The best winter walks in London for a frosty stroll

The grassy sprawl of Hampstead Heath makes the perfect setting for a rural walk on a chilly day. Do a loop of the wild green space before stomping up to the dizzying heights of Parliament Hill to gaze at the city views (don't forget your camera). If you're feeling brave enough you can even stop off for a cold plunge in the ponds, or visit Highgate Cemetery to enjoy the peaceful paths and a touch of gothic atmosphere among the famous graves.

Starting point: Hampstead tube

Distance: 6.5 km

Find some peace in the middle of the city with a wintery stroll around Kensington Gardens. There are open green spaces and quiet woodlands to wander through, as well as plenty of pretty spots to pause along the way, from the ornate Albert Memorial to the calm waters of the Serpentine and the stately backdrop of Kensington Palace. Crisp air, wide paths and beautiful views make this an easy, refreshing walk in the winter season. Who knew you could stretch your legs without leaving central London?

Starting point: Kensington Palace gates 

Distance: Approx 3.2 km for a relaxed circular walk

This 20-acre green space is one of the capital’s hidden gems, offering a peaceful escape even on the chilliest days. Three wildlife-friendly ponds make it a great spot for birdwatching, while benches dotted around the park are perfect for pausing to admire just how beautiful London can be. Gentle hills add a bit of adventure to your walk, and if it snows, they become ideal for sledging. Best of all, the park sits right next door to atmospheric Highgate Cemetery, so you can easily extend your winter wander with a stroll among its winding paths and historic tombs.

Starting point: Archway Underground Station (5–10 minute walk to the park entrance)

Distance: 2.4 km for a relaxed loop around the park

Kew Gardens does the winter months particularly well, with popular light trail Christmas at Kew pulling in crowds as darkness falls. But there’s no need to wait for the evening to enjoy this green escape. Wrap up warm and spend a few happy hours wandering through 300 acres of parkland, strolling beneath towering trees in the arboretum, past peaceful lakes and through quiet woodland paths. When the cold starts to nip, duck into the steamy Palm House and pretend you’ve been transported somewhere tropical: instant mood-lift guaranteed.

Starting point:
Victoria Gate entrance

Distance: Approx 4–5 km for a relaxed wander around the main highlights

One of the largest and loveliest green spaces in south-east London, Greenwich Park is made for wandering. You’ll stroll through open grasslands and quiet woodland paths, with plenty of chances to spot birds and squirrels along the way. History lovers can time-hop at the Royal Observatory and stand astride the famous Greenwich Meridian Line. Then comes the best bit: the climb to the top of the hill. It’s a bit of a leg-burner, but the reward is more than worth it. From the summit, soak up sweeping views across the Thames to Canary Wharf and beyond. It is one of those “wow, I really do live in London” moments that never gets old, no matter how many times you do it.

Starting point:
Greenwich Park main gates

Distance: 3–4 km for the circular walk

Victoria Park is one of London’s best-loved open spaces, and with a huge 200 acres to explore, it never feels short on places to wander. Nestled in Tower Hamlets, this much-loved patch of green swaps summer’s buzzing festival crowds for something a little more peaceful once the colder months roll in. Winter is when the park really shows its softer side. This walk takes you past the lake where you'll watch ducks glide across the water, and then through the tree-lined avenues to complete the park's loop. Don't forget to grab a coffee at Pavillion to warm you up as you walk, and if you come at the weekend stop at the food market for a little pick me up. You'll probably cross paths with countless runners, but that's all part of London's charm right? 

Starting point: West Gate entrance

Distance: Approx 3.5km for a loop around the park

Blow away the cobwebs with a refreshing stroll around the marshlands of Walthamstow; a place that feels a million miles from the city, even though you’re still firmly in London. These wetlands proudly hold the title of Europe’s largest urban wetland, and once you arrive it’s easy to see why they’re so special. Wide skies, winding paths and peaceful waterways make this the ultimate spot for slowing down after the festive chaos. This is proper nature-spotting territory, so bring your binoculars and duck into one of the bird hides and enjoy a bit of quiet people-watching… for birds. 

Starting point: Walthamstow Wetlands main entrance 

Distance: 4.5 km for a relaxed loop around the reservoirs

Richmond Park is the kind of place that makes you forget you’re still in London. Sprawling across a whopping 2,500 acres, this vast royal park feels more like a slice of countryside dropped into the city,. There's open grassland, ancient woodland and winding paths that invite you to wander without a plan. Keep your eyes peeled as you walk: hundreds of red and fallow deer roam freely here, and spotting them quietly grazing or crossing your path is always exciting. If you're up for a challenge stroll up to the highest point, King Henry’s Mound and then try and catch your breath. From here, on a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with one of London’s most surprising views: a perfectly framed glimpse of St Paul’s Cathedral more than 12 miles away. 

Starting point: Richmond Gate entrance 

Distance: 6 km for a walk taking in woodland and open parkland

Set in 190 acres of parkland high above north London, Ally Pally is a brilliant place to stretch your legs and lift your spirits. Its lofty position means even a gentle stroll comes with big rewards, serving up gorgeous views across the city skyline that feel especially magical on crisp winter days. If you’re in the mood to turn your walk into a proper mini adventure, follow the Parkland Walk from Ally Pally towards Highgate. This leafy route winds along a beautifully overgrown former railway line, away from traffic and noise, before continuing down to Finsbury Park. It’s one of those walks that feels like you’ve discovered a secret route just off the city.

Starting point: Alexandra Palace main entrance 

Distance: 5.5 km if you follow the Parkland Walk from Ally Pally to Finsbury Park

Set off around Regent’s Park for a winter wander. Even on the chilliest days, this elegant green space delivers, with pretty tree-lined avenues, ornamental lakes and beautifully kept formal gardens. If you're lucky, you might even a glimpse of a giraffe or zebra peeking over from London Zoo as you pass by. Then, take things up a notch and head towards nearby Primrose Hill. The climb is short but satisfying, and the reward at the top is one of north London’s loveliest viewpoints. 

Starting point: Regent’s Park main entrance

Distance: 3k