Seeing the capital city by foot is a great way to take in all its wonderful sights and sounds. And, because there’s so much ground to cover (quite literally), we’ve got a list of London walks that will bring you something that little bit different. From royal parks to 20th century Pergolas, you’ll be ogling at stuff every step of the way. So, grab your walking boots NOW. We’re #InnTheKnow of London walks you won’t want to miss! Looking to escape the hussle and bussle even further? Take a look at our handy guide for the best free natural attractions in London off the beaten track.
Best London walks, walking trails and London walks
The Peace Pagoda
SOUTH: Battersea Park
Time: 2 hours
Length: 2.2 miles
If you’re looking to be dazzled on a walk, this trail really is for you. We recommend starting with the circular route around the outside of the park. You’ll stroll past tree-lined walkways before reaching the London Peace Pagoda – a stunning Buddhist temple with bronze statues that overlooks the Thames. Next, head in towards the boating lake, keeping an eye out for the Barbara Hepworth sculpture and Pump House Gallery.
A subtropical garden then waits for you on west side, then north, you’ll spot the Victorian bandstand. If that’s not enough, keep walking north-westerly and you’ll reach Battersea Bridge – the view will stop you in your tracks.
#InnTheKnow top tip: There’s a hidden gem of a place in the park called the Old English Garden – honeysuckle, roses and jasmine cover it!
If you need somewhere to kick things off (and super central), our nearest hotel is Premier Inn London Victoria.
The Serpentine
WEST: Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk
Time: 3 hours
Length: 7 miles
If it’s parks you want to cover off on a walk, well we’ve got that sorted (and they’re royal ones too). Charted by a series of 90 plaques set into the ground to help you out along the way, starting off near Queensway, you’ll head into Kensington Park, followed by Hyde Park, Green Park, and St James’s Park.
And, if parks weren’t enough for your walk, you’ll be taken aback by not only three palaces – Kensington, Buckingham and St James’s Palace but two mansions too – Clarence House and Spencer House. We’d recommend stopping off at The Serpentine too where you can swap walking for pedalling on row boats or pedalos.
#InnTheKnow top tip: If the kids are with you, let them blow off some steam at the Diana Memorial Playground before enjoying a bite to eat at The Broad Walk Café.
Before or after you get your walking shoes on, rest up in our nearest hotel is Premier Inn London Kensington.
The Edwardian Pergola
NORTH: Hampstead Heath Sandy Heath & the Pergola Trail
Time: 1.5 hours
Length: 1.7 miles
Hampstead Heath and its 800 acres of beauty is something of a must see if you’re doing a walk around London. Your trail will start at Golders Hill Café before you start veering inwards and into the breathtaking Edwardian Pergola and Hill Garden. Built back in 1906 and home to Lord Leverhulme’s many a garden party, now a Grade II listed building, it really is one of North London’s prettiest hidden gems.
Wander round and then head to the wilderness feels of Pitt’s Garden filled with the Heath’s signature Heather plant before finishing up in Sandy Heath and it’s lunar-like landscape.
#InnTheKnow top tip: Stop off for refreshing drink or lunch at the iconic North London pub The Spaniards Inn.
Looking for a nearby hotel? Our Premier Inn London Hampstead is very close to where you’ll start and finish off this walking trail.
The ArcelorMittal Orbit
EAST: Hackney Wick to Beckton District Park
Time: 3 hours
Length: 5.2 miles
Bringing you lots of green scenery and landmarks that’ll make you go WOW, is this classic East London walking route. You’ll kick things off at Hackney Wick station and make your way past the Olympic Park, down the River Lea and Old Ford Lock and get in a bit of spin seeing the ArcelorMittal Orbit in all its glory.
Walking on, you’ll reach Abbey Mills Pumping Station – an impressive and much-admired masterpiece of Victorian public works engineering. If you get the chance to have a wander around it – do it! Carry on walking through West Ham, Plaistow and Newham and take your pick from pubs, cafes and eateries along the way before finishing up Beckton District Park. Woodland awaits!
#InnTheKnow top tip: Remember the TV show Big Breakfast? On this walking route, you’ll pass the Lock Keeper’s Cottage where it was filmed! Some of sets used in the show are still in the garden…
Super close to all the action round Stratford and the Hackney Wick area is our Premier Inn London Stratford, so that’s your hotel sorted!
Ready to get your walking boots on now? Trust us when we say you’ll see more of hidden London than ever before. Don’t forget, we’re #InnTheKnow of walking breaks all over the UK- check out all our pick of hikes and walks all across the UK. However, if it’s a cycling adventure you’re keen on, see our London cycling trails too. For all things to do in London too, we’ve got that covered too – your city break planning just got a whole lot more exciting! Or, why not take part in the hugely popular London Marathon?