Autumn in London is one of the city’s most magical seasons. As the days grow cooler and the trees turn to shades of gold, orange and red, London’s parks and green spaces become the perfect backdrop for long, peaceful walks. Whether you’re after deer-spotting in Richmond, skyline views from Greenwich, or hidden woodland paths in Hampstead Heath, there are endless opportunities to enjoy the season. To help you plan your next outing, we’ve rounded up the 10 best places in London for an autumn walk.
1. Richmond Park
London’s largest royal park is unbeatable in autumn. Its ancient oak trees glow in shades of gold and amber, and the sight of red and fallow deer rutting makes it one of the season’s most atmospheric walks.
- Location: Richmond, TW10 5HS
- Highlight: Deer spotting and panoramic views from King Henry’s Mound
- Website: royalparks.org.uk/parks/richmond-park
2. Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath feels wild and untamed compared to other London parks. In autumn, its woodland paths and open meadows turn fiery with colour, offering sweeping city views from Parliament Hill.
- Location: Hampstead, NW5 1QR
- Highlight: Autumn sunsets over the London skyline
- Website: cityoflondon.gov.uk/hampstead-heath
3. Kew Gardens
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kew Gardens bursts with autumn colour. The Japanese Garden, arboretum, and treetop walkway are especially stunning in September and October.
- Location: Richmond, TW9 3AE
- Highlight: Japanese maples and vibrant arboretum foliage
- Website: kew.org
4. Greenwich Park
One of London’s oldest royal parks, Greenwich Park provides spectacular views across the Thames and the City. Autumn adds a golden frame to the iconic skyline.
- Location: Greenwich, SE10 8QY
- Highlight: Sweeping views from the Royal Observatory
- Website: royalparks.org.uk/parks/greenwich-park
For residents, Union Wharf makes Greenwich life feel like parkland living right on the river. If you’re exploring the neighbourhood, don’t miss our guide to the best cafés in Greenwich.
5. Hyde Park
Central London’s green jewel, Hyde Park is particularly charming in autumn with golden horse chestnut trees and the Serpentine lined with amber reflections.
- Location: W2 2UH
- Highlight: Strolls around the Serpentine
- Website: royalparks.org.uk/parks/hyde-park
6. Epping Forest
Technically just beyond London’s borders, this ancient woodland is worth the trip. Oak, beech, and hornbeam trees create a stunning autumn canopy.
- Location: Epping, IG10 4AF
- Highlight: Vast woodland walks and wildlife watching
- Website: cityoflondon.gov.uk/epping-forest
7. Regent’s Park
Regent’s Park combines elegant gardens with wide open spaces. The Avenue Gardens and tree-lined paths showcase autumn at its most picturesque.
- Location: NW1 4NR
- Highlight: Autumn reflections at the boating lake
- Website: royalparks.org.uk/parks/the-regents-park
8. Battersea Park
This riverside park transforms in autumn with its Japanese pagoda framed by crimson leaves. The Thames views are especially beautiful in low autumn light.
- Location: SW11 4NJ
- Highlight: Peace Pagoda surrounded by autumn colour
- Website: wandsworth.gov.uk/batterseapark
9. Dulwich Park
A South London favourite, Dulwich Park offers a leafy autumn escape with boating lakes, horse riding, and tree-lined avenues. It’s perfect for families and weekend strolls.
- Location: SE21 7EB
- Highlight: Picturesque tree avenues glowing in autumn
- Website: southwark.gov.uk/dulwich-park
If Dulwich catches your eye, read our guide to the best places to live in South London, featuring leafy neighbourhoods like Dulwich and Greenwich.
10. Bushy Park
Neighbouring Hampton Court Palace, Bushy Park is one of London’s royal parks filled with chestnut trees and free-roaming deer. Autumn is rutting season, making it especially dramatic.
- Location: Hampton, TW12 2EJ
- Highlight: Deer rutting in golden meadows
- Website: royalparks.org.uk/parks/bushy-park
Why London is Perfect for Autumn Walks
London’s abundance of royal parks, hidden gardens, and historic woodlands means you don’t need to leave the city to enjoy autumn at its finest. From riverside strolls in Greenwich to deer spotting in Richmond, there’s a walk for every mood and moment.
For more lifestyle guides and London living insights, visit Homequarters.co.uk.
FAQs: Autumn Walks in London
Where is the best place in London to see autumn colours?
Richmond Park and Kew Gardens are top spots, thanks to their variety of trees and wide-open landscapes.
Are autumn walks in London free?
Yes, most parks are free to enter, but some, like Kew Gardens, charge an entry fee.
When is the best time to see autumn colours in London?
Late September through early November is the peak season for autumn foliage.
Which London park has deer in autumn?
Richmond Park and Bushy Park are famous for their free-roaming deer, especially during rutting season.
What’s the quietest park for an autumn walk in London?
Dulwich Park and Hampstead Heath offer more peaceful alternatives to central parks.
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