London, the capital city of England, is known for its bustling streets, iconic landmarks, and rich history. But did you know that there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in this vibrant city? From parks to riverside walks, and rooftop bars to adventure sports, there’s something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of London’s best outdoor activities.
Explore London’s Parks
London is home to numerous parks, each with its own unique character and charm. Hyde Park, one of the largest parks in London, is a must-visit. It covers over 350 acres and features the Serpentine Lake, Speakers’ Corner, and the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain. Other popular parks include Regent’s Park, Greenwich Park, and St. James’s Park.
If you’re looking for a more tranquil experience, head to Kew Gardens. This botanical garden boasts over 50,000 plants, including rare and exotic species. You can explore the gardens on foot or take a guided tour.
Go for a Riverside Walk
London is surrounded by the River Thames, and there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy a riverside walk. The South Bank is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, with its views of iconic landmarks such as the London Eye, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament.
Further east, you’ll find the Thames Path, a 184-mile trail that runs from the source of the river in Gloucestershire to the Thames Barrier in London. You can walk a section of the path or join a guided walking tour.
Take a Bike Ride
If you prefer to see the city on two wheels, then why not rent a bike and explore London’s cycle routes? Santander Cycles, also known as “Boris Bikes,” are available to rent at various locations across the city. You can cycle along the Thames Path or explore the quieter streets of London’s suburbs.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, head to the Lee Valley VeloPark, where you can try your hand at BMX, mountain biking, or track cycling. The velodrome, where Team GB won multiple medals during the 2012 Olympics, is also open to the public for taster sessions and training.
Visit a Rooftop Bar
London has plenty of rooftop bars and restaurants offering stunning views of the city skyline. The Sky Garden, located at the top of the Walkie Talkie building, offers panoramic views of the city, as well as a garden and observation deck. Other popular rooftop bars include the Queen of Hoxton, the Rooftop Film Club, and the Aviary.
Go on a Boat Trip
The River Thames offers another way to explore the city – by boat. There are numerous boat trips available, from short sightseeing tours to longer cruises with dinner and entertainment. You can also take a boat to Greenwich, where you can visit the Royal Observatory and stand on the Prime Meridian.
For a unique experience, try the Thames Rockets speedboat tour. This high-speed boat ride takes you along the river with twists, turns, and speeds of up to 35mph. It’s an adrenaline-fueled way to see the city.
Enjoy Adventure Sports
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, then London has plenty of options. The ArcelorMittal Orbit in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park offers the world’s tallest and longest slide. You can slide down the 178m tunnel at up to 15mph speeds.
The Lee Valley White Water Centre, which hosted the canoe slalom events during the 2012 Olympics, offers white water rafting, kayaking, and hydrospeed. It’s a great way to get your adrenaline pumping and try something new.
Conclusion
London may be known for its urban landscape, but there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in this vibrant city. From exploring its numerous parks, taking a leisurely stroll along the river, biking through its cycle routes, and enjoying the stunning views from its rooftop bars, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re looking for adventure, then London won’t disappoint, with options such as high-speed boat rides and white-water rafting. So next time you’re in the city, don’t forget to step outside and enjoy all of London’s great outdoors.
