London Wetland Centre
The London Wetland Centre is a 105-acre city wildlife area created by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust.
When you’re in Barnes it’s hard to believe that it’s just a hop, skip and jump away from the bustle of central London. Its village-y vibe is thanks, in part, to its isolation from the rest of south London by the huge sweep of the Thames.
While there are numerous fantastic independent shops, great pubs, like Ye White Hart, and restaurants, such as the chef’s favourite Riva, all worth visiting, this area is perfect if you love the great outdoors. Not only are there riverside walks to be taken, but there’s greenery aplenty, with Barnes Common and the London Wetland Centre, an expansive bird reserve converted from defunct reservoirs that sits to the east of Castelnau, the long spine that leads to Hammersmith Bridge, to explore. Then, at heart of the area, there’s also a large duck pond and adjoining green, which plays host to a popular annual midsummer fair. It’s almost enough to make you ditch the city completely. Almost...
Recommended: London by area
