Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in Raynes Park

"For any list of the best parks in London, it’d be a crime to ignore Hampstead Heath. Closest to the Hampstead Heath overground, or the Hampstead station if you’re going via tube, here you can enjoy your sandwiches on top of Parliament Hill while taking in stunning views of London. It’s even got its very own swimming ponds should the weather be particularly nice."

"Elevate your London perspective – Hampstead Heath is one of the best places in London to see the city skyline. In fact, the view from Parliament Hill in the south-east corner of the park is protected by law. Make the hike up the 322-foot (98-metre) hill and you'll be rewarded with views of Canary Wharf, St Paul's Cathedral and many more top London sights."

"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."

"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."

"Full of rare and unusual trees and shrubs, the Isabella Plantation is a beautiful spot set in the depths of Richmond Park. It’s a green space for most of the year, but in April & May, the azaleas bloom and Isabella Plantation becomes a perfect pink paradise. COVID-19 UPDATE: Isabella Plantation is currently closed to the public."

"One of Europe’s largest inland wetland projects, this 42-hectare centre run by the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust was transformed from four Victorian reservoirs in 2000 and attracts some 140 species of bird, as well as frogs, butterflies, dragonflies and lizards, plus a thriving colony of watervoles. The glass-fronted observatory affords panoramic views over the lakes, while meandering paths and boardwalks lead visitors through the watery habitats of black swans, Bewick's swans, geese, red-crested pochards, sand martins, coots, bitterns, herons and kingfishers."

"Voted in 2012 as Britain’s Favourite Natural Reserve, WWT London Wetland Centre is an oasis of natural wildlife placed right in the heart of London. Managed by Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, this idyllic wetland reserve is located in a loop of the Thames and occupies more than 100 acres of land. Home for a significant number of unique species of birds, insects, amphibians and other wildlife representatives, the Wetland Centre represents a real natural wonder."

"Just ten minutes from Hammersmith, you'll get lost in the London Wetland Centre and its lakes, ponds and gardens. Aside from the daily guided tours, you can meet the otters, feed the birds, or take part in a host of family activities such as pond dipping and nature walks."

"This farm is little further out of London, but a whole day of adventure and fun can be enjoyed here, thanks to a huge array of facilities, besides the friendly animals. There’s indoor soft play at the Bundle Barn, an alpine toboggan run, Dino Dig and Splash play area and an adventure playground. Unlike most of the other city farms in London listed, there is a small entry price for this one (£10) but this includes entry to all indoor and outdoor play areas, activities, animals, bird shows and a tractor ride to the dairy farm."

"A post shared by Georgiebd (@georgie.bd) on May 26, 2018 at 10:23am PDT. Cycle along the paths or take a stroll at Lee Valley Regional Park. Stretching 42km (26 miles) along the river Lee, past Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and up to Ware in Hertfordshire, there is plenty of opportunity to spot wildlife, relax or play."

"If, however, you fancy extra flavour then head to Teddington’s popular brunch spot The Fallow Deer for their Greek-style scrambled eggs on souvlaki bread with feta, mint and chilli oil sautéed tomatoes."

"Hidden below street level in the swishy Hari Hotel, stepping into Il Pampero feels like stepping back into to a bygone era of Italian glamour, all white tablecloths, deep green furnishings, low lighting and charming Italian waiters. It’s elegant without being ostentatious, and the leather-clad window booths add an important touch of cosiness (perfect for a date). The glamorous central bar is irresistible for a classic Italian aperitivo (beware the deliciously strong Negroni) before sitting down to a feast of antipasti that include beef carpaccio with generous shavings of black truffle and surprisingly moreish fried scamorza (smoked cheese) bites served on a bed of radicchio with balsamic vinegar."

"20 Chesham Pl, Belgravia, London SW1X 8HQAlready a beloved staple of the Belgravia restaurant scene, il Pampero has been ushered into a new era under the expert guidance of a new Head Chef – the acclaimed Matteo D’Elia. And his new menu does not disappoint. Settle into the restaurant’s glamorous surroundings to enjoy a stylish, modern take on traditional southern Italian fare, made from the finest seasonal ingredients."

"Il Pampero is sure to impress with its exquisite selection of fresh pasta for adults and dedicated children's menu. With its stunning surroundings and Belgravia location, it's sure to be one memorable night out."

"Featuring more perfect views of the River Thames, this restaurant focuses on fresh and seasonal ingredients. Head Chef Andrew Cole ensures that service is friendly, responsive, and professional. With a relaxed, local-feel, and imaginative space, the ingredients really shine in all of the dishes here."

"I’m a travel writer and blogger who specialises in boutique 'flashpacker' travel. I cover boutique/luxury hotels, local food and wine and wellness travel. Royal parks, historic palaces, riverside restaurants, artisan chocolate shops..."

"Occupying disused bare-brick railway arches in Waterloo underground station, The Vaults is a striking space for alternative arts and immersive theatre. As well as jazz sets, indie plays, and alien-themed musicals, you can discover a continual rotation of art in its tunnels. This unique contemporary art gallery is said to feature artists who ‘have a natural affinity for the unusual, the daring, and the unknown’, and that is easy to see."

"Temakinho is one of the best sushi restaurants in London, thanks to its masterful blend of Japanese and Brazilian flavours. Get your fill of tasty small plates, punchy concoctions and party vibes at one of their stunning spots."

"Found along an unassuming side street in Clapton, Uchi is an authentic Japanese culinary experience like no other. Think minimalist furnishings, low lighting and a hand-written specials board and you can begin to imagine what your evening at Uchi will have in store. Select from a varied list of real-deal sake and make sure to try the unusual but sensational seared beef sushi."

"Restaurants Japanese Clapton"

"3 Church Road, Teddington, Richmond-upon-Thames TW11 8PF EnglandJapanese, Sushi, AsianLunch, DinnerDelivery, Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Highchairs Available[email protected]+44 20 3302 0811http://www.itabashi.co.uk"