The best family days out in London and beyond rated by kids and teens
Published: 7th May 2015
It’s well-known that London is home to a host of iconic outdoor spaces, but look beyond the leafy surroundings and you’ll find that each park has its own unique atmosphere and even more distinctive inhabitants. Next time you’re planning a leisurely picnic or fighting for deckchair space in one of the Capital’s gardens, why not have a go at playing ‘Park Life Bingo’ and see how many of these characteristics you can check off.
Home to so-called ‘yuppies’ and kale-loving celebrities alike, it’s been rumoured that the miniature dog population outnumbers that of humans in this North London park. It’s worth the risk of being swamped by doggie duffel coats and their ostentatious owners though, as the views of Central London from the top of the hill are as picturesque as the many film sets it’s been featured in.
bugaboos, yoga mats, tiny Chihuahuas and organic low-fat chai lattes
With acres of sprawling green space, the Heath is a little taste of the countryside in the heart of the city. In fact, it’s so vast that getting from the South End Road entrance to Highgate Village on the other side requires a passport, phrase book and notice of extended leave. But with the lido, swimming ponds and semi-professional running track along the way, half the fun is in the journey.
joggers (bonus points for the odd out of breath politician), superstar rap artist ‘Dave in Charge’, llamas in Golders Hill Park and the 18th century ghost that haunts Kenwood House
Tucked behind the Olympic Park, the Marshes are renowned for their rolling expanses of wild grassland, varied wildlife and football pitches. The E9 destination may soon have a new claim to fame however, as the recent mass-migration of hipsters to the area has turned it into a favourite amongst those seeking a lifestyle that’s definitely more alternative than yours.
beards, overpriced vintage clothing, struggling artists, ironic gestures and leftover cans of craft beer
In a world of fast cars and designer handbags you’ll find Kensington Gardens, a Chelsea hot spot with a suitably royal edge. Backing onto Kensington Palace and home to the Princess Diana Memorial (which doubles up as an awe-inspiring Peter Pan themed playground) you’d be forgiven for thinking a distant connection to the Queen or gold AMEX card is required for entry.
Russian oligarchs, trophy wives, the cast of Made in Chelsea, Kate and Wills (bonus points for a first-look sighting of Princess Charlotte)
This park is often cited as a must-do for tourists and, given its central location, it’s not hard to see why. For best results, try to keep focused on reaching your destination and frustration to a minimum as you fend off map-yielding visitors (admittedly a near-impossible task for most Londoners).
confused-looking tourists, selfie sticks, Sherlock Holmes, the US Ambassador (or one of his scary bodyguards) and stray lemurs from London Zoo
Rosie has recently graduated from Manchester University with a degree in Sociology. She currently writes her lifestyle blog ‘Sass Diaries’, alongside various other freelance projects.
