North London is a verdant oasis, boasting an exceptional array of parks, gardens, and open spaces that offer a much-needed escape from the bustling city life.
From vast expanses of ancient woodlands to meticulously manicured formal gardens, this region caters to every taste and preference.
Whether you’re seeking a serene retreat for a leisurely stroll, an adventure-filled playground for your children, or a picturesque backdrop for a romantic picnic, here are some of the best parks in North London – sure to delight and inspire.
Hampstead Heath
Spanning a staggering 790 acres, Hampstead Heath is an ancient parkland that epitomises the natural beauty of North London.
This iconic green space features rolling hills, dense woodlands, and picturesque ponds, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in nature’s embrace. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike, Hampstead Heath offers a variety of landscapes to explore.
Highlights: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a dip in the refreshing swimming ponds or savour a traditional English roast at one of the charming local pubs surrounding the park.
Nearest Station: Hampstead Heath Overground Station.
Best Local Cafe: The Nook, opposite Hampstead Heath Overground Station. Grab a coffee and a bite to eat to take with you to the park.
Regent's Park
Regent’s Park, one of London’s esteemed Royal Parks, is a 410-acre oasis that seamlessly blends natural splendour with meticulously designed formal gardens.
From the breathtaking Queen Mary’s Garden, adorned with vibrant roses, to the serene boating lake and tree-lined pathways, this park offers a multitude of experiences.
Highlights: Families will delight in the abundance of children’s playgrounds, while nature enthusiasts can explore the world-famous London Zoo or catch an open-air theatrical performance.
Nearest Station: Regent’s Park Tube Station (Bakerloo Line).
Best Local Cafe: The Regent’s Bar & Kitchen offers outdoor seating and a variety of dishes, making it an ideal spot for a meal or snack within the park.
Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill, a picturesque park situated in the heart of North London, is renowned for its panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline. Named after the 210-foot hill at its centre, this tranquil green space offers a breathtaking vantage point to witness the stunning sunsets over the city.
During the spring months, the park bursts into bloom with a mesmerising display of primroses, creating a visual feast for the senses. Surrounded by charming cafés, pubs, and restaurants, Primrose Hill is the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll or a romantic picnic.
Highlights: Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top of the hill and take in the panoramic views.
Nearest Station: Chalk Farm Tube Station (Northern Line).
Best Local Cafe: Primrose Bakery on Gloucester Avenue is a short walk from the hill and is famous for its cupcakes and coffee.
Alexandra Palace Park
Affectionately known as “Ally Pally,” Alexandra Palace Park is a sprawling 196-acre green space that offers a diverse array of recreational activities. Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the park’s rich biodiversity, with over 600 species of animals, plants, birds, and butterflies calling it home.
From the adventure playground and skateboard park to the open-air performance theatre and boating lake, this park caters to visitors of all ages and interests. The park’s historic Alexandra Palace, a stunning building dating back to the 19th century, provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor events and exhibitions.
Highlights: Don’t miss the opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of the city from the terrace of Alexandra Palace.
Nearest Station: Alexandra Palace Rail Station.
Best Local Cafe: The Phoenix Bar and Kitchen in Alexandra Palace provides stunning views and a comfortable place to enjoy a meal or drink.
Finsbury Park
Finsbury Park, a historic Victorian gem dating back to 1869, spans 110 acres and offers a green sanctuary for Londoners seeking respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. This beloved park is a hub of activity, hosting numerous events and musical festivals throughout the year.
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the boating lake, explore the formal gardens and arboretum, or let their children burn off energy at the spacious playground. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s array of facilities, including football pitches, an athletics stadium, and a cycling club.
Highlights: Don’t miss the opportunity to attend one of the park’s lively events.
Nearest Station: Finsbury Park Tube and Rail Station (Victoria, Piccadilly Lines, and National Rail).
Best Local Cafe: The Front Room Café offers a cosy atmosphere and a great selection of food and drinks, just a short walk from the park.
Clissold Park
Nestled in the heart of Stoke Newington, Clissold Park is a traditional park that captures the essence of North London’s natural charm. This beloved green space is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, goats, butterflies, and an aviary housing various bird species.
Families can enjoy a picnic while surrounded by nature or indulge in freshly roasted barista coffee and locally baked treats from one of the many cafes nearby. The park also offers a range of recreational facilities, including sports fields, a bowling green, and a skate park.
Highlights: Don’t miss the chance to encounter the park’s resident animals or explore the serene formal gardens and fountains.
Nearest Station: Stoke Newington Rail Station.
Best Local Cafe: 13th Floor Coffee serves fantastic coffee – a perfect place to unwind after a stroll.
Highgate Wood
Highgate Wood is a stunning ancient woodland that has been preserved for centuries. This tranquil oasis offers a peaceful escape from the city, with winding trails leading through towering trees and a variety of habitats for local flora and fauna.
Visitors can lose themselves in the serene surroundings, taking in the sights and sounds of nature as they explore the park’s diverse ecosystems. The woods attract a variety of wildlife, including woodpeckers, moths, and bats, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Highlights: Immerse yourself in the rich history of this ancient woodland.
Nearest Station: Highgate Tube Station (Northern Line).
Best Local Cafe: Queen’s Wood Cafe – Offers organic coffee and homemade cakes, nestled near the wood’s entrance.
Gladstone Park
Named after the late Prime Minister William Gladstone, Gladstone Park in Dollis Hill offers a serene escape within its 86-acre expanse. While not as vast as some of North London’s larger parks, Gladstone Park boasts a wealth of natural beauty, including a walled garden, a duck pond, and stunning views of iconic London landmarks like the London Eye and Wembley Stadium.
Visitors can engage in outdoor activities such as tennis or simply relax amidst the tranquil surroundings. The park also features a children’s play area, an outdoor gym, and designated dog-walking areas, making it a popular destination for families and pet owners alike.
Highlights: Climb to the top of the hill on a clear day to enjoy panoramic vistas of London’s skyline or explore the park’s woodlands and formal gardens.
Nearest Station: Dollis Hill Tube Station (Jubilee Line).
Best Local Cafe: Stables Café located within the park, serves tasty food in quirky converted stables.
Waterlow Park
Priory Park in Haringey is a charming oasis with a rich history dating back to 1891. This park features a children’s play area and a cafe, plus basketball, petanque, and tennis courts, making it a popular destination for families and sports lovers.
Visitors can stroll along the park’s winding paths, enjoying the park’s heritage trail, where they can learn about the history of the park or enjoy a picnic on the lush green lawns.
Highlights: Explore the park’s sports amenities, or take part in one of the park’s Wednesday morning wellbeing walks.
Nearest Station: Hornsey Station.
Best Local Cafe: The Waterlow Park Café is a convenient spot within the park where you can enjoy a coffee or light lunch amidst the greenery.
Priory Park
Priory Park in Haringey is a charming oasis with a rich history dating back to 1891. This park features a children’s play area, and a cafe, plus basketball, petanque, and tennis courts, making it a popular destination for families and sports lovers.
Visitors can stroll along the park’s winding paths, enjoying the park’s heritage trail, where they can learn about the history of the park or enjoy a picnic on the lush green lawns.
Highlights: Explore the park’s sports amenities, or take part in one of the park’s Wednesday morning wellbeing walks.
Nearest Station: Hornsey Station.
Best Local Cafe: The Priory Café, situated within the park, serves up a variety of hot and cold options for park-goers.
Arnos Park
Situated in the heart of Enfield, Arnos Park is a green space with various landscapes, including woodlands, a brook, and a viaduct. This park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to spot a diverse range of species in their natural habitats, such as kingfishers and herons.
Visitors can embark on leisurely walks along the park’s trails, taking in the sights and sounds of the great outdoors, or participate in a range of outdoor activities, such as bird watching, jogging, or bowling. The park also features a children’s play area, making it an ideal destination for family outings.
Highlights: Explore the park’s woodlands and observe the array of birds and other wildlife that call this area home.
Nearest Station: Arnos Grove Tube Station (Piccadilly Line).
Best Local Cafe: The Sprout Mobile Coffee Shop – A mobile café offering excellent coffee and snacks, perfect for a quick stop while exploring the park.
Golders Hill Park
Golders Hill Park is a delightful green space in Golders Green that boasts a unique blend of natural beauty and family-friendly attractions. In addition to its formal gardens and woodland areas, the park features a free mini zoo, a deer enclosure, and ponds.
Visitors can explore the park’s winding paths or observe the resident wildlife, including graceful deer and colourful butterflies. The park also features a café, making it ideal for a leisurely afternoon with family and friends.
Highlights: See lemurs, wallabies and kookaburras at the mini zoo!
Nearest Station: Golders Green Tube Station (Northern Line).
Best Local Cafe: Golders Hill Park Café provides a scenic spot to relax with a drink or snack after exploring the park.
Pymmes Park
Located in Edmonton, Pymmes Park is a true gem that offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities. From its well-maintained sports facilities and large children’s playground to its Victorian walled garden and lake, this park caters to visitors of all ages and interests.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the park’s wetland areas, while sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the tennis and basketball courts, football pitches, and running track. The park also features a visitor centre and picnic areas, making it ideal for a family outing or a leisurely afternoon with friends.
Highlights: Visit the lake during Spring to see baby ducklings.
Nearest Station: Silver Street Rail Station.
Best Local Cafe: Cobblers Cafe – A cosy spot nearby known for its warm atmosphere and tasty selections.
Jubilee Park
Jubilee Park in Edmonton, Enfield, is a large 52-acre park that offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its wooded areas and sporting facilities, including a bowling green, pitch-and-putt crazy golf, athletics track, football pitches, and basketball and tennis courts, there is a lot to keep you entertained.
The main entrance to the park on Galliard Road is special for its Art Deco gates, which give a historic nod to the park’s opening in 1939.
Highlights: Enjoy a round of pitch and putt golf with your friends or family.
Nearest Station: Enfield Town Rail Station.
Best Local Cafe: Traditional Turkish Coffee House – Known for authentic Turkish coffee and a welcoming atmosphere.
Chestnuts Park
Nestled in the heart of Haringey, Chestnuts Park is a beloved local gem. This charming park features lush green spaces, a children’s playground, basketball and tennis courts and an outdoor gym.
Visitors can enjoy a stroll around the community-maintained willow garden and orchard or relax and enjoy a cup of tea at the park’s cafe.
Highlights: Get involved in community-run projects to maintain the willow garden and orchard.
Nearest Station: Harringay Green Lanes Rail Station.
Best Local Cafe: Chestnuts Park Café offers a friendly environment and a selection of refreshments right in the park.
Downhills Park
Downhills Park in Tottenham is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This sprawling green space features a variety of sports facilities, including tennis and basketball courts and football, rugby, and netball pitches, making it an ideal spot for active recreation. On the east side of the park lies formal gardens designed in the early 19th century – a great spot for relaxation.
The park also features a children’s playground and picnic areas, making it a popular destination for families and friends alike.
Highlights: Take advantage of the park’s excellent sports facilities.
Nearest Station: Turnpike Lane Tube Station (Piccadilly Line).
Best Local Cafe: Downhills Park Café inside the park is great for a quick coffee or a bite to eat while enjoying the outdoors.
Enjoy The Beauty Of North London’s Finest Outdoor Spaces!
North London parks offer a diverse range of natural beauty and recreational activities, making them perfect destinations for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a place for family fun, or a scenic spot for outdoor exercise, grab your walking shoes, pack a picnic, or just bring a book and enjoy the serene beauty of North London’s finest outdoor spaces.
