London Walks Archives - Walking Academy

London, the vibrant capital of England, is not just a bustling metropolis of culture, history, and iconic landmarks—it's also a surprisingly green city, offering walkers an array of trails and open spaces to explore. From tranquil riverside paths along the Thames to sprawling royal parks, London’s diverse walking routes combine natural beauty with a rich historical tapestry. Its extensive network of green spaces and waterways makes it possible to escape the urban hustle and find peace amidst woodlands, gardens, and heathlands, all while remaining close to the city’s heartbeat. The city’s heritage is woven into its walking routes, with trails that lead past landmarks such as the Tower Bridge, Hampton Court Palace, and Greenwich’s Royal Observatory. Beyond the history, London’s neighborhoods and parks reveal their own unique charm—from the panoramic views atop Primrose Hill and Parliament Hill to the tranquil canal-side paths of Little Venice. Whether you're looking to explore world-famous sights or uncover hidden pockets of green, London offers an incredible variety of walks to suit all tastes and abilities. The Top 10 Walks In London 1. Thames Path: Richmond to Hampton Court Start/End Point: Richmond Riverside / Hampton Court Palace Distance: 7 miles (11.3 km) Terrain: Riverside paths, urban green spaces Difficulty: Easy Notable Landmark: Hampton Court Palace A scenic walk along the Thames, passing historic bridges, parks, and ending at the magnificent Hampton Court Palace. 2. Hampstead Heath Circular Walk Start/End Point: Hampstead Heath Station Distance: 6 miles (9.6 km) Terrain: Woodland trails, open heathland Difficulty: Moderate Notable Landmark: Parliament Hill Viewpoint Explore the diverse landscapes of Hampstead Heath, including panoramic city views from Parliament Hill. 3. The Jubilee Greenway: Little Venice to Camden Lock Start/End Point: Little Venice / Camden Market Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km) Terrain: Canal towpaths, urban streets Difficulty: Easy Notable Landmark: Regent's Canal A peaceful walk along Regent’s Canal, featuring colorful houseboats and the bustling atmosphere of Camden Market. 4. Richmond Park Circular Walk Start/End Point: Richmond Gate Distance: 7 miles (11.3 km) Terrain: Parkland, grassy paths Difficulty: Moderate Notable Landmark: Pembroke Lodge Gardens Discover London's largest Royal Park, home to free-roaming deer, ancient woodlands, and stunning vistas. 5. South Bank Walk: Tower Bridge to Westminster Start/End Point: Tower Bridge / Westminster Bridge Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km) Terrain: Riverside paths, paved walkways Difficulty: Easy Notable Landmark: London Eye A quintessential London walk along the Thames, taking in iconic landmarks like the London Eye and Shakespeare’s Globe. 6. Wimbledon Common and Putney Heath Walk Start/End Point: Wimbledon Village Distance: 5 miles (8 km) Terrain: Heathland, woodland paths Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Notable Landmark: Wimbledon Windmill Wander through this sprawling natural oasis, featuring open heathland, wooded trails, and the charming Wimbledon Windmill. 7. Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill Walk Start/End Point: Regent's Park Inner Circle Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km) Terrain: Park paths, gentle slopes Difficulty: Easy Notable Landmark: Primrose Hill Viewpoint A relaxing stroll through Regent’s Park, culminating in stunning views of London from Primrose Hill. 8. The Green Chain Walk: Crystal Palace to Oxleas Wood Start/End Point: Crystal Palace Park / Oxleas Wood Distance: 6 miles (9.6 km) Terrain: Woodlands, open fields Difficulty: Moderate Notable Landmark: Crystal Palace Dinosaurs A peaceful suburban route through south-east London’s hidden green spaces and ancient woodlands. 9. Epping Forest Walk Start/End Point: Chingford Station Distance: 8 miles (12.9 km) Terrain: Woodland trails, grassy fields Difficulty: Moderate Notable Landmark: Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge A lush, forested walk in London’s largest open space, offering a serene escape from urban life. 10. Thames Barrier to Greenwich Walk Start/End Point: Thames Barrier / Greenwich Distance: 5 miles (8 km) Terrain: Riverside paths, urban parks Difficulty: Easy Notable Landmark: Greenwich Park A fascinating riverside walk showcasing maritime history and ending at the iconic Greenwich Park and Royal Observatory. Summary - Top 10 Walks In London We hope you enjoy this list of walks and look forward to trying some of them out on your next visit to London. Why not take a look at other counties too when planning other trips.