Best Nature and Parks (RV, National, Dog, etc) in Elephant & Castle

"The largest of London’s Royal Parks and one of the most important places in the country for wildlife conservation, spawling Richmond Park covers an area of 2,500 acres on the edge of the capital and is one of the best places to escape the noise of the city and spend a day out in London for free. You can take a long walk through the lush woodlands and around the numerous ponds, cycle along the off-road Tamsin Trail, spot the park’s famous deer and abundance of other wildlife, and climb to the top of King Henry’s Mound for views back over central London."

"Escape to the great outdoors in Richmond Park with its wide open spaces, grasslands and deer herds, just a stone’s throw from central London. The park is a top UK site for ancient trees and supports a range of rare species including fungi, birds, beetles, bats, grasses and wildflowers. Discover the Isabella Plantation woodland gardens, refuel at Pembroke Lodge tea rooms and enjoy distant views of St Paul’s Cathedral from King Henry’s Mound."

"This is, without a doubt, the BEST place to take wildlife photos in London. So, if that’s your jam, this is your place!. The deer are the main attraction, but there are plenty of other animals."

"If the ladies’, men’s and mixed bathing ponds seem a bit too murky, take your children to the lido, instead. While still brisk, the water here tends to be warmer, and after you tire the children out in the water, roam the heath and find the perfect picnicking spot for the day. The heath has no great playgrounds – though, if you must, there are plenty in neighbouring Hampstead and Highgate – but the glorious park offers endless space for roaming, plenty of wooded areas for discovering natural forts, and space for sport."

"Part of what makes Hampstead Heath so special is its wild beauty — check it out in all its rugged glory here. The other part is the stunning views of the capital it boasts, which makes the heath perfect for picnics, as does its proximity to some stellar delis and bakeries. It's also a cracking choice for a weekend ramble — thesetwo take in much of the Heath."

"Hampstead Heath is technically in London, but because of its size, you will feel like you have left the busy capital behind you. It is beautiful in every season. There is a lot to explore."

"In 1759 botanists began rummaging around the world for specimens to plant in the 3-hectare Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. They never stopped collecting, and the gardens, which have bloomed to 121 hectares, provide the most comprehensive botanical collection on earth (including the world's largest collection of orchids). A Unesco World Heritage Site, the gardens can easily devour a day's exploration; for those pressed for time, the Kew Explorer hop-on/hop-off road train takes in the main sights."

"12 km from city center 9 out of 40 places to visit in London. A World Heritage Site, London’s Kew Gardens is famous for its sprawling landscape and an impressive collection of flora and fauna. It is home to the world’s most diverse and enchanting species of flora, spread over 121 hectares, and in existence for more than 250 years."

"Smaller than the other green open spaces in the heart of London, St. James’s Park is surrounded by other important tourist spots:. Originally purchased by Henry III, the park was completely transformed by James I, who wanted it full of exotic animals and birds. Since then, the aspect of St. James’s Park suffered further modifications, but it continues to be a significant part of London’s identity."

"This is a well-known park in Westminster, central London and it’s a great pit stop for a picnic lunch if you’re tired after a morning of sightseeing around the area. A sunny day here is a day well spent and the playground is sure to please children from toddlers to under-eights thanks to its sand, swings and climbing areas."

"This Royal Park is definitely a contender for London’s prettiest green space. The wildlife seem to think so too as they’re to be found in abundance, from swans to pelicans and squirrels. Best shot: from The Blue Bridge towards Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade, depending on the light at the time of your visit."

"Situated in North London, Highgate Wood is one of the four ancient woods of the London Borough of Haringey (together with Queen’s Wood, Coldfall Wood and Bluebell Wood). Containing an impressive variety of trees and shrub species, the Highgate Wood is the home for many foxes, grey squirrels, as well as multiple species of birds, bats, butterflies and spiders. Besides the fact that it was included among the eight Green Heritage Sites in London, Highgate Wood also attracts visitors with its recreational facilities like children playgrounds, cafés, walking trails and sporting fields."

"The paddling pool for children and the enclosed play area is available to the kids. Parents can enjoy the cafe, tweens or teens the tennis courts and netball/basketball facilities."

"Windsor Great Park stretches south from Windsor Castle almost all the way to Ascot, 7 miles southwest. Accessed via Park St, it covers just under 8 sq miles and holds a lake, walking tracks, a bridleway, gardens and a deer park where red deer roam free. Its 2.7-mile Long Walk, scene of the royal wedding procession in 2018, leads from King George IV Gate to the 1831 Copper Horse statue (of George III) on Snow Hill, the park's highest point."

"Established in the second half of the seventeenth century by the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries, the Chelsea Physic Garden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in England. Included among the London Museums of Health and Medicine, this botanical garden has some unique features attracting tourists interested in botany. Noteworthy mentions are Britain’s largest fruiting olive tree and the world’s most northern grapefruit that grows outdoors."

"Alternatives: There are many other things to see in the area (mostly in Chelsea), including the Chelsea Physic Garden (fee*), Leighton House Museum (fee), Design Museum, Portobello Road Market, Chelsea Football Club Stadium Tour & Museum (fee*), and the recently renovated National Army Museum. London Itinerary Day 6 – Greenwich or Free Day"

"After lunch we stopped at Kew Palace, a 17th century building that was the summer home of King George III in the 18th century. It’s actually the oldest building in Kew Gardens and it has been turned into a museum showcasing the history and bringing to life King George and his wife Queen Charlotte and their 15 children’s lives in the palace over the three levels. There is a perfectly manicured garden out the back which gives a stunning view."

"A trip here offers more than just plants, as you can also visit art galleries, the Great Pagoda, and tour Kew Palace, a former royal residence located within the gardens. You can explore at your own pace or join one of the garden’s guided walk tours that come free with entry. This is a must-see for any garden lover. Kew Gardens are located in outer London and can be reached by public transportation."

"The 17th-century home of King George III, who preferred the countryside to the urban St James's Palace. Today only the building known as the Dutch House remains, however it is kept in immaculate condition."

"In 1759 botanists began rummaging around the world for specimens to plant in the 3-hectare Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. They never stopped collecting, and the gardens, which have bloomed to 121 hectares, provide the most comprehensive botanical collection on earth (including the world's largest collection of orchids). A Unesco World Heritage Site, the gardens can easily devour a day's exploration; for those pressed for time, the Kew Explorer hop-on/hop-off road train takes in the main sights."

"12 km from city center 9 out of 40 places to visit in London. A World Heritage Site, London’s Kew Gardens is famous for its sprawling landscape and an impressive collection of flora and fauna. It is home to the world’s most diverse and enchanting species of flora, spread over 121 hectares, and in existence for more than 250 years."

"Take in the tranquility of the almost secret rooftop bar in The Trafalgar, St James, Curio Collection by Hilton hotel, safe in the knowledge that nobody in Trafalgar Square below is as lucky as you. Grab a premium cocktail at The Rooftop and settle back into the cosy seating, as you see eye to eye with Nelson. Open daily, year-round"

"The Garden at 120 is the City of London’s latest rooftop spot, offering free entry without the need to pre-book. The location sits above the multi-colored crown of Fen Court and offers views to the South, East and West. The North offers an amazing close-up view of Gherkin tower."

"Perfect for a swoon-worthy date night or special occasion meal, The Rooftop St James boasts spectacular views over Trafalgar Square and beyond. Swing by on the weekend to feast on classic brunch plates while getting well acquainted with the extensive cocktail menu."

"Enjoy the theatrical open kitchen at acclaimed Indian restaurant, Amaya, in Belgravia. Tuck into a range of seafood, meat and vegetarian food at this swish venue from the team behind Chutney Mary and Veeraswamy. Although contemporary in nature, the dishes here are cooked using traditional techniques, whether in the tandoor oven, over coals or on a hot grill plate."

"This June, Nadeem Lalani Nanjuwany and Ravinder Bhogal’s Marylebone eatery Jikoni will become the first carbon neutral independent restaurant in the UK. Sustainability has been on the founders’ minds since opening in 2016, and since 2019 the restaurant has been powered by solar power, wind power and carbon neutral ‘green gases’. But over the past few months they’ve taken things to the next level by partnering with non-profit organisation Climate Neutral."

"Ravinder Bhogal’s cooking is clever, different and defiantly multicultural – and the brunch menu is no different. Tamarind and maple-glazed bacon is served with fenugreek waffles and fennel slaw, while a spicy fish cake is topped with a poached egg and curry hollandaise. More favourites from Jikoni are also on the menu at brunchtime, including the prawn toast scotch egg, which is served with banana ketchup and pickled cucumber."

"If there's one thing we want to be seen doing, it's dining beneath a marigold awning. And so we shall be going to Jikoni to eat on their covered terrace. Complete with wool blankets, statuesque heaters and hot water bottles on request, even the most eclectic weather doesn't stand a chance here (and neither do the sweetcorn and lime leaf fritters once we've seen them)."

"It’s no wonder that Frankie and Benny’s is one of the most popular places to eat in Wembley Park – they serve up your favourite Italian American classics at a reasonable price. Your little ones will love their cod goujons, cheesy tomato pizza, and crispy chicken breast nuggets. With options on their kids’ menus for big eaters, small eaters, and babies, they have parents covered."

"Frankie & Benny’s is known for classic Italian American dishes and diner favourites, as well as an extensive kids’ menu sure to please the little ones. Tuck into cheesy chicken parmigiana, an ultimate mixed grill, or a vegan Margherita pizza, with outdoor dining and table service to keep everyone safe. No reservation required."

"On the Twickenham side of Richmond Bridge, this traditional Italian has been dispensing its version of Bella Italia for more than a decade – and the locals love it. The interior is stylishly suburban (note the smart monochrome decor), while the kitchen rustles up a perky assortment of capably crafted regional classics such as gorgonzola risotto or peposo (Tuscan braised beef in red wine)."

"This stylish, independent Italian restaurant is a favourite of well-heeled locals for suppers and celebrations on account of its seasonal fare and excellent wine list. Each week, the Head Chef and his team pick the best ingredients to create traditional Italian favourites, from pasta and pizza to meat and fish dishes, so you can be sure of a hearty meal whatever the occasion."

"418 Richmond Road, Twickenham TW1 2EB, EnglandReservations, Seating, Waitstaff, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full BarItalian, European, Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free OptionsLunch, DinnerHK$110 - HK$549+44 20 8288 0108"

"A family favourite for hordes of Richmond locals, this neighbourhood Italian (family-run, of course) has been doing its thing on Kew Road for more than a decade. It may be dressed up in fashionable contemporary garb, but this is a diehard trattoria at heart and the food presses all those familiar comfort buttons – arancini balls, homemade pasta, saltimbocca, calf’s liver, tiramisu. The decked forecourt gets rammed in summer."

"This genuinely friendly family-run Italian is popular with locals and visitors alike on account of its authentic food and charming service. Bacco may have all the visual trappings of a contemporary Italian restaurant, but at its heart is an old-fashioned trattoria so diners can expect classic pastas and simple antipasti as well as more expensive dishes come evening. It’s also handy for theatre-goers."