Guide to the best outdoor activities in London

Come rain or shine, Londoners never hesitate to get stuck into a little outside swimming, and there's an abundance of excellent outdoor swimming options. From spacious lidos and heated pools that stay open into the evening to picturesque natural ponds, London isn't short of swimming spots, and it's one of the best ways to enjoy an outdoor activity in the city.

Regent's Park Open Air Theatre is an award-winning London venue renowned for its grandeur, boasting a whopping seating capacity of 1,304. Nestled amidst the trees, its fan-shaped auditorium creates an alluring backdrop for a variety of performances that run for 18 weeks of the year, ranging from musicals and plays to productions tailored for young audiences. The theatre's acclaimed shows often also embark on global tours, attracting talents such as Benedict Cumberbatch, Ralph Fiennes, and Judi Dench. 

During the summer in London, outdoor cinemas draw crowds for a cinematic adventure. From lush parks and rooftop venues to historical landmarks and even open-air screens along the canal, the city offers various settings and films to suit all tastes. Whether you want to cosy up with a blanket for an evening screening or you'd rather lay out a picnic blanket with the family, London has its fair share of outdoor screens to cater to all situations.

Immerse yourself in nature at Kew Gardens, a haven offering a serene escape from the city's hectic hustle and bustle. Stroll amidst majestic trees and lose yourself in the enchanting outdoor gardens. Among the highlights, the Princess of Wales Conservatory steals the show, complete with ten computer-controlled climate zones and a collection of fascinating micro-ecosystems. Kew Gardens provides a much-needed respite from busy city life.

Urban farms are scattered all across the capital in locations you may not have even considered. Whether you want to feast on homegrown, seasonal produce or get up close to cute farmyard animals, you can do this and more at any of the city's working farms. From Hackney City Farm to Stepney City Farm and beyond, you'll find them all over the capital, all offering an excellent way to connect with nature amidst the frantic vibe of the busy city.

When the weather plays ball, taking a walk is an excellent way to enjoy fresh air, exercise, and discover hidden gems in the city. From countryside-like escapes to routes winding straight through the city sights, London's got its fair share of walking trails. Whether you prefer longer hikes or shorter strolls, there's a walk to suit everyone – just take a look at our guide to London's loveliest walks to find your next route.

While London may not be as cycle-friendly as certain other cities, that doesn't deter Londoners from jumping on two wheels as their means of transport. The capital accommodates for a diverse biking community, offering some fantastic cycle routes in all corners of the city. Taking a leisurely cycle is a wonderful way to spend time outside and see a part of the city you might not have seen. Looking for the perfect route? Check out our guide to the best cycle routes in the capital.

Despite London's well-earned reputation as a concrete jungle, there's plenty of choice when it comes to the more traditional natural jungle as well. Some eight million trees can be found across the capital, and our guide to beautiful forests and woodlands in London shows you where to go to give some of them a hug, get some steps in, and fill your lungs with fresh air.

Embrace the equestrian spirit and embark on a horse riding adventure in London. This engaging activity offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in nature amidst the city's hustle and bustle. Not only does horse riding provide a refreshing escape, but it also promotes mental relaxation and serves as a fantastic overall workout. Discover the thrill of riding through Hyde Park, alongside the picturesque Serpentine Lake, or amidst the leafy surroundings of Wimbledon. 

No matter how old you are, Go Ape offers an opportunity to unleash your inner child and enjoy an exhilarating treetop adventure. With multiple park locations in London, there's a chance for everyone to participate. Whether it's a memorable family outing, a kids' birthday party, or a team-building event, Go Ape provides a range of treetop adventures and exciting zip-wire experiences to push your limits.

The Castle Climbing Centre in Stoke Newington, the largest climbing centre in the UK, was originally a grand Victorian water pumping station and is now one of London's premier climbing destinations. It caters to all levels of climbers, from beginners to experienced adventurers, and includes an outdoor garden with boulders for those who prefer climbing in the open air.

You can escape the routine of grocery shopping by picking your own produce at farms in and around London, offering a more authentic and tranquil experience. Fruit and vegetable picking is available throughout the year, with each season presenting different opportunities, from strawberries in June to apples and pumpkins in September, and even Christmas trees in December.

Cruise along the river in a GoBoat, where you can hop on board with up to eight people, even if none of you have any prior boating expertise. Climb aboard the eco-friendly electric boats, complete with convenient picnic tables, and feel free to bring some snacks and drinks for the journey. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the city as you cruise down the water and see London from a different perspective.

In London, you may not always have clear blue skies, but there are numerous places for al fresco dining when the weather says so. Whether you prefer a rooftop terrace overlooking the city or sidewalk tables where you can people-watch, the city has a wealth of outdoor dining spots to offer, which make for a wonderful way to spend a little bit of time outside. Take a look at our guide to outdoor restaurants for plenty of options.

With 47% of its urban landscape dedicated to parks and green spaces and a whopping 3,000 parks designated as public open space, it's fair to say that London has earned its reputation as one of the greenest capitals in the world. So, if you're in search of the ideal spot to enjoy a lovely picnic, you're in luck; there are parks dotted all over the city, far and wide, and we have a whole guide dedicated to it.

London's food markets are renowned worldwide for their fresh produce, diverse offerings, and laid-back vibe, making them an integral part of city life. Many of them are located outside and make for a pleasant weekend activity where you get to sample some of the best cuisine in the capital. Check out our guide to food markets to find your next stop.

Visiting Columbia Road Flower Market on a Sunday has become an iconic London tradition. The streets come alive as bright blooms and foliage from across the country line the street in market stalls, and the melodies of buskers fill the air. Along the road, sixty independent businesses lure visitors in, from cafes and bakeries to ceramic shops and more.