The best London parks & gardens
32 of the best London parks & gardens
Get outside and into the great outdoors with our picks of the best parks and gardens in South West London and Surrey.
By Emily Davidson
Enjoy some fresh air and time off screens with the kids, while you stroll around some of these amazing green spaces. We have a fantastic array of parks in South West London and Surrey that are perfect for families.
Main image: Isabella Plantation at Richmond Park (c) The Royal Parks, photo by Heather Carr / Joel Bradley
1
Sunbury Park
Spelthorne
Sunbury Walled Gardens is a gorgeous hidden gem nestled in Spelthorne with rich biodiversity. For hundreds of years this land has been farmed and continues to be using old farming techniques. Sunbury is unique as it has cows to help manage the grasslands which creates more space for beautiful wildflowers. Built in the 18th century, this park has definitely earned its Green Belt Status. Amidst the walled garden lies a remarkable centre piece Lendy Memorial which was rebuilt after being destroyed in World War II.
2
Brockwell Park
Lambeth
Having won multiple awards, including the Green Flag award, this large park is an appealing destination for summer. It lies within a hilly landscape and features ponds, trees, a walled flower garden and lovely open meadows. Historic buildings such as Brockwell Hall, Brockwell Lido, the Walled Garden, and a beautiful 19th-century Tritton clock tower add interest and charm to this brilliant green space. This area is perfect for little ones with its ride-on miniature railway, children’s playground and wet play area. For those who enjoy sports there are tennis and basketball courts and football fields and for adventurous types there is the BMX track.
3
Dulwich Park
Southwark
Another Green Flag park is Dulwich Park located in Southwark. It is nearly 30 hectares of luscious green space and complete with a large children’s play area, a superb cafe and brilliant cycle hire outlet. After a walk or cycle, why not head over to Dulwich Gallery? This cultural hub is home to over 600 artworks with artwork from Rembrant, Gainsborough and Poussin.
4
Crystal Palace Park
With renovations underway on Crystal Palace Park by their trust, a new and improved park is coming your way. They plan to create a dinosaur-themed playground alongside restoring the dinosaur sculptures which will make this the perfect spot to take children. In spite of the work, Crystal Palace will remain open and continue to hold events. Check out the Concert Cafe, skatepark, market, museum, farm, maze and more.
FABULOUS FOODIE CONTENT:
5
Wandsworth Park
If you would like a riverside stroll, look no further than Wandsworth Park. It offers fantastic views and is the perfect place to watch the world go by. This beautiful Grade II listed Edwardian park fuses formality and informality. For ease of mind, from the cafe you can watch your kids enjoy the playground. If you’re up for it, battle it out with a game of golf on the putting green.
6
Nonsuch Park
Nestled between Cheam and Ewell Village lies gorgeous Nonsuch Park. Central to the park is Nonsuch Mansion House, surrounded by a large open space with a fantastic range of different flowers, birds and insects. Fancy a bite to eat after your walk? Head on over to Nonsuch Pantry Cafe where you can choose from a delectable selection of refreshments, cakes or try the new ice cream parlour. The lovely gallery and museum are open at selected times but are definitely worth visiting for more information about the history of the house.
7
Polesden Lacey
Great Bookham
Polesden Lacy is surrounded by over 1,500 acres of gorgeous gardens complete with rolling hills and ancient woodlands. Little ones can discover the brilliant natural play area which includes swings, tunnels and giant nests. There are lots of exciting places to go here from the coffee shop and cafe to the gift shop and second hand bookstore. This National Trust property holds events throughout the year so there’s always something fun to do. This grand Edwardian house was used as a luxurious weekend retreat by socialite Margaret Greville. Admission fee.
8
Winkworth Arboretum
Godalming
Expect a fun day out for all the family when you visit Winkworth Arboretum. There is plenty for children to do in The Tree Adventure play area which is made from the arboretum’s oak trees such as a climbing wall, rope tunnel, ladders and firefighter’s pole. This lovely park is home to over 1,000 species of trees, a tranquil lake and a delightful tea room. Admission fee.
9
Claremont Landscape Garden
Near Esher
Another fantastic destination is Claremont where you can enjoy the picturesque lake situated below the grass-covered, 3 acre amphitheatre. Both the Camellia and North Terrace have amazing views of the nationally important camellias and nearby countryside.
With almost 300 years of history and the influence of many important landscape designers, these beautiful gardens are a treat for those who love connecting with nature. Admission fee.
10
Marble Hill Park
Twickenham
Get lost in the history of Marble Hill House which offers free entry and allows you to explore the story of Henrietta Howard. Expect 60 gorgeous acres of riverside parkland, brilliant gardens and woods. Kids are sure to enjoy the family trail, playground and nine-pin bowling alley. There’s also a cafe if you fancy a treat while you’re there. Look out for the fantastic community events throughout the year in this English Heritage property.
THE BEST LOCAL THINGS TO DO:
11
The Streatham
Rookery
A Grade II listed historic garden, nestled between Streatham, Norbury and West Norwood is Streatham Rookery. Rich in wildlife, it contains ornamental ponds, an orchard, community garden and wildflower beds. This delightful formal garden has certainly earned its Green Flag award. Steeped in history, ‘The Rookery’ was a large private house and this land was originally its landscaped gardens. If you’re bringing kids, check out the paddling pool which they’re sure to love. Fresh produce can be found at the Rookery Farmers Market run every third Saturday of the month. Their amazing cafe is definitely worth a mention, the menu features breakfast baps, toasties and seasonal variations of avocado sourdough toast. The majority of their food is made on site and they use wonderful fresh ingredients.
12
Gunnersbury Park
This 72 hectare parkland is worth a visit with serene lakes, formal gardens and parklands perfect for a picnic. This amazing estate was owned by Princess Amelia, as part of her larger country estate, later Baron Lionel de Rothschild resided here and it became a public park in 1926. Extensive renovations have helped improve the garden and the museum contains a staggering 50,000 museum and archive items. With a full event list all year round, there’s always something on at Gunnersbury Park.
13
RHS Garden Wisley
Woking
Wisley is well known for a reason so why not head on down? Home to one of the largest plant collections in the world and it’s only 30 minutes away from London. A visual delight all year round, the iconic Glasshouse offers exotic plants and a wonderful waterfall. RHS Hilltop is the UK’s first dedicated gardening science hub where you can learn about gardening advice and new scientific discoveries. For a more historical experience, The Old Laboratory is the perfect place featuring interactive exhibits, intriguing artefacts and accounts from previous students and staff. Admission fee.
14
Horton Gardens
Epsom
Last year’s opening of Horton Gardens was complete with wildflower meadow areas, benches, lawns and 1000 new saplings. Previously, for over 30 years, this was an inaccessible mess of brambles and rubble but has been transformed thanks to their dedicated volunteers. The park has a full event schedule including outdoor events, courses, workshops, performances, and events specifically for children and families. More lovely features of this park include a permanent exhibition and The Horton Cafe-Bar.
15
Peckham Rye Park and Common
A treat for kids of all ages with a children’s play site and a newly renovated older children’s adventure playground. Over 100 acres contain a lake, woodland, open parkland and formal and water gardens. Another lovely part of the park is Sexby Garden, a wonderful ornamental garden featuring beautiful roses and shrubs. It is truly a community park with events run throughout the year and a dedicated Friends of Peckham Rye Park. This hidden gem has tons of history, it dates back to the Domesday book and is in 14th century documents.
16
Beddington Park and The Grange
This popular 58 hectare park contains woodlands, formal gardens and a lake. Running through the park is the River Wandle which becomes a lake in the Grange Garden. Evidence of Bronze Age settlements give Beddington Park something to be proud of. The only Grade I listed building in Sutton is The Great Tudor Hall, part of the medieval Manor house. Stay active with the outdoor gym, tennis courts, football pitches, ball court and, for little ones, a new and improved playground. For your convenience, rest assured they have onsite changing rooms. Their activities and events programme mean that this is always an excellent destination.
17
Clapham Common
A Green Flag and ‘Commons’ of the Year award winner, is Clapham Common, one of London’s largest and oldest public open spaces. Get active with the netball and basketball courts, football and rugby pitches, cricket nets and three fitness areas. Explore the wonderful ponds, woodlands, meadows and grasslands. Kids will love the play area and paddling pool. With traditional Victorian ‘Party’ colours, Clapham Common Bandstand is a gorgeous feature and has been shortlisted for awards. While you’re there, choose from one of their three cafes or check out the Bandstand Beds Community Gardens.
18
Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath
This gorgeous green space is Hampstead Heath. It is completely free but full of wonderful spots for you to explore. Take a tour of the iconic stately house built in the 17th century which you may recognise from the set of many films. An incredible world-class art collection, acres of landscaped gardens make Kenwood a delightful hidden gem. Discover their community programme focused on their beautiful Kitchen Garden.
19
Wimbledon and Putney Commons
At Wimbledon and Putney Commons, there’s something for everyone with woodland, scrubland, heathland, ponds and lawns. Residing here are a range of birds, animals and plants, perhaps go with your kids and see how many you can spot! Tuck into a cake at the cafe situated next to the iconic Windmill which is now open as a museum. Want to learn more about the nature or history of the commons? Head to the Information Centre, which is open daily to satisfy your curiosity.
20
South Park Garden
Wimbledon
Nestled just outside Wimbledon town centre is South Park Gardens, a precious oasis. It is a home to over 20 different species of trees and birds. Dedicated volunteers and a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund have significantly improved this lovely garden. Ideal for little ones due to the high fences which keep it contained and small size which make it easy to spot wherever they’ve raced off to.
21
Morden Hall Park
At Morden Hall Park, there’s lots to discover from the National Trust’s only garden centre to the Potting Shed Cafe and meadows to secondhand bookshop. Take a break from the fast pace of the city in this former deer park and wonderful oasis. Keep the kids entertained with an brilliant natural play area (including a zip line) or they can enjoy a variety of activities in the snuff mill. Stroll in the Rose Garden, which is quite the treat, nearly 3 acres in size and has an outstanding 45 different roses. If you fancy a longer riverside walk, why not try the Wandle Trail and go down to nearby Poulter Park or even Carshalton?
22
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
As well as enjoying the fresh air and outdoor space, little ones can also discover the world of science behind the botanical collection, with over 50,000 living plants which can be found across the UNESCO World Heritage site. Also experience the amazing children’s garden, which is the size of 40 tennis courts and features a range of fun attractions. Look down on the rest of the park as you tower 18 metres above on the fantastic treetop walk. The Rock Garden is one of the oldest and largest in the world and its rocks and plants are from all over the world. There are plenty of amazing places to eat at Kew, perhaps you could grab a bite for lunch and go on an afternoon stroll. Admission fee.
23
Mostyn Gardens
Merton Park
Tucked away in Merton Park is the lovely Mostyn Gardens, covering 4 hectares. Children can enjoy the play areas and dog walkers will love the tree lined avenues. If you’d like a gym session and some fresh air, try the brilliant outdoor gym. Stretch your legs in the wonderful sunken gardens or give the multi-sports area a go. Whilst you’re there perhaps visit Poplar Road Community Scooter Park with the kids for some safe scooting fun.
24
Holland Gardens
West Wimbledon
West Wimbledon’s hidden gem, Holland Garden was gifted by Lady Holland to the people of Merton in 1928 in memory of her husband Sir Arthur Holland. Signs around the garden help visitors learn more about the amazing areas around the park that the volunteers have created. For example, there is a wildlife area with a bug hotel, pond and bird feeders. Some beautiful features include cherry blossom trees, wildflower areas and soak-aways. The garden offers tennis courts and outdoor table tennis which would make for a lovely afternoon game.
25
Wimbledon Park
This popular park offers two separate play areas with a fantastic range of equipment for toddlers and older kids. On a hot summer day, the Splash Pad is the perfect place to bring the kids. Battle it out on the crazy golf course or take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the lake. Want to get active? Have a game of table tennis, beach volleyball or tennis. The lake is really the centre of the park, has lots of wildlife and a huge selection of activities. Not only is this park full of nature but it’s also steeped in history as in 1764 it was designed by Capability Brown.
26
Oasis Nature Garden
Clapham
Oasis Nature Garden offers free and inclusive environmental play sessions for kids aged 5-12 years old. Oasis is a voluntary organisation who foster a sense of adventure in children by running four different community projects available after school and in school holidays. Young people aged 15-16 are encouraged to become volunteers and support this wonderful organisation. All members of the community are welcome to enjoy the garden and all it has to offer including a wildlife pond, fire circle, wildflower meadow, mud kitchen and tree house.
27
Bishops Park
Fulham
Perhaps take a riverside walk in Bishops Park situated in Fulham, which is one of the most popular and well-used parks in Fulham. Make use of all the facilities, such as a toddler’s playground, a junior playground, skate bowl, table tennis tables, basketball goal and waterplay for all ages during the summer months. There are many gardens in the park, including a lovely Rose Garden, a Spanish War Memorial Garden and a Moat Garden. Ensure you also check out some of the other amazing features of the park which include a cafe, meadow and ornamental lake.
28
Palewell Common
East Sheen
A stone’s throw away from Richmond Park, Palewell Common offers excellent activities for all the family, such as a nine-hole pitch and putt course, football and cricket pitches, and changing rooms. Sit back and relax at the cafe and while the little ones splash about in the paddling pool. If not, children can also let off some steam in the play areas which are complete with an accessible roundabout, DDA compliant swing seat, spinner bowl and interactive play panels.
29
Hampton Court Palace And Gardens
A wonderful 60 acres of formal gardens and 750 acres of historic parkland are just waiting for you to explore at Hampton Court Palace and Gardens. King Henry VIII’s famous retreat offers extensive grounds, from manicured lawns to a wilderness garden and a maze. It is also home to the Magic Garden- one of the best playgrounds in the area and offers mythical beasts, battlements, and a secret grotto. Imaginations can run wild as little ones cross bridges into turrets, hide out in secret dens or tackle the sandpit guarded by dragons. With over 500 years of history, at this royal gem you can discover luxurious historical apartments and kitchens.
Admission fee.
30
Bushy Park
Bushy Park is a lovely park containing deer, peaceful water and woodland gardens. Check out the Diana Fountain, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, which is the park’s iconic landmark. Want to have a fun afternoon out with the kids? Take them to Bushy Park’s superb play area containing a selection of equipment, climbing frame, balance trail, dry river and climbing boulders and lots of swings. They can explore the large sandpit while you watch from the pergola or other seating available around the playground. Then, stroll around the wild and beautiful parkland, and stop for ice cream at the Pheasantry Cafe.
31
Battersea Park
Battersea Park has so much going for it, with views of the river, and brilliant walks. Little ones are sure to love the adventure playground, complete with fire engine and helicopter, as well as a play area in the wider park for all age groups. Battersea Park Children’s Zoo is bound to be a fantastic day out for all the family and will captivate the minds of children with its wide range of animals. Within the park you can discover Go Ape which has lots to offer including views of the city and is sure to be an exhilarating adventure. Zip through the trees on the Treetop Challenge or challenge yourself in the new outdoor puzzle experience, Codebreakers.
32
Richmond Park
Go on a stroll around the gorgeous gardens in Pembroke Lodge and reward the kids with a divine ice cream from the kiosk. Little ones can explore Petersham Playground which has a sandpit, waterplay, swings, and a big climbing frame. Isabella Plantation is another beautiful part of the park which contains ponds, streams, pretty flowers, including evergreen azaleas. Perfect for a picnic with some lovely quiet spots, this is not one to miss. In other parts of the park you can expect to spot deers, but take care not to get too close.
