Connect to nature
Playful otters, ancient oak trees, rolling parklands and wildflower meadows: yes, this is London we are talking about! Home to some of the most amazing habitats and nature experiences going, here is our list of the top 10 parks and reserves to visit in our green city.
And if you are tempted to visit one of these or similar places, don’t forget to take an all-important selfie! You could win a London guide book if you remember to tag us on Instagram with @roe_southlands, using the hashtag #RoeLondonLife
London Wetland Centre
OK, we’re biased, but this is our favourite nature reserve and comes highly recommended to all our students and staff. Learn more about the thriving wetland wildlife in this small but perfectly formed network of lakes, ponds, green pathways and fascinating habitats. Regular feeding of the beautiful Asian otters guarantees you an up-close and personal encounter with some amazing creatures, with guides also on hand to talk you through the colourful variety of birds that flock to the site. Show your Roehampton ID card for £4 off entry prices, or go for the young adult membership of just £2.50 a month (18 to 24 years old).
www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/london
Richmond Park
This vast royal park borders the western side of Roehampton, visible from parts of Whitelands College. So no excuse is needed to take a stroll across through the Roehampton gate to immerse yourself in the surprisingly rural landscapes. Famous for its herds of deer and some ancient oak trees, there is also the flower-filled Isabella Plantation to be found, plus some amazing views across to the city of London.
www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/richmond-park
Wimbledon Common and Putney Heath
Not much further to walk than Richmond Park, our university is lucky enough to have some great natural spaces on two sides. To the south of Roehampton lie the tree-covered beauty spots of Wimbledon Common and Putney Heath, with paths to explore, ancient earthworks, ponds, and even an ancient windmill with a handy café below.
Kew Gardens
The world-famous Kew Gardens has a listing in the Guinness Book of Records: this amazing strip of gardens, plantations and hot houses is the single most biodiverse place on planet Earth. With more plant species you could shake a stick at (16,900 at the last count), there are endless nooks and crannies to explore, and eye-catching new installations and artworks appearing all the time. Entry prices are pretty reasonable for students, and well worth it for the endless opportunities and a great day out; book online for cheapest prices.
Hyde Park
The grandest of London’s green spaces, Hyde Park is one of the most precious oases of natural calm found in any bustling city. Right next to all manner of visitor attractions, from the shopping of Oxford Street to the royal history of Kensington Palace, it is easily accessible and provides a haven of peace and natural beauty. With cafes to enjoy, the huge Serpentine lake to walk round, and even a famous art gallery (free entrance), this is the green heart of London and not to be missed by any visitor to our great city.
www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/hyde-park
Hampstead Heath
Famed for its outdoor swimmers, who brave the waters of its bathing ponds all year round, Hampstead Heath is a much-loved slice of rural calm situated on the north side of London, with fine views over the city. There’s even some ancient earthworks on the heath’s hilly landscape, testament to the very long history of London life. Bathing ponds are available for women, men and mixed swimming.
Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill
Yet another famous central London park, these two green spaces are next to each other, separated only by a road. Regent’s Park is famous for housing London Zoo, an important research and information centre that focuses on conservation and educational work, a great place to inspire any student. Over the road to the north, Primrose Hill is famed for some of the most famous views over London.
www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/regents-park-primrose-hill
Hampton Court gardens and Bushy Park
On the other side of Kingston lies one of Britain’s most beguiling landscape gardens and royal residences, in the shape of Hampton Court. With luxurious wildflower meadows, extensive historical gardens, and an amazing 400-year-old grape vine that still produces fruit, the grounds of Hampton Court and the adjacent Bushy Park have more than enough space to lose yourself in for an afternoon – literally so when it comes to the famous palace maze made out of yew trees.
www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace/
Lee Valley
If you live anywhere near East London, this fabulous riverside park is an absolute must to visit. And if you don’t live nearby… visit it anyway for a wonderful afternoon appreciating the natural beauty and neatly kept parkland alike.
Roehampton’s grounds
And finally… yes, just look out the window if you want to rest your gaze on some beautiful green landscapes. Our university is blessed by the most wonderful and diverse mix of habitats, with three lakes and ponds (there’s a hidden one at Whitelands) it attracts a wide range of wildlife living alongside us as we work and study. Hedgehogs, foxes, squirrels, newts, and a very wide variety of birds find refuge in our much valued green spaces. There’s even a small bluebell wood in the old apple orchard, on the path between the library and the Froebel lake, bringing some springtime colour around April time.