With flexi-lockdown allowing us to venture further afield, we can now explore new parks in and around Wimbledon. Remember to be aware of the guidelines for keeping safe when in public places. We find early morning or early evening the quietest time – especially if there are more than two of you in your household.
Wimbledon offers some of the best parks in South West London, here’s our list of must-visit parks in and around Wimbledon for adults and children.
Morden Hall Park
Morden Hall Park and Watermeads are now open. The Garden Centre will re-open (10am-4pm) from 22 May. The cafés and bookshop at Morden Hall Park will remain closed until further notice. Parking for Garden Centre only, no through access to park.
Wimbledon Park
With one of the largest lakes in south London, and located right by the All England Lawn Tennis Club where the Wimbledon Championships take place, Wimbledon Park tops our list. Children will enjoy feeding the beautiful swans and ducks that float across the lake, as well as the many activities available.
Holland Garden
A less well-known park, even among Wimbledon folk, Holland Garden is a wonderful secluded place to go for some peace and quiet. You can get the kids doing laps on their bikes using the pathway that goes around the garden.
Dundonald Park
The Dundonald Recreation Ground is one of the most fun parks for children. Aside from the play area and sporting grounds, there is a beautiful rose garden on the other side of the park, perfect for a relaxing walk with your loved ones or for some alone time.
Cottenham Park
The field of green beside Cottenham Park is great for picnics, bike rides or walking your dog. There are also benches around the field for those who want to open up a book and get lost in their imagination on a relaxing sunny day!
Cannizaro Park
Cannizaro Park, adjacent to Wimbledon Common, is part of the stunning grounds behind Hotel du Vin. This secluded yet popular place of tranquility is perfect for everything from peaceful meditation and taking long walks in the woods and floral plantation gardens, to picnics in the front green field and playing a round of frisbee!
The pond allows for one to connect with nature, while there is also a variety of majestic trees of all kinds in the park.
Fishponds Wood
Tucked behind Wimbledon RFC, a whole other world exists. The enchanted Fishponds Wood is a secluded wonderland where you can enjoy quiet walks with the family or to practice meditation alone.
Immerse yourself in nature and find a secret place that no one passes to enjoy a picnic before you head home.
Wimbledon Common
A vast open space, note it can get busy. You’ll find more space along the paths amongst the trees. Enter the vast common by the Fox & Grapes.
Morley Park
Morley Park is located in West Wimbledon, between Copse Hill and Cottenham Park Road. It comprises playing fields, a pavilion, woodland and meadow.
Richmond Park
The park is a top UK site for ancient trees and supports a range of rare species including fungi, birds, beetles, grasses and wildflowers.
Bushy Park
Linked to Hampton Court Palace by the Longford River, Bushy Park is famed for its mix of waterways, gardens and grassland, and roaming herds of red and fallow deer.
Look out for the bronze Diana fountain at the end of the mile-long Chestnut Avenue, designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Visit the Upper Lodge Water Gardens, Woodland Gardens and Pheasantry Café. And see if you can spot birdlife including woodpeckers, kingfishers and kestrels.
Guidance On Spending Time Outdoors
From 13 May 2020 people in England can spend more time outdoors and enjoy a wider range of activities for any length of time, subject to social distancing rules. There is new guidance on spending time outdoors available here: gov.uk/government/news/new-guidance-on-spending-time-outdoors.
Do check travel and parking before making the journey to the different parks and outdoor spaces.
Written By: Eyes of Lady Wimbledon | Editor
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