The Best Places to See Spring Flowers in London’s Parks and Gardens
March 8th, 2025
Springtime in London is a sight to behold. As winter fades, the city’s parks and gardens burst into colour, filling the air with floral scents and creating perfect spots for a leisurely walk. Whether you're after dazzling cherry blossoms, carpets of bluebells, or the delicate charm of magnolias, there’s a green space in London ready to impress. And the best part? Each one comes with its own unique attractions nearby, making a visit more than just about flowers.
1. Kew Gardens
Best time to visit: March - May
Flower highlights: Crocuses, cherry blossoms, magnolias, tulips, bluebells
Kew Gardens is the crown jewel of London’s botanical world. Spring transforms it into a floral wonderland, with a ‘crocus carpet’ blanketing the grounds in early March. As the season progresses, cherry blossoms line the pathways, and by May, the Rhododendron Dell is an explosion of pinks and purples.
Why visit? Beyond the blooms, there’s plenty to explore. Walk the Treetop Walkway for a unique view of the gardens, or visit the stunning Temperate House, home to rare and exotic plants. If you fancy making a day of it, Richmond Park is just a stone’s throw away, where you might spot deer—and if you’re lucky, dolphins in the Thames near Richmond riverside. You can even rent a boat and paddle along the river for a different perspective.
2. Cannizaro Park (Wimbledon)
Best time to visit: March - April
Flower highlights: Crocuses, camellias, azaleas, magnolias
A bit of a hidden gem, Cannizaro Park is the kind of place where time slows down. Spring brings bursts of colour with its vibrant azaleas and rhododendrons, while delicate camellias and magnolias create an almost dreamlike setting. The Japanese-style garden adds an extra layer of charm.
Why visit? Fancy a relaxed afternoon? Stop by Cannizaro House for afternoon tea, then take a scenic stroll through Wimbledon Common. If you’re in the mood for a little shopping or a bite to eat, the nearby Wimbledon Village has plenty of charming cafés and boutiques to explore.
3. Richmond Park & Isabella Plantation
Best time to visit: April - June
Flower highlights: Azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias, bluebells
Richmond Park is vast, but tucked within it is Isabella Plantation, one of the best free things to do in London that bursts into colour come spring. The azaleas here are something else—huge clouds of pink, red, and purple reflected in the still waters of the plantation’s ponds. Meanwhile, the park’s bluebell woods are pure magic.
Why visit? Richmond itself is a fantastic place to explore. Stroll along the riverside, pop into one of the many cosy pubs, or take a boat out onto the Thames. And yes, it’s true—there have been dolphin sightings in the river, so keep your eyes peeled! If you’re more of a wildlife fan, the famous deer of Richmond Park are always a highlight.
4. Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens
Best time to visit: March - May
Flower highlights: Daffodils, tulips, cherry blossoms, wisteria
Hyde Park in spring is a total mood-lifter. The lawns glow golden with daffodils, and tulips add vibrant splashes of red and yellow. Over in Kensington Gardens, the cherry blossoms put on their own spectacular show, while wisteria vines drape elegantly over the historic buildings.
Why visit? The Serpentine Lake is perfect for a lazy afternoon—rent a pedal boat or just relax by the water’s edge. If you’re up for a little exploring, head towards Notting Hill and wander through the famous Portobello Market.
Things to do in Hyde Park
5. Regent’s Park & Queen Mary’s Gardens
Best time to visit: April - June
Flower highlights: Tulips, cherry blossoms, roses
Regent’s Park is in full bloom come spring, with Queen Mary’s Gardens offering one of London’s most stunning rose displays. Before the roses peak, tulips take centre stage, adding bright bursts of colour, while cherry blossoms make the pathways look like something straight out of a painting.
Why visit? Just a short walk away is Camden Market, a paradise for foodies and vintage lovers. If you’d rather stay in nature, the park’s boating lake is a great way to enjoy the scenery from a different angle.
6. Greenwich Park
Best time to visit: March - May
Flower highlights: Cherry blossoms, daffodils, bluebells
Greenwich Park doesn’t just have flowers—it has one of the best panoramic views in London. Spring starts with fields of golden daffodils, followed by cherry blossoms that make the whole park feel like a fairy tale. If you wander deeper into the park, you’ll find quieter spots where bluebells bloom in peaceful clusters.
Why visit? After your floral fix, head up to the Royal Observatory to stand on the Prime Meridian Line (yep, you can be in two hemispheres at once). Then, explore the Cutty Sark or grab something tasty at Greenwich Market. Basically there is lots of stuff to do in Greenwich
Things to do in Greenwich
7. Fulham Palace Botanic Gardens
Best time to visit: March - May
Flower highlights: Magnolias, cherry blossoms, roses
Tucked along the Thames, Fulham Palace’s botanic gardens feel like a secret escape. Spring sees the magnolias bloom in full force, while delicate cherry blossoms and fragrant roses make for a stunning sight. The historic walled gardens add an extra touch of charm.
Why visit? Fulham Palace itself is a fascinating place to wander through, and if you fancy a riverside stroll, the Thames Path leads towards Putney and Hammersmith, where riverside pubs and scenic spots await.
8. Holland Park & Kyoto Garden
Best time to visit: April - May
Flower highlights: Wisteria, cherry blossoms
Holland Park is a delight in spring, but its biggest treasure is the Kyoto Garden. This peaceful Japanese-inspired garden is at its best when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, and by late spring, wisteria drapes elegantly over stone archways. It’s like stepping into another world.
Why visit? Peacocks roam freely here, adding to the fairytale vibe. When you’re done, head over to High Street Kensington for shopping or a relaxed coffee stop.
9. Canary Wharf Crossrail Place Roof Garden
Best time to visit: March - May
Flower highlights: Orchids, ferns, tropical plants
This isn’t your typical London park. Crossrail Place Roof Garden is an urban jungle hidden in the heart of Canary Wharf. The glass-covered oasis is filled with exotic plants from around the world, including tropical ferns and delicate orchids that bloom in spring.
Why visit? After exploring the futuristic garden, check out Canary Wharf’s waterfront bars and restaurants. If you're up for something cultural, the nearby Museum of London Docklands offers a deep dive into the history of the Thames and London’s trade routes. Check out our best things to do in Canary Wharf guide for more ideas.
Things to do in Canary Wharf
10. Worthy Mentions
Best time to visit: March - June
Flower highlights: various
Hampton Court Palace, St. James Park, Notting Hill and Vauxhall Park are all worthy mentions on our list too. Especially St James Park where nature is at your palm ( literally squirrels there are so friendly they ll jump over your hands , shoulders and spoiler alert … head ! ) and Notting Hill were the blooming streets are a site that is just not to be missed.
Springtime in London is Waiting for You!
London’s parks are a dream in spring, bursting with colour and life. Whether you're after peaceful strolls, vibrant photo opportunities, or a full day of adventure, there's a perfect spot waiting for you. So grab your camera, breathe in that fresh floral air, and make the most of the season!
