London's Top Picnic Spots

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With the temperature getting warmer and the days getting longer, it's the perfect time to have a picnic. Despite being a city, London is considered one of the greenest metropolitan areas in the world. You're spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a picnic spot. From hidden gems such as Kenwood to the Royal Parks like Richmond and St James's, there's bound to be a park for everyone. Can't decide where to have your picnic? I've rounded up the best eight parks in London to make your decision a little easier.

1. Primrose Hill

No list of London picnic spots would be complete without a mention of Primrose Hill. Reaching 213 feet, Primrose Hill is famous for giving stunning views over central London. While the park itself is fairly small, there are numerous places to put down your blanket, and you might even spot a celebrity or two. There is also plenty to do in the surrounding area, for example visiting London Zoo (which is literally across the road from Primrose Hill), taking photos of the colourful houses in nearby Chalcot Square, or walking along Regent's Canal.

2. Hampstead Heath

Hampstead Heath covers almost 800 acres of North West London and features swimming ponds, sprawling woodlands and lakes. It's a favourite for the dog owners and avid runners of Hampstead and Highgate, and is easy to get to - you can either take the overground to Hampstead Heath Station or the Northern Line to Hampstead Station.

3. Kenwood

While Kenwood may not be as well-known as some of the other parks on this list, it can still get quite busy during the summer, especially on the rare occasions when the sun decides to make an appearance. Kenwood is in Zone 3 but it has the feel of the English countryside, so you'll soon forget that you're in a major city.

4. St James's Park

St James's Park is often overshadowed by the more famous Hyde Park and Regent's Park. However, this doesn't mean that St James's Park isn't worth visiting. St James's Park is the ideal venue for a picnic after a long day of exploring London's major attractions. It is just a short walk from Big Ben, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square, so you don't even have to worry about taking public transport.

5. Soho Square Gardens

For something a bit different, why not try Soho Gardens? This tiny green area dates back to 1681 and is a popular lunchtime retreat for people who work in the West End or want a break from shopping in Oxford Street. Be sure to head there early since Soho Square gets busy pretty quickly. Oh, and don't miss out on the free open-air concerts that are held in the gardens every summer.

6. Richmond

With over 8.5km of grassland, it's not surprising that there is always something to do in Richmond Park. Whether it's trying to spot the deer and swans, hiring a bike, or admiring the Isabella Plantation, you could easily spend an entire day in Richmond Park. Once you've explored the park, find a quiet picnic spot by the Oak Trees and tuck in.

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