London Scenic Walks: 6 Routes You’ll Want to Explore
London reveals itself best when you slow down. Away from the Tube and busy roads, the city's green spaces, riverside paths and hidden streets invite you to see a different side of the capital. Whether you are planning a solo adventure, catching up with friends or simply looking for a peaceful afternoon outdoors, these walks in London combine famous landmarks with unexpected corners full of character.
From leafy royal parks to canals lined with cafés, these six routes offer something for every kind of explorer.
1. The Queen’s Walk (South Bank to Tower Bridge)
Distance: Approximately 3 miles
If it is your first time in London, this riverside route is hard to miss. The iconic Queen's Walk follows the southern bank of the Thames, taking you from Westminster Bridge past the London Eye, Southbank Centre, Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe.
Before reaching the magnificent Tower Bridge, make a short detour to Borough Market for artisan treats, fresh coffee or a leisurely lunch, then continue back to the river to finish beside one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Along the way you'll find street performers, riverside cafés and some of the capital's most recognisable sights, making it one of the most rewarding walks for first-time visitors.
2. Regent's Canal Walk
Distance: Approximately 2.5 miles
Swap city traffic for peaceful waterside paths as you follow Regent's Canal from Little Venice to Camden Market. Colourful narrowboats drift past waterside cafés, while hidden gardens and quiet towpaths make this one of the best walks in London for a slower pace.
Once you reach Camden, reward yourself with global street food, independent shops and live music before heading back into the city.
3. Richmond Park Circular
Distance: Approximately 7 miles
For a complete escape from central London, Richmond Park offers wide open spaces, ancient woodland and free-roaming deer. Its rolling landscape feels surprisingly rural despite being within the capital. Covering 2,500 acres, it is the largest of the royal parks in London that serves as a haven for endangered species such as stag beetles, bats and moths.
King Henry's Mound provides one of London's most famous protected views, stretching all the way to St Paul's Cathedral. The circular route follows sections of the Tamsin Trail, a well-maintained path that loops around the edge of the park, taking you through some of its most scenic landscapes while avoiding busy roads. If you're visiting in spring, a short detour to the Isabella Plantation rewards you with colourful azaleas, rhododendrons and tranquil woodland paths. It is one of the best walks around London if you are looking for fresh air and plenty of space to unwind.
4. Hampstead Heath
Distance: Approximately 4.5 miles
Wander through the ancient woodland and open meadows of Hampstead Heath before climbing to Parliament Hill, where one of London's most celebrated skyline views awaits. If you have more time, extend your walk along the Heath's network of circular trails, passing the tranquil bathing ponds and Kenwood House, an elegant 18th-century mansion surrounded by landscaped gardens. Finish by exploring the charming streets of Hampstead Village, where independent bookshops, cosy cafés and traditional pubs provide the perfect place to unwind.
5. St James's Park to Hyde Park
Distance: Approximately 2.5 miles
This elegant route links some of London's most beautiful royal parks. Begin beside Buckingham Palace before strolling through St James's Park, where resident pelicans, ornamental lakes and colourful flowerbeds create a peaceful setting in the heart of the city. Continue through Green Park and into Hyde Park, home to famous landmarks including the Serpentine Lake, Princess Diana Memorial Fountain and Speakers' Corner.
If you're visiting during the warmer months, you can even hire a rowing boat on the Serpentine or relax at one of the park's waterside cafés. It is one of the best walks in London for combining royal heritage, green spaces and some of the capital's most recognisable parkland.
6. Finsbury Park to Alexandra Palace
Distance: Approximately 3 miles
North London offers one of the city's most underrated walking routes. Begin in Finsbury Park before making your way through Parkland Walk, a former railway line transformed into a peaceful nature reserve filled with woodland and wildlife.
The trail finishes at Alexandra Palace, where panoramic views stretch across London's skyline. If you are spending time nearby, you can also discover more things to do in Finsbury Park before continuing your adventure.
Where to Stay in London
Maldron Hotel Finsbury Park is an ideal base for exploring North London's green spaces, with Parkland Walk, Alexandra Palace and excellent transport links into central London all within easy reach.
Alternatively, Maldron Hotel Shoreditch offers a convenient base for exploring central London, with excellent public transport connections putting many of the city's most popular walking routes and iconic attractions within easy reach. Whether you choose Finsbury Park or Shoreditch, both Maldron hotels provide comfortable stays for your London adventure.
More Ways to Explore London
If you are planning a longer stay, you might also enjoy:
These guides pair perfectly with the best walks in London, helping you build a memorable city itinerary.
Staying in London?
FAQs: Best Walks in London
The South Bank, Regent's Canal and Richmond Park are among the best walks in London for every type of traveller.
Parkland Walk and Hampstead Heath offer quieter alternatives away from the busiest tourist areas.
The South Bank riverside route showcases many of London's most famous landmarks in one walk.
Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures, colourful parks and ideal conditions for exploring the best walks in London.
