Top 7 Best London walks

Picture pretty South-Bank Walk

One of the best River Thames walks, the South Bank London walk starts at Westminster Bridge, looking towards the Houses of Parliament, and is an easy walk all the way to Tower Bridge (approx 2.5 miles / 4km in total). Here is the best itinerary for the walk…

• The Houses of Parliament and Westminster Bridge: Let’s explore the fascinating South Bank walk that commences at the southern tip of Westminster Bridge, offering a captivating view of The Houses of Parliament (also known as the Palace of Westminster). The nearest London Underground station is Westminster.
• County Hall and its attractions: As you stroll eastward along the South Bank, you’ll notice County Hall on your right. Constructed in 1922 with a baroque architectural style, this building once served as the headquarters for the London Council. However, it has since transformed into a hub of entertainment and attractions.
• London Eye: The South Bank London Eye offers a 30-minute rotation, and we highly recommend booking in advance, especially during peak seasons. Additionally, keep an eye out for special events within the capsules—these can range from pop-up pubs to yoga sessions. 🎡🌆🍻🧘‍♀️
• London South Bank Walk activity: If you’ve got some spare time and don’t mind taking a slight detour, make your way to the Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel near Waterloo Station. We’d give it a solid rating as one of London’s most Instagrammable spots. 📸🎨🚇
• Between The Bridges: After the London Eye, your next stop will probably be the Between the Bridges pop-up food court and performance area. Here, you’ll find an array of bars, food kiosks, and amusements. 🎡🍔🎶
• Southbank Centre and Festival Hall / Food Market:
•  As you continue your London South Bank walk, you’ll encounter two prominent performance venues: the Southbank Centre and the Royal Festival Hall. These cultural hubs host a myriad of artistic events, from concerts to exhibitions, making them essential stops for any art enthusiast.
• The BFI / Southbank Centre Book Market
• National Theatre: Just a few steps away from the book-sellers, you’ll encounter a statue of Sir Laurence Olivier, which signifies your arrival at the National Theatre. While opinions on the building’s exterior may vary, step inside, and you’ll find a warm and inviting atmosphere. The performances staged here are among the finest you’ll ever witness. 🎭🏛️🌟
•  Gabriel’s Wharf derives its name from a woodworking family business established by Christopher Gabriel during the early 19th century. Back then, this very site served as a bustling timber yard. Fast forward to today, and Gabriel’s Wharf has transformed into a vibrant Southbank restaurant and cafe complex. Bursting with character, it boasts beautiful illustrations adorning the wharf walls, along with an array of colourful kiosks and delis. A delightful blend of history and contemporary charm awaits those who visit! ☕🎨🛶
• Oxo Tower / Wharf: The Oxo Tower not only boasts several arts and crafts shops (along with a gallery) on its first two floors but also offers a delightful wharf outside—perfect for capturing a snapshot. And if you’re seeking panoramic views of London, the Oxo Tower ranks among the finest. 🏙️📸🎨
• Doggetts Coat and Badge Pub: Savor a pint along the River Thames at the renowned Doggett’s Coat and Badge pub, nestled near Blackfriars Bridge.
• Blackfriars Mystery / Vanishing Bridge: As you continue your Southbank walk along the River Thames, keep an eye out for a delightful London oddity. After passing under Blackfriars Bridge, glance back toward the Thames, and you’ll notice a series of red pillars standing in the water. These pillars create an illusion as if a bridge has mysteriously vanished, leaving behind an intriguing visual puzzle. 🌉🔴🧩
• Tate Modern:  Situated within a converted power station, the Tate Modern has evolved into a dynamic hub for modern art. Here, you’ll encounter both permanent galleries and temporary exhibitions. The best part? Admission is free, allowing you to explore the artistic wonders within. Keep in mind that while general entry is complimentary, certain exhibitions may have entrance fees. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring large-scale installations in the entrance hall—they’re always a sight to behold! 🎨🏛️🌟
• Shakespeare’s Globe: Look to your right on this Southbank Walk to see a circular black and white timber building – this is Shakespeare’s Globe.
• Winchester Palace: Once a 12th-century palace, this historic structure served as the residence for the Bishops of Winchester. However, time has taken its toll, and today, it stands as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Tragically, a devastating fire ravaged much of the palace, leaving it in ruins. The echoes of its past grandeur still linger amidst the remnants. 🏰🔥🌿
• The Golden Hinde: Similar to Shakespeare’s Globe, this iconic London landmark is, in fact, a replica of the original ship. Constructed in 1973, it found its mooring spot here in 1996 after an extensive voyage around the globe. The original Golden Hinde, under the command of Sir Francis Drake, set sail in 1577 and gained fame for its remarkable circumnavigation of the world during the 1570s. 🚢🌎⚓
• Hays Galleria: Hays Galleria, a delightful blend of shops, bars, restaurants, and businesses, forms a charming small-scale outdoor shopping center. Perched alongside the Thames River, it offers a picturesque view and boasts a couple of intriguing features. 🛍️🍻🌆

Wander along the towpath through the serene enclave of Little Venice. 🚶‍♂️🌅🛶

Regent’s Canal, christened after the Prince Regent (who would later ascend to the throne as King George IV), made its debut in 1820. London, steeped in royal history, abounds with such connections. Interestingly, the canal meanders across land that once served as the hunting grounds of Henry VIII—a fascinating piece of history. In 1811, the visionary John Nash transformed these grounds into what we now know as the Royal Park. 🌊👑🏰

Start: Little Venice OS Grid ref: TQ262818

Finish: Camden Lock OS Grid ref: TQ286840

Distance: Two miles

 Let’s explore the enchanting Little Venice, where our journey begins. Picture a serene pool surrounded by white stucco-clad Regency houses, their elegance reflected in the water. This delightful oasis is none other than Browning’s Island, named after the esteemed poet Robert Browning, who is believed to have coined the term “Little Venice.”

As you wander, you’ll find boat trips departing from here, and at one end, a charming boat café awaits. But that’s not all—the whimsical Puppet Barge theatre also graces this waterside haven.

Now, follow the towpath beneath the Warwick Avenue Bridge. Ahead lies a captivating scene: boats moored on both sides of the water, their reflections dancing alongside terraces of Regency houses. Some boat owners have cultivated canalside gardens, turning this stretch into a tranquil sanctuary adorned with pots and wisteria. 🚣‍♂️🌸🏡

Let’s embark on a picturesque journey along the Regent’s Canal. Here’s your guide:

1. Start: Follow the road alongside the canal. Just above the Maida Hill Tunnel, cross over Edgware Road to reach Aberdeen Place.
2. Continue: Keep walking until you pass the charming Crocker’s Folly pub on your left. Then, follow the path signposted for the Regent’s Canal and descend down some steep steps to rejoin the towpath.
3. Tranquility: As you pass boat moorings and a couple more road and rail bridges, the scene transforms into one of serene tranquility. The canal gracefully skirts Regent’s Park. Interestingly, both the canal and Regent’s Park were designed by the visionary John Nash. Initially, Nash intended the canal to run through the heart of the park. However, concerns arose that the delicate park residents might be scandalized by the colorful language of the canal builders (known as navvies). Consequently, Nash opted to take the canal around the park’s edge instead.
4. Elegant Mansions: Along the canal, you’ll find elegant white mansions, their gardens and weeping willows cascading down to the water. It’s a compromise that suits canal-goers quite well today!
5. Blow Up Bridge: Keep an eye out for the aptly named ‘Blow Up Bridge’ (bridge no. 9). In 1874, a boat carrying gunpowder bound for the Midlands exploded here, demolishing the original bridge and terrifying local residents. When it was rebuilt, the pillars were turned around, revealing historic rope grooves on both sides.
6. London Zoo: The canal now passes through part of London Zoo. Look for Red River hogs, catch glimpses of the giraffe house, and marvel at the huge aviary housing exotic birds. This aviary is fittingly named after Lord Snowdon, its designer.

As you walk, let history and nature weave their tales along this delightful waterway! 🚣‍♂️🌿🦓

Certainly! As we venture beyond Cumberland Basin, where moored boats and an intriguing Chinese restaurant boat add to the scene, the canal gracefully curves under a series of low road and rail bridges.

Our journey culminates in the bustling, kaleidoscopic neighborhood of Camden. Here, at the heart of Camden, lies the double lock—often referred to as Camden Lock, but technically known as Hampstead Road Lock. Its markets have achieved worldwide acclaim for their joss-stick accessories and perhaps more purple-patterned trousers than anywhere else on this planet! 🛶🌈👖

Step into the lush riverside borough of Richmond

Begin your leisurely stroll at the White Cross pub, and continue along the path, passing through the picturesque rural idyll of Petersham Meadows. Your journey will lead you to the historic Ham House. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of this scenic route! 🌿🏰🚶‍♂️

Explore the tranquil Brompton Cemetery

where 35,000 monuments stand as silent witnesses to history. Among them, you’ll find a tribute to the remarkable suffragette, Emmeline Pankhurst. The shaded pathways invite reflection and discovery—a journey through time and memory. 🌿🗝️🌹

Venture beyond the city and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Highgate Wood. 

 Discover this informal 3.5-kilometer circular trail near the City of London. Widely regarded as an easy route, it typically takes around 54 minutes to complete. Whether you’re into running or leisurely walks, this trail is perfect. Plus, you’ll likely have the path mostly to yourself—ideal for peaceful exploration. And don’t forget, dogs are welcome, and in certain areas, they can even roam off-lead. 🏃‍♂️🐾🌳

Explore Epping Forest and keep an eye out for rare plants and fascinating insects. 🌿🦋🌳

 Epping Forest, owned and managed by the City of London, holds national and international conservation significance. Within its bounds, you’ll discover over 50,000 ancient pollard trees and a network of 100 lakes and ponds. This natural haven is accessible 365 days a year, and best of all, entry is free.

The forest comprises more than 50 distinct areas—a rich tapestry of woodland, grassland, and other diverse habitats. Altogether, these spaces span 2,400 hectares, stretching from Manor Park to the outskirts of Epping.

For an optimal visit, consider starting at one of Epping Forest’s visitor centers. There, you’ll receive assistance with maps, travel information, and details about nearby car parks. Lace up your walking shoes and immerse yourself in this enchanting landscape! 🌳🌲🗺️

Illuminated River

 Illuminated River represents a groundbreaking lighting concept for the Thames bridges in central London. These iconic structures are celebrated not only as architectural marvels but also as social and historical landmarks. The project weaves a symbolic link across the political, financial, and cultural heart of the capital.

Spanning an impressive 3.2 miles, the Illuminated River stretches from London Bridge to Lambeth Bridge, securing its position as the longest public art commission globally. This luminous spectacle is designed to endure for at least ten years, with the Foundation generously covering all costs related to maintenance, replacement, and electricity. 🌉🌟🎨