This is a post about walking routes in London.
I know London is a big city with a massive tube (subway) system. But don’t be fooled! London is actually a very walkable city. In fact, it’s one of the best cities to explore on foot. When the weather warms up, there’s no better way to experience its history, green spaces and hidden corners than with a self-guided walk. From royal parks and riverside strolls to vibrant neighbourhoods and iconic landmarks, these walks offer something for everyone.
The other day I shared a self-guided walk through the iconic Southbank. From Westminster tube (which is right across the Big Ben!) all the way to London Bridge. But the weather’s been so lovely, it’s really inspired me to think of some other walking routes in London for the coming spring/summer.
Let me know in the comments if you want to know more about any of these!
Regent’s Canal Walk
For a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle, walk along Regent’s Canal. Start at Little Venice by Warwick Avenue tube, where colourful boats line the waterways and follow the path on the way to Camden Town. The route is lined with independent cafés, waterside pubs and plenty of scenic spots for a break.
Stop at Cafe Laville for a delicious pizza right on the canal! Then keep going to Regents Park. You can either choose to explore Regents Park, go to the London Zoo or cross over to Primrose Hill.
At Primrose Hill, head up to the top for a beautiful view of London. In the warmer months it’s a popular spot to sit and have a picnic watching London go by.
Stroll towards Regents Park Road for the lovely Primrose Hill village. If you’re lucky you’ll find some delicious Brazilian cheese bread at The Little One Coffee Shop at the end of the road before taking the bridge on to Camden Town.
Hampstead Heath and Parliament Hill
Sticking to North London, Hampstead Heath offers some of the best views of London. Start at Hampstead tube station and explore Hampstead Village. Fuel up on the super popular crepes from Le Crêperie de Hampstead down Gayton Road and Well Walk into the park.
Climb Parliament Hill for panoramic views of the city skyline. Lastly, wander towards Kenwood House, a historic stately home surrounded by peaceful gardens.
If you’re feeling energised, leave the Heath via the northeast exits and head to Highgate for a second leg of nature walk at Queen’s Wood.
The Royal Parks Walk
I’ll give you two routes for this one:
- For a walk filled with greenery, history and royal landmarks, start by Lancaster Gate station and explore the beautifully landscaped spaces, including the Italian Gardens. Head down past the Peter Pan statue and on to the Serpentine Gallery. Continue east then head towards Green Park and finish in St. James’s Park, where you’ll get a stunning view of Buckingham Palace.
- Alternatively, start on the other side by the Marble Arch entrance. Take the path past the Speaker’s Corner and Reformer’s Tree down to the water where you. can hire a boat if you wish. On the other side of it you’ll find the Serpentine lido and the Diana Memorial Fountain. Head towards the Serpentine and on to Kensington Palace before exiting via Kensington Palace Green. Go straight through York House Pl, Holland St and Duchess of Bedford’s Walk and arrive at Holland Park.
Notting Hill and Portobello Road
Speaking of Holland Park… its neighbouring Notting Hill is one of the prettiest areas to explore on foot, especially in spring and summer when the colourful houses and wisteria-covered façades are in full bloom. Start at Ladbroke Grove and walk along Portobello Road, stopping at its famous market. Nowadays it’s always busy, especially on Fridays and Saturdays when the full street market is on.
If you’re hungry or just want to stop for a coffee, there’s no shortage of options around. I highly recommend the crazy delicious Buns From Home.
Wander through the charming side streets like Westbourne Grove and Lancaster Road before ending in the peaceful Holland Park. Westbourne Grove is also a great shout for a lunch break! How about some tacos from Taqueria? Or the most delicious praline brown butter pancake you’ll ever have at Sunday in Brooklyn?!
Kingston to Richmond
I love both of these walks! They’re so quiet and away from the hustle. Feels like you’re in the countryside.
- Riverside: in about an hour and a half you can walk from Kingston’s riverside to Terrace Gardens in Richmond. Terrace Gardens has the best sunset view in London during the winter months by the way! And that’s pretty much it – a long walk by the river with a big green space in-between you and civilisation. You can also come off it for a minute to stop by for Swiss goodies at the Swiss Bread Bakery and Café!
- Alternatively, from Kingston station head up to the Kingston Gate entrance of Richmond Park and in about an hour you’ll cross the whole park and exit on Richmond Hill. Just a few steps away from Terrace Gardens!
Putney Riverside & Hammersmith Loop
In about 1:20hr you can go from Putney Bridge to Hammersmith Bridge and back via the other side. May not sound very exciting but it’s a really lovely, peaceful walk!
From Putney Bridge station, come out and head to Hurlingham Books to admire this iconic second hand bookshop and maybe buy a book or ten.
Head towards the bridge and cross underneath it. You’ll come out at Bishops Park and all you have to do is keep going north by the river all the way to Hammersmith Bridge! The closer you get, the nicer it’ll get as there are lots of new buildings around the area.
If you feel like celeb-spotting, The River Cafe is the place for you. Your wallet might not enjoy it though. A couple of alternatives are the popular Crabtree pub and Sam’s Riverside. I had really great food at the pub! Not so much at Sam’s but they did do the most amazing lavender mojito!
Cross Hammersmith Bridge and you’ll be in Castlenau. Just head back down by the riverside and you’ll get to Putney Bridge in no time. The Boathouse in Putney Wharf is a great spot for unwinding at the end!
The City of London Walk
For those interested in history and architecture, a self-guided walk through the City of London is a must. Start the Tate Modern and cross Millennium Bridge for a stunning view of St Paul’s Cathedral. Walk through the historic streets towards Leadenhall Market, a hidden Victorian gem, then head to the Tower of London and finish at Tower Bridge.
Greenwich and the Thames Path
Greenwich is one of London’s most historic neighbourhoods, and it’s perfect for a self-guided walk. Start at the Cutty Sark, explore the Old Royal Naval College and climb up to Greenwich Park for breathtaking views over Canary Wharf. Walk along the Thames Path towards the O2, or take a detour through the charming streets of Greenwich Market.
Did you know you can also cross to the north side of the river via a tunnel under it? Only in Greenwich!
Soho, Covent Garden and Seven Dials
For a mix of culture, shopping and history, a walk through Soho, Covent Garden and Seven Dials is a great option. Start in Soho’s lively streets, where you’ll find independent bookshops, cafés and street art. Walk towards Covent Garden to see its famous piazza and street performers, then finish in Seven Dials, a hidden corner of London filled with boutique stores and cosy pubs.
I LOVE walking around Soho! There’s always such a great vibe! I’d recommend an early morning on a weekday as the best time for a calm stroll without the crowds. However, if you really want to see Soho come alive, afternoon/evening are your go to.
Seven Dials Market is also a great place to stop for food! It’s an indoor market with all kinds of food options like Thai, pizza, treats and the wonderful Chai Guys. Although Soho and Covent Garden in general have SO many really great options! Should I do a food guide for both? I think I will…
The London Mews Walk
London’s mews streets are some of its best-kept secrets, with quiet cobbled lanes and beautifully restored former stables. Start in Paddington’s Bathurst Mews, then head towards Notting Hill, where streets like St. Luke’s Mews and Colville Mews offer picturesque views. South Kensington is another great area for exploring hidden mews streets, with Kynance Mews being one of the prettiest in the city. In fact, Kynance Mews and Ensor Mews are both popular in the spring for wisteria-spotting!
London is a city best explored on foot, and these walks offer a mix of history, nature and vibrant culture, making them perfect for the warmer seasons. Whether you’re looking for scenic river views, green parks or hidden gems, there’s a walk for every mood.
This was a post about walking routes in London.