London can be a hectic place to visit, never mind to live in. The daily hustle and bustle can be exhausting as you try to get from A to B, but the city also has many parks and peaceful spots where you can go and truly escape to get a real sense of tranquillity.
Parks and areas of beauty have become hugely important in recent years, more so than ever before, as people look to take their minds off the day. Stress levels, addiction, and depression are all rising, and being on a packed tube during rush hour, spending lunch by your desk, or having no quiet space to kick back and relax is not going to help.
It can be hard to find a calm sanctuary in major cities, and many people fall foul of that, ending up going through a rehab clinic because they’ve succumbed to the pub and alcohol rather than finding the time to look after their mental health.
So, for anyone wanting to take half an hour, an hour, or even a whole afternoon to get a bit of tranquillity in London, here are your five best options…
The Regent’s Canal is one of the best urban spots for peace and tranquillity. Stretching from Paddington in the west to Limehouse Basin in the east, it is 8.6 miles of calm water and greenery, with bridges and locks along the path. This is the perfect spot for an afternoon stroll or a morning of contemplation.
St. James’s Park is an iconic central London park, nestled between Buckingham Palace and Westminster. It is the oldest of the eight Royal Parks and has been a popular spot for centuries. With its winding pathways, lush green gardens, and peaceful lake, this is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.
Hampstead Heath is a huge area of parkland in north London. This expansive landscape is full of rolling hills, green fields, and tranquil woodland. There are plenty of spots to sit and soak up the peaceful atmosphere, as well as plenty of activities to enjoy. From swimming in the ponds to exploring the heathland, this is the perfect place for an afternoon of relaxation.
Richmond Park is a beautiful park in South West London, with plenty of wildlife, wildflowers, and rolling hills. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic on a spring day, as well as a great option for fully escaping the city and entering the suburbs.
The town of Richmond is also worth a stroll through, with quaint cafes, lovely restaurants, and plenty of leafy parks to enjoy as the River Thames rolls through.
Burgess Park is a large park in South London, full of wild meadows, wetlands, and grassy areas. It’s a great place to sit and watch the wildlife or go for a peaceful stroll. It’s also a great spot for birdwatchers, with over 140 species of birds recorded.