London in winter is calmer, quieter and surprisingly scenic. With fewer crowds, crisp air and seasonal views, winter is an ideal time to explore the city on foot. From riverside routes to royal parks and historic streets, these are the best winter walks in London — all easy to reach and perfect for January.
Why Winter Is Ideal for Walking in London
Winter walking in London offers clear advantages. Parks feel more open, riverside paths are less busy and landmarks can be enjoyed without peak-season crowds. Shorter daylight hours also make London’s compact walking routes ideal for winter exploration without long travel times.
Hyde Park to Kensington Gardens
Typical route distance: 2–3 miles
Ease of track: Easy
This classic royal parks walk is one of London’s best winter options. Wide paths, open views and flat terrain make it ideal in colder weather.
Why it’s great in winter:
- Open landscapes and winter light
- Fewer visitors than spring and summer
- Plenty of cafés nearby for warming stops
Nearest stations:
Hyde Park Corner, Lancaster Gate, Queensway
Thames Path (South Bank stretch)
Typical route distance: 2–4 miles
Ease of track: Easy
The South Bank section of the Thames Path offers iconic London views with winter calm. Landmarks such as the London Eye and Tower Bridge feel more atmospheric in colder months.
Why it’s great in winter:
- Flat, well-maintained paths
- Excellent city views in clear winter weather
- Easy to shorten or extend the route
Nearest stations:
Westminster, Waterloo, London Bridge
Hampstead Heath
Typical route distance: 2–5 miles
Ease of track: Easy to moderate
Hampstead Heath offers some of London’s most natural-feeling walking routes, with rolling paths and panoramic views across the city.
Why it’s great in winter:
- Frosty mornings and clear skyline views
- Less crowded paths
- Woodland and open heath landscapes
Nearest stations:
Hampstead Heath, Gospel Oak, Hampstead
Greenwich Park and riverside
Typical route distance: 2–3 miles
Ease of track: Easy
Greenwich Park combines history, river views and gentle gradients, making it ideal for winter walking without challenging terrain.
Why it’s great in winter:
- Sweeping Thames views
- Fewer visitors around major attractions
- Well-maintained winter paths
Nearest stations:
Greenwich, Cutty Sark, Maze Hill
Regent's Canal
Typical route distance: 3–4 miles
Ease of track: Easy
Walking along Regent’s Canal from Little Venice to Camden offers a peaceful alternative to busy streets, even in central London.
Why it’s great in winter:
- Sheltered routes away from wind
- Quiet waterside scenery
- Cafés and markets at both ends
Nearest stations:
Warwick Avenue, Camden Town
Richmond Park
Typical route distance: 3–6 miles
Ease of track: Easy
Richmond Park feels more like countryside than city, making it one of the best winter walks in outer London.
Why it’s great in winter:
- Open landscapes and wildlife sightings
- Firm ground in colder months
- Wide paths suitable year-round
Nearest stations:
Richmond, Roehampton Gate access via bus
Conclusion
London winter walks combine scenery, history and convenience, making January one of the best times to explore the city on foot. Whether you prefer riverside routes, royal parks or peaceful canals, winter reveals a quieter and more atmospheric side of London.
For more seasonal inspiration, explore our guides to the best winter walks in the UK, January weekend trips from London, and where to find snow in the UK in January. If you’re staying local, our recommendations for Best Winter Date Spots in London and places to visit in London in winter offer even more ideas.
For renters seeking flexibility and design-led living, Homequarters.co.uk highlights premium rental options across the capital. If London is your base, discover Essential Living homes and use the search available apartments tool to find a space perfectly positioned for winter city living.
FAQs – Winter walking in London
Is winter a good time for walking in London?
Yes. Winter offers quieter routes, cooler temperatures and fewer crowds across parks and riverside paths.
Do you need special equipment for winter walks in London?
No specialist equipment is required. Comfortable waterproof footwear and warm layers are usually sufficient.
Are London parks open in winter?
Yes. Most royal parks and green spaces remain open year-round, with maintained paths throughout winter.
Can you do winter walks in London without a car?
Absolutely. All routes listed are accessible by public transport.
