Gardens and nature in London

A family guide to London

Gardens, nature reserves and green spaces for slower family adventures outdoors.

London's gardens and green spaces suit slower family adventures. Victoria Embankment Gardens is a peaceful public garden with free tulip displays, and Canary Wharf Roof Garden is a covered rooftop garden at Crossrail Place with free entry, greenery and cafes downstairs, a good place for a quiet break in the day. Kennington Park and Vauxhall Park both have lavender, and Mayfield Lavender Farm is listed too. Horniman Museum and Gardens is a quirky museum with views of the city skyline, and its gardens sit alongside family crafts and a spring fair. Alexandra Palace has hosted a children's art exhibition inspired by the child in nature, with painting with clay mud, drawing using burnt wood and making nests, and is home to The Summit at Ally Pally, a 130m-high climbing and viewing experience with 360-degree views across London, for ages 8 and up. Families who love nature and getting creative can visit the Bonsai Treehouses exhibition, where kids build their own miniature treehouse to take home. Hainault Forest and Hainault Forest Express offer a train ride through the forest, a free adventure playground and farm animals, a budget-friendly day in nature. Gardens, nature reserves and green spaces for slower family adventures outdoors.