Unwind and connect with nature in some of London’s green spaces away from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan life
Mudchute Park and Farm, Isle of Dogs
Decamp to this 32-acre, community-run park in east London – complete with its own equestrian centre, working farm and resident sheep, goats, pigs and Dexter cattle. There are also donkeys and llamas to complete the city farm experience, along with the Mudchute Kitchen overlooking the horses.
The Parkland Walk, Finsbury Park
This north London trail is a leafy haven for city slickers. The longest linear nature reserve in London, it comprises a shady canopy of trees running 4km from Finsbury Park up to Highgate, allowing walkers to follow the former railway line that once connected Finsbury Park to Alexandra Palace.
Barbican Conservatory, EC2
Hidden on the upper levels of this Brutalist icon is an indoor rainforest retreat. Open on select Sundays, the lush space is home to 2,000 species of tropical fl ora and fauna – from orchids to banana plants. It’s the perfect way to while away an afternoon. Don’t miss the ponds of koi carp and terrapins.
Island Gardens, Isle of Dogs
Take in the impressive view of Greenwich from across the Thames in this tranquil riverside park. There are three acres of green space to be enjoyed, along with tables and benches and a park café, or the bustle of Greenwich is a short stroll along the foot tunnel under the river.
Treetop walkway, Kew Gardens
Climb 18 metres above the forest floor at Kew Gardens to explore its treetop walkway. The 200-metre long structure weaves among a canopy of trees, offering views across the gardens and an immersive look at the ecosystem of birds, insects, lichens and fungi that exists up there.
