Wrap up warm and head out for a walk from your London serviced apartment.
Many people head into London for brightly-lit, bustling Christmas markets and January sales. Or, to purchase those gifts you simply can’t find anywhere else. Yet winter in London at a serviced apartment can mean so much more than shopping. There are a wealth of green spaces and walks perfect for outdoor time, even on the coldest days.
If you’re getting a little fed up with the bustling high streets and busy roads, why not work off a bit of that winter stress? There are lots of places to see, even close to the city centre.
Winter is a great time to see all London has to offer. The city’s green spaces can be quieter than in the summertime. Plus, you can get a wonderfully different perspective on all the capital has to offer. Here are our picks for the best winter walks in and around London. So, why not wrap up warm and enjoy a crisp winter’s day walk during your stay?
1. Waterlow Park
This is one of London’s hidden delights, a 20-acre green space. Three ponds are perfect for spotting winter wildlife. If it’s snowing, bring a sledge and join in the fun on the hills. Bring a flask to keep you warm, and break your walk with a stop on one of the many benches to watch the world go by, stopping to enjoy the view and open space.
It’s right next to Highgate Cemetery, so stay out a little longer and take in the atmosphere of the historic cemetery to extend your winter stroll before heading back to your luxury central London serviced apartment for a hot chocolate or another warming winter drink.
2. Greenwich Park
The views from the top of Greenwich Park make these a must-do winter’s day walk. The space is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and delights in the south of the park, such as the bandstand, deer park and pond, look spectacular on a frosty winter’s day.
3. Ham House and Garden
A delightful opportunity to walk and learn about the rich history of this magnificent home. These 17th-century gardens look spectacular in their winter glory, and they also offer guided tours if you want to learn more about the house’s long history and pop inside for a while.
4. Walthamstow Wetlands
This magnificent nature reserve is worth a winter visit, and is close to Tottenham Hale tube station, so you should have no problem getting here from your luxurious London serviced apartment. In the centre is a Grade II-listed Coppermill Tower viewing platform, ideal for getting your bearings amongst the ten reservoirs. Wildlife, flora and fauna certainly don’t disappoint in one of Europe’s biggest urban wetlands, perfect for quiet time after a busy festive period.
5. Regents Canal
Connecting the Grand Union Canal to the River Thames, the canal side offers some delightful winter walks. You get to see locks and Broadway Market and can stop at one of the cafes on the way for a warming winter drink. The canal gives access to Victoria Park and the Chinese pagoda within the boating lake. You may even see model boats sailing on the East Lake.
6. Richmond Park
If you are looking for larger wildlife, Richmond Park gives you the perfect opportunity to see deer. You can walk the entire 7.5-mile perimeter following the Tasmin Trail or shortcut to a grade II listed pub, The Old Ship, breaking up the walk with a meal or drink.
7. The Line
Take a break from the green areas and follow some or all of London’s first public art routes. Featuring artists Damien Hurst, Eva Rothschild, Anthony Gormley and others, this walk can take around three hours. Travel on the Emirates Air Line and soak up the culture and river views. Barge East offers European taste bites if you fancy a treat.
8. The Thames
We finish with perhaps the most famous, a walk along the Thames will bring you the chance to stop and watch some of the street performers. You can choose how far to go, and there are plenty of stops, including classic pubs, and some will welcome your dog too.
Where to stay
For those looking for the perfect place to stay for a winter break, choosing one of the central London serviced apartments we can provide will give you a great base from which to explore the greener parts of the city. Plus, you’ll enjoy the comforts that make returning back after your walk an absolute delight.
