Best Walks in London (Our Own Personal List)

July 23rd, 2024

London is a banger when it comes to free things to do. It is also a walker’s paradise, and a true Londoner knows it! Whether you're an avid adventurer or just looking for a chill stroll, we've got the best routes for you. Let’s dive into the coolest spots to stretch those legs in East, North, West, and South London!

East London

Limehouse Basin to All Saints

Kick off your journey at Limehouse Basin, East London's serene secret. This spot is perfect for those who love a mix of tranquility and city vibes. Walk along the canal towards All Saints, and you'll pass charming houseboats and picturesque views that make you forget you're in one of the world's busiest cities.

Little tip:

Start your journey with a stop at the The Grapes pub near Limehouse It's an old-school English pub owned by Ian McKellen, the guy who played Gandalf in LOTR. Believe it or not, Gandalf's staff from the movie is located behind the bar!

St Katherine's Dock to South Bank

St Katherine's Dock is a real gem. Picture this: historic marina, stunning yachts, and cozy cafes. As you walk around the dock, the blend of old-world charm and modern elegance will captivate you. More than that the location is very close to Tower Bridge which you can use to cross and start your charming walk towards Southbank. This is probably one of the most picturesque routes you can take as it has unimaginable views of City of London and Tower Bridge.

Little tip:

You should consider taking a walk in the late evening or near sunset time for the best insta worthy pictures one can take.

Wapping to Limehouse

Wapping is your go-to for a walk full of history and character. Starting at Wapping High Street, you’ll meander through cobbled streets and riverside paths. The Thames Path here is dotted with historic warehouses and old pubs like The Prospect of Whitby, which claims to be the oldest riverside tavern in London. It's a delightful mix of history and modern-day charm.

Little tip:

Go around 11 am to 1 pm when the Thames tide is low as the route has many spots which you can use to go down and walk along the shore of the river.

Cutty Sark to Mudchute Farm

Start at the iconic Cutty Sark in Greenwich and stroll eastwards along the Thames Path. This route takes you through the picturesque streets of Greenwich and eventually lands you at Mudchute Farm ( best route to follow is to go through the underground tunnel that passes under the Thames River !). Perfect for a family day out or just chilling with some cute farm animals.

Little tip:

This walk is a banger because you can literally visit an animal farm! Just do not forget to bring along some carrots and some apples to feed the local goats and pigs.

North London

Little Venice to Camden Town

Little Venice is like stepping into a postcard, it is probably one of the best walking activities for couples too. Begin your walk here, where the Regent's Canal starts, and follow it all the way to Camden Town. This walk is an absolute dream, with colorful narrowboats and charming waterside cafes. And as you approach Camden, the buzz of the market will pull you in. Think vintage shops, street food, and live music—what's not to love?

Little tip:

You can rent a bike and stroll along the canal and local parks. Late evening hours transform the area into a light show miracle, with all the boats and cafes turning up their evening mood lighting.

Mile End to Victoria Park

Mile End is your starting point for a serene canal-side walk to Victoria Park. This route is perfect for those who love green spaces. Victoria Park, one of London’s most beloved parks, offers beautiful lakes, gardens, and plenty of spots for a picnic. The walk itself is calming, and the park is a fantastic reward at the end.

Little tip:

There are a few cute little cafes along the walk which are usually filled with tourists or locals. They have a charming vibe and are perfect for a coffee break.

King's Cross to Haggerston

Start your canal adventure at King's Cross and head towards Haggerston along the Regent's Canal. This North London route is all about discovering the city's hip side. As you stroll along, you'll see colorful houseboats and vibrant street art that narrates the area's creative spirit. Haggerston is the perfect spot to end your walk with its trendy cafes and bars. Grab a craft beer or a latte and soak in the vibe.

Little tip:

Keep an eye out for the unique street art along the way—it's like walking through an outdoor gallery.

West London

Little Venice

Okay, we can't get enough of Little Venice. It's that good! Aside from being a starting point to Camden, it's also an amazing area to explore on its own. Walk around the canal, enjoy the picturesque scenery, and maybe even take a boat ride. The area is dotted with cute cafes and gardens, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed day out.

Little tip:

Check out the Waterside Café for a delightful canal-side brunch. It's a floating café with some seriously good vibes.

South London

South Bank to Battersea Park

Start your walk at the iconic South Bank, home to landmarks like the London Eye and the Tate Modern. From here, head west along the Thames Path towards Battersea Park. This scenic route offers stunning river views and passes by some of London’s most famous sights.

Little tip:

The South Bank is bustling with street performers and food stalls, making it a lively start to your walk. Battersea Park, on the other hand, is perfect for a peaceful end, with beautiful gardens and lakes.

Crystal Palace to Dulwich

Begin at the historic Crystal Palace Park, famous for its dinosaur sculptures and expansive green spaces. Walk south towards Dulwich, a charming neighborhood with a village feel.

Little tip:

Crystal Palace Park is great for kids, thanks to its unique dinosaur park. Once you reach Dulwich, don’t miss the Dulwich Picture Gallery, one of London’s hidden art gems.

Conclusion

London’s diverse neighborhoods and scenic canals offer some of the best walking routes in the city. From the historic docks of East London to the tranquil canals of North London, the picturesque spots in West London, and the iconic riverside walks of South London, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. So grab your comfy shoes, maybe a camera, and get ready to explore the coolest walking routes London has to offer. Happy walking!

P.S if you are looking for other fun things to do in London do not hesitate to check our dedicated pages and blog posts ;)