Best Nature and Parks (RV, National, Dog, etc) in Epping Forest

"Richmond Park is best known for its herds of deer, but it’s also home to many ancient trees and rare species. It’s one of the best Royal Parks to wander around at the weekend, but it’s also great for active families. It offers cycle routes (including an off-road trail), horse riding and a golf course."

"Want to feel like you're in the countryside without leaving London?. Head to Richmond Park, a 2500 acre national nature reserve that's teeming with rare species of fungi, birds, beetles, bats, grasses, wildflowers and more. Just remember to watch out for the deer — especially if it's rutting season."

"A little further afield but worth the trip is Richmond Park. London’s largest park is home to deer and various other wildlife, woodlands, hills, trails for riding and walking and large open fields."

"Hampstead Heath offers stunning views over the city, but one could be forgiven for not noticing, as there's an awful lot to do there. If you aren't taking a dip in one of the ponds (there are single and mixed options) or the Parliament Hill Lido, you could be running circuits on the athletics track or visiting the Golders Hill zoo. For sheer childhood pleasure, though, the model boating pond is difficult to top (for God’s sake, don’t try to get in for a swim)."

"While it doesn’t have the biodiversity of Kew, Hampstead Heath is a public park that has something else worth taking in—a view. While the woods and ponds are certainly lovely themselves, what really draws people is Parliament Hill, which offers one of the highest natural views of the city. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic to celebrate the day."

"For generations, Londoners have headed to Hampstead Heath to escape the dirt and noise of the city, and this unique 791-acre expanse…"

"According to Wikipedia, “Kew Gardens is the world’s largest collection of living plants”. From the exotic glasshouse gardens filled with succulents and tropical blooms to a stroll down to the Chinese Pagoda, there’s much to see and photograph. A great perk, if you’re a member, you can get to visit Kew before any of the tourists, which means you could almost have the place for yourself, to enjoy as you please."

"Take a break from the hustle and bustle of London and retreat to the beautiful and relaxing Kew Gardens. This green oasis in southwest London is believed to be the largest and most diverse botanical garden on earth. You can book single visits online, or if you’re a local, you might like to consider becoming a member for free entry year-round."

"Founded in 1840, using plants from Kew Park in Middlesex, Kew Gardens is one of the largest and lushest botanic gardens in the world."

"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."

"With its royal, political and literary associations, St James's Park is at the very heart of London and covers 23 hectares (58 acres). With a lake harboring ducks, geese and pelicans. St James's is also home to the Mall, the setting for many ceremonial parades and events of national celebration."

"For a breath of fresh air, take a walk through St. James’s Park en-route to Buckingham Palace. The park is one of eight of the city’s Royal Parks and has over 50 acres of green spaces, flower beds, and even a lake that contains some famous resident pelicans."

"While Richmond Park is by far the most famous park in the area, Old Deer Park is an open space dedicated to sports facilities and community events. It has play areas, tennis courts, an outdoor gym and sports pitches. You can also access Pools on the Park, a sports, fitness and pool complex."

"Restaurants Pizza Fulham. This pizza outfit puts real heart into its traditional Neapolitan offering and ticks all the boxes for families with kids: prices are honest, flavours are true, there are plenty of vegan options for young converts and you can book in advance. Owners Angelo and Pasquale also specialise in premium toppings – try the san giuseppe with smoked mozzarella, rare-breed Yorkshire sausage and wild broccoli."

"Ealing’s homage to Naples and one of London’s pioneering Neapolitan pizzerias is still delivering from its original site (and from Chelsea and Fitzrovia, as well). Flash-cooking in a wood-fired oven blisters the crust of these excellent pizzas, while the interior remains chewy and yields spectacularly. Toppings are almost accessories, given the quality of the base, but there too, there’s quality — nduja, fior di latte, the tomatoes."

"The romantic powers of Julie’s are legendary – there is even a booth nicknamed “The G Spot” in homage to the amorous endeavours rumoured to have taken place in its enclosed nook. Having reopened and celebrated its 50th birthday last year, the restaurant is embarking on a new era with acclaimed chef Shay Cooper at the helm, but the low-lighting, ruby red banquettes and Neo-Gothic decor are all still keeping the passion alive. 135 Portland Road, W11 4LW, juliesrestaurant.com"

"A Holland Park institution for their modern British cooking, Julie's has had the clever thought to expand the capacity of their terrace in light of the current situation. Since 1969, it's been one of the most elegant terraces in London on which to socialise with loved ones over their utterly lovely food. It's on a quiet back street in west London that oozes charm and makes you feel like you're somewhere completely remote."

"One of the loveliest spots in West London reopens with a new chef-patron, Shay Cooper. 135 Portland Road, Holland Park, Holland Park, London, W11 4LW. Tube: Holland Park Station"

"On your second day in London you’re going to head a little to the West, and take in some of the sights in this area, starting with Kensington Palace. Inextricably linked with Queen Victoria, who was born here, Kensington Palace is a Royal Residence, and has been since the 17th century. Today it’s occupied by both Princes William and Harry, and whilst you can’t visit the private Royal Residence, you can tour the State Rooms."

"Kensington Palace (fee*) is a royal residence set in Kensington Gardens. It began as a fairly humble 17th century two-storey Jacobean mansion and was expanded by the royal family into the giant royal residence it is today."

"Between Waterloo and Hungerford bridges you can retreat to the landscaped Victoria Embankment Gardens, where you will find an unmatched tranquillity in this tourist area. In the summer recline on deckchairs and take in a bandstand performance."