When you think about natural attractions in London, you probably picture famous spots like Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. But the capital has so much more to offer when it comes to enjoying the great outdoors, and our handy lists will keep you #InnTheKnow. Escape the hustle and bustle of the most popular parks in London by exploring some best London attractions that are further off the beaten track. From wild swimming near London in the River Wey to fun days out with the kids at London city farms, dive into all the best free things to do in London near our great-value London hotels.
Best free natural attractions in London off the beaten track
Oak Hill Woods
Oak Hill Woods Nature Reserve in East Barnet
Just a five-minute drive away from Cockfosters tube station, you’ll find Oak Hill Woods Nature Reserve. Part of the London Wildlife Trust, this ancient area of woodland in East Barnet is ideal if you’re looking for natures reserves in London to discover.
Locals and dog walkers alike love exploring the 10 hectares worth of woodland in the heart of London – some parts of the reserve are steep, sloped and can get muddy in winter, though, so don’t forget your wellies!
Thinking of booking Premier Inn hotels in London? The nearest one to this attraction is our Premier Inn London Southgate hotel.
Vauxhall City Farm
Vauxhall City Farm in Lambeth
With alpacas, a community garden and much more waiting at the Vauxhall City Farm, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular city farms in London. Whether you’re feeding the animals, taking the kids to a Young Farmers day, or de-stressing in the farm’s Cuddle Corner, this family friendly attraction in London is a must-visit. Entry to the farm is donation based, so chip in whatever you can, and then enjoy your day. Plus, this urban farm is right next door to Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, so you can make the most of two outdoor attractions in London in one afternoon!
Thinking of booking Premier Inn hotels in London? The nearest one to this attraction is our Premier Inn London Victoria hotel.
Mudchute Park
Mudchute Park and Farm on the Isle of Dogs
If you’re looking for free things to do in London near Canary Wharf, why not head over to Mudchute Park and Farm? It’s right next to Mudchute DLR station, so getting to this free attraction in London couldn’t be easier, and once you’re there, there’s all kinds of fun activities to enjoy next to Millwall Park.
Home to over 100 animals, families and couples alike can meet everything from cows and sheep to donkeys and llamas at one of the top city farms in London, as well as taking part in exciting events and exploring the stables, too.
Thinking of booking Premier Inn hotels in London? The nearest one to this attraction is our Premier Inn London Greenwich hotel.
Walthamstow Wetlands
Walthamstow Wetlands Nature Reserve in Walthamstow
Keen to get the little ones more interested in nature? Thanks to exciting wildlife that grows here and the wildfowl to rare birds that live here, the Walthamstow Wetlands Nature Reserve is ideal when you’re looking for free days out in London with the kids. Close to Tottenham Hale station and the Paddock Community Nature Park, this Thames Water reservoir site is a fascinating natural attraction in London to explore all year round, and also hosts a range of fun events to support the local community.
Thinking of booking Premier Inn hotels in London? The nearest one to this attraction is our Premier Inn London Tottenham Hale hotel.
Spitalfields City Farm
Spitalfields City Farm in Tower Hamlets
When it comes to London city farms, you won’t find many more urban than the Spitalfields City Farm near stylish Brick Lane. As well as hosting exciting local events and educational days out, this free family attraction in London next to Allen Gardens has four small community gardens to explore, including a wildlife garden and a vegetable garden all cared for by local volunteers. Thanks to the cute farm animals who inhabit this Spitalfields attraction, the farmyard is always a hit with visitors enjoying free days out in London.
Thinking of booking Premier Inn hotels in London? The nearest one to this attraction is our Premier Inn London City (Aldgate) hotel.
Woodberry Wetlands
Woodberry Wetlands in Hackney
If you’re looking for wetlands in London with scenic views and wildlife, Woodberry Wetlands in Hackney is hard to beat. Just a short walk away from Manor House tube station, this little oasis in the capital is among some of the most popular natural attractions in London. Soak up the great outdoors with a walk around the wetlands, where you can spot all kinds of wildlife amongst the East and West reservoirs. Whether it’s days out with the kids in London or just a chance to escape the city life that you’re after, this free attraction in London is a must visit.
Thinking of booking Premier Inn hotels in London? The nearest one to this attraction is our Premier Inn London Archway hotel.
Centre for Wildlife Gardening
Centre for Wildlife Gardening in Peckham
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of central London with a trip to the Centre for Wildlife Gardening in Peckham. This hidden gem is unlike any of the other nature reserves in London on our list thanks to its spot on a residential street near East Dulwich station. The urban location hasn’t stopped wildlife flourishing there, though, and visitors will have plenty to explore when they’re looking for free days out in London, like a wildlife garden, ponds and insect hotels. More than anything else though, this little centre is just a great place to unwind.
Thinking of booking Premier Inn hotels in London? The nearest one to this attraction is our Premier Inn London Brixton hotel.
Gunnersbury Triangle
Gunnersbury Triangle in Chiswick
If you’re looking for free things to do with the kids in West London, why not hop on a tube and visit the Gunnersbury Triangle? Locals managed to save this nature reserve in London from property development 20 years ago, and ever since this oasis near Chiswick Park tube station has flourished.
Let the kids try wildlife-spotting along the wooden walkways or just relax and enjoy some time out from the busiest London attractions in this tranquil woodland triangle.
Thinking of booking Premier Inn hotels in London? The nearest one to this attraction is our Premier Inn London Chiswick hotel.
And just outside of London . . .
If you’re looking for free things to do near London, how about visiting these top natural attractions in Surrey just outside of the capital?
Frensham Great Pond
Frensham Great Pond in Surrey
You don’t have to pay leisure centre prices next time you fancy swimming in London. Located just an hour and a half away from the capital – or even closer still if you’re staying in one of our hotels in Surrey – Frensham Great Pond is one of the top places to go wild swimming near London, and it’s easy to see.
With its own little beach and surrounding woodland, this picturesque lake is perfect for free days out with the kids in London.
Thinking of booking Premier Inn hotels in London? The nearest one to this attraction is our Premier Inn Farnham hotel.
River Wey
River Wey in Surrey
Going for a dip is a great way to beat the heat during summer breaks in London. And, if you’re staying in one of our Surrey hotels, you’ll find some great spots nearby that won’t cost you a penny. Since wild swimming in London took off, the River Wey in Surrey has been one of the most popular places for a paddle.
Some favourite spots for local swimmers are along the Chilworth to Guildford walk, so pack your trunks and swimsuits next time you’re looking for free things to do near London.
Thinking of booking Premier Inn hotels in London? The nearest one to this attraction is our Premier Inn Woking West (A324) hotel.
So whether you’re after fun first date ideas in London or just an excuse to escape and soak up the great outdoors, these free natural attractions around the capital are ideal for getting the most out of days out in London. Plus, if you’re looking for other free things to do in London, check out our list of top London cycling trails and the best things to do with the kids in London for a little inspiration.