Walking in London : Park, heath and waterside - 25 walks in London's green spaces

From the Royal Parks and Hampstead Heath to hidden marshes, forests, and nature reserves, London reveals itself as a city where nature thrives, offering walkers of all levels the chance to discover rare wildlife, local history, and tranquil escapes in both the heart of the capital and its outskirts. Ideal for both beginners and experienced walkers, this guide features 25 routes ranging from 6 to 21km (4–14 miles), each designed to be completed in 2–6 hours. Whether you're seeking a gentle stroll through leafy parks or a full-day adventure along rivers and heaths, these walks are easily reached by public transport and can be split into shorter sections, making them perfect for city dwellers and visitors alike. Experience iconic highlights like Hyde Park, Wimbledon Common, and Hampstead Heath alongside lesser-known gems such as Rainham Marshes in the east, Enfield Chase in the north, and the wild downlands on the city's southern fringe. Each walk includes a 1:25,000 OS map extract, downloadable GPX files, route summary, start and finish points, estimated walking time, and detailed information on parking, public transport, refreshments, and local interest groups. Discover London's remarkable wildlife as each route highlights a plant or animal species you might encounter—from elusive water birds on Rainham Marshes to majestic stags in Bushy Park and ancient trees in Sydenham Hill Wood. With over 600 miles of signed footpaths to explore and break points along the way, you can enjoy each walk at your own pace and discover a new side of the city with every step.