Guide to activities in London for nature lovers

Situated between King's Cross and St Pancras, this little slice of urban nature comprises lush grassland, wetland habitats, woodland, and marshland. This diverse landscape creates an ideal habitat for a wide array of wildlife in the city, including birds, butterflies, amphibians, and various plant species. Once inside this little oasis, you'll find a welcome escape from the bustling city of London just beyond its boundaries, and you might even forget you're still in the urban landscape while surrounded by its natural beauty.

Kew Gardens offers a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle, providing a much-needed opportunity to immerse oneself in nature. Stroll through the plant-filled outdoor gardens and wander amidst the towering trees. A highlight of the gardens is undoubtedly the Princess of Wales Conservatory, where ten computer-controlled climate zones and micro-ecosystems make up the space, meaning there are heaps of rare species and beautiful plants endemic to other countries to be marvelled at.

Richmond Park covers a whopping 2,500 acres, which makes it an ideal escape for those who want to immerse themselves in nature away from the bustling city streets. As a designated National Nature Reserve, the park is renowned for its variety of wildlife, notably the free-roaming herds of deer and the fact it is home to the endangered and distinctive Stag Beetle. Its vast green open spaces and park-related activities further enhance its appeal to nature enthusiasts and city dwellers seeking a tranquil moment in nature.

Swimming in Hampstead Heath Ponds is undeniably one of London's most iconic summer activities. The area has around 300 ponds in total with three that are for open-air swimming. Well, actually, it's year-round if you're brave like many of the locals who take a dip no matter the temperature. There are three pools to choose from—ladies, men's, and mixed ponds. It's pretty popular, so booking ahead is advised.

You might imagine soaring skyscrapers and grand monuments when you think of London. Yet it remains lesser-known to many that nearly half of the capital is a vast green space with approximately eight million trees (but you knew that if you read the intro). Amidst the bustling city life, these lush oases offer a respite from the busy city, inviting visitors to embrace peaceful moments. Stroll in any of the forests mentioned in our guide to beautiful woodlands and forests in London.

Every summer, from mid-June to August, the UK's lavender fields burst into a breathtaking carpet of purple hues, filling the air with the melody of happy bees. Drawing visitors from all corners of the country, these lavender farms offer endless rows of the pretty purple stuff, providing picturesque backdrops for photos, lovely spots for a family day out, and a much-needed respite from everyday city life. Take a look at our guide to lavender fields near London to pick your next visit.

Experience the beauty of nature right in the city at Walthamstow Wetlands. Spanning a vast 211 hectares, this site is an internationally significant nature reserve and reservoir, offering an essential habitat for wildlife. Enjoy strolling around the area or opt for one of the events they regularly host, from bush-crafting workshops to bat walks.

Glamping is a great way to enjoy nature without the added stress of taking all your camping gear with you. Unwind and reconnect with nature while still making the most of the small luxuries of modern life. There are numerous glamping options to pick from in the picturesque countryside surrounding London, with most just a short drive away and some easily reachable via public transport. Take a look at our guide to the best glamping spots near London to start planning your next trip.

There are plenty of hidden gems along the UK coast, all just a stone's throw away from the capital, which is an excellent way to enjoy a slice of nature by the sea without having to board a flight. Whether you're a local in search of an easy staycation or just a visitor looking to enjoy a day at the beach, our guide to the best beaches near London will help you pick your next sandy trip.

Walking is an excellent way to enjoy fresh air, exercise, and discover hidden corners of the city that might otherwise go unnoticed. London offers an array of beautiful walking routes, ranging from those that transport you to countryside-like settings to those right in the bustle of the city. Whether you prefer lengthier excursions or shorter strolls, there's a walk to suit every type of walker in our guide to London's loveliest walks.

London might not be as cyclist-friendly as its European siblings, but the capital still boasts a thriving community of riders, ranging from those who rely on their bikes for daily commuting to individuals who love to enjoy the occasional leisurely ride. Thankfully, the city offers some fantastic cycle routes waiting to be explored that are all chock full of nature, just take a look at our guide to the best cycle routes in London to pick your next one.

The rivers and canals that meander through the city have played an integral role in shaping London's epic history, and one of the best ways to explore them is by hiring a boat. Luckily for you, our comprehensive guide to boat hire in London lists a wide selection of hire opportunities, from exploring the charming canals in a self-driving boat to enjoying a luxurious cruise along the Thames. Whether you seek an adrenaline-fuelled river ride or a peaceful cruise down the canal, we've got you covered.

Throughout the year, you can enjoy fruit and veg picking, with each season offering its own produce. Come June, you can fill your punnet with juicy strawberries, while September rewards you with a healthy harvest of apples, pumpkins, and squashes. As December approaches, you can even choose your very own local homegrown Christmas tree. Just take a look at our guide to fruit picking in and around London to find the best places to go.

When spring arrives, the city undergoes a pink transformation with cherry blossom trees bursting into full bloom. Throughout the capital, you can see hundreds of cherry blossom trees, but knowing where to find them is the real challenge. That's where our guide to where you can see the cherry blossoms in London comes in handy. Give it a read if you fancy seeing the pink explosion of cherry blossoms in full bloom across the city.

There are a handful of places in London where you can enjoy a scenic horse ride, such as the pretty paths of Hyde Park and the leafy trails of Wimbledon.  In fact, we've got a guide that'll tell you all the best places to take the reins and enjoy a peaceful ride in London, so have a read if you fancy a spot of trotting through the city.