in the country, while chugging calmly through the bustling city.

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