We thought summer 2021 might never arrive.
Mercifully, sunshine and warmer temperatures are now forecast ahead of this bank holiday weekend running Saturday, May 29-Monday, May 31, so what better chance to explore some of south London's most incredible and beautiful green spaces.
Here's our (entirely subjective) rundown:
1. Richmond Park
Richmond Park at dawn. Image: Royal Parks via Twitter
The big one. By far and away London's biggest green space is also, surely, its most spectacular. Home to herds of majestic deer, enchanting woodlands and one of England's oldest trees (the mythical, dreamlike 'Royal Oak', said to be up to 750 years' old). Bring sturdy shoes, get lost and find yourself again (ideally near one of the exists).
2. Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park. Image: Sam via Flickr cc
For our money this stunning green space offers the best views of London in the city (sorry Hampstead). The sprawling hill gives way to Thames-side Greenwich Naval College and Maritime Museum, the spiritual home of the Royal Navy. Meanwhile if you prefer to climb, you'll find yourself with aforementioned views at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich and the home of Earth's meridian, the line from where the world's clocks are set. An incredible park.
3. Kew Gardens
The waterlily house. Image: Jim Linwood via Flickr cc
A hop, skip and a jump from its bigger brother in Richmond Park, the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew are more intimate and, dare we say it, more beautiful? They're pretty in an altogether different way certainly, and with the world-famous greenhouses offering some of the most miraculous botany you can see in the UK, what's stopping you?
4. Putney Heath and Wimbledon Common
Putney Heath and Wimbledon Comnon. Image: N Chadwick / geograph
Surprisingly rugged and full of charming glades and beautiful banks of trees, these sprawling green spaces in the south west of the city are one's to explore for hours and hours on end, sandwiches and sunscreen permitting.
5. Crystal Palace Park
Crystal Palace Dinosaur Park. Image: Loz Pycock via Flickr cc
The only park on our list featuring actual dinosaurs (OK, they're scale models) Crystal Palace Park has more, far more, than just those unmoving creatures to entertain you. Try a jaw-droppingly beautiful maze and the eerie foundations of the namesake palace itself for starters.
6. Nunhead Cemetery
Nunhead Cemetary. Image: Ashley Van Haeften via Flickr cc
You will be forgiven for thinking you have wandered into a previous century on stepping inside this south east London gem. Haunting, mystical, magical are all words that seem entirely appropriate among the ruins of tombs and monuments from ages past.
7. Danson Park
Danson Park. Image via commons.wikimedia.org
Perhaps less popular than some of the other entries on our list, that just adds to this south east London haven's charm (and possibly means fewer crowds to negotiate too). Don't miss the stunning, Jane Austen-esque 18th century manor house, or the kids' adventure park.
8. Wandsworth Common
Wandsworth Common. Image: Herry Lawford via Flickr cc
Another green space perched on the banks of the Thames, the avenue of trees that line the common make for some stunning vistas (and photos if you're so inclined). The huge, gently sloping interior meanwhile hosts numerous circles of friends and a friendly, communal vibe.
9. Hutchinson's Bank
Image: Steve Evans via Google Maps
Croydon and Bromley share this nature reserve that will be loved by animal enthusiasts and keen walkers alike.
10. Battersea Park
The Old English Garden at Battersea Park. Image: commons.wikimedia.org
This huge (200 acre) Victorian park carries its 19th century charm alongside it's frequently gorgeous riverside promenade, large lake and the renowned Children's Zoo for littler people.
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