Top Rated Parks to Visit in Norbiton

"If you have absolutely no knowledge of London and are unable to find England on a map, you’ve probably still heard of Hyde Park. Being the most famous of London’s parks, it’s arguably the most touristy, but you won't see anyone it's huge. Hyde Park stretches across 350 acres of royal expanse, where visitors can enjoy a spot of boating, tennis and even horse riding."

"Originally created in 1536 as a private hunting ground for King Henry VIII, Hyde Park has been at the centre of many important historical events. Today, it’s a beautiful place for a day out, with a busy calendar of concerts and events, and something always going on at the famous Speakers Corner. Hyde Park © Flickr David Corcoran"

"Firstly, to get there (Richmond is in zone four, at the end of the District line), and secondly, to ensure you don’t get lost in the sprawling 800 acres of green. The famous wildlife – especially the herds of deer – will make your pilgrimage, and the possibility of being declared missing, worth it. Pembroke Lodge sits at the top of Richmond Park (and even has free parking), where you will can enjoy a traditional English tea in elegant Georgian dining rooms."

"Renowned for its unrefined woodland gardens and deer herds, Richmond Park boasts a rich history (including notable royal connections dating back to Edward’s reign in 1272), ancient trees, historic buildings and vast amounts of wildlife – the park is in fact a national nature reserve."

"This ancient expanse of common land straddling a high ridge between Hampstead and Highgate is, perhaps, London’s most beloved open space. Its rolling hills and meadows, copses and glades, glittering ponds and views conjure a deep sense of the rural that simply doesn’t exist elsewhere. A summer’s picnic in the long grass, kite-flying on Parliament Hill or tobogganing down it in the snow, a splash in the bathing ponds, a Sunday ramble to emerge muddy-booted at a village pub or Kenwood (no.3) – these are sacred institutions for many, many Londoners, who would probably lay down their lives for the Heath if they had to."

"So everyone knows about Hampstead Heath but it’s still the place to go for a picnic. Not only is it massive, so plenty of room for everyone, but you get mega views from the top of Parliament Hill, you’ve got the ponds and a lido for when you wanna take a dip and it’s a lovely walk up to Kenwood House."

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

"Less than an hour from central London, Kew Gardens provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city – and of course some Instagram gems. Set over 300 acres and comprised of over 50,000 living plants, this UNESCO World Heritage Site will take you on a captivating journey through a variety of ecosystems. There’s plenty of things to do in Kew Gardens, so set aside at least a few hours, although you could easily turn it into a full day trip from London!"

"Plant Houses Nos. 7 to 14b inclusive were collectively known as the "T" Range because of their T-shaped plan. The extant Aroid House (now the Nash Conservatory) was designated Plant House No. 1 and the Water Lily House was Plant House No. 15."

"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."

"I’ve always felt torn between the two, and I’ve been incredibly grateful for London’s parks lately. It’s so nice to get a nature fix even while being confined to the city."

"There is a story that, many years ago, a royal once enquired of a courtier how much it would cost to close St. James's Park to the public."

"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."

"The mound is an extensive, flat, green grassland that’s perfect for sunbathing and walking. It is located east of Plumstead Common, so it is ideal for everyone in East London. Best of all, Winn’s Common boasts a beautiful shallow pool that can be used for paddling."

"Make sure you share the Valrhona dark chocolate fondant which comes with raspberry sorbet. Why is it the perfect romantic restaurant?. Dim lighting and impeccable service, you can also stay over."

"We’ve expressed our love for Jefferson’s time and time again, and with good reason, their ice cream selection is on a whole new level. Stemming from a love of natural food and free from artificial flavours, Jefferson’s is devoted to celebrating quality. The ice cream is made in-house every morning, using only the finest ingredients available."

"This Balham dessert bar serves up fresh ice cream made with organic milk in flavours like caramel popcorn, vanilla honeycomb, and cold-pressed coffee. If you don’t want just one scoop, you can also get stacked sundaes, milkshakes, waffles, crepes and more."

"If you have absolutely no knowledge of London and are unable to find England on a map, you’ve probably still heard of Hyde Park. Being the most famous of London’s parks, it’s arguably the most touristy, but you won't see anyone it's huge. Hyde Park stretches across 350 acres of royal expanse, where visitors can enjoy a spot of boating, tennis and even horse riding."

"Originally created in 1536 as a private hunting ground for King Henry VIII, Hyde Park has been at the centre of many important historical events. Today, it’s a beautiful place for a day out, with a busy calendar of concerts and events, and something always going on at the famous Speakers Corner. Hyde Park © Flickr David Corcoran"

"Less than an hour from central London, Kew Gardens provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city – and of course some Instagram gems. Set over 300 acres and comprised of over 50,000 living plants, this UNESCO World Heritage Site will take you on a captivating journey through a variety of ecosystems. There’s plenty of things to do in Kew Gardens, so set aside at least a few hours, although you could easily turn it into a full day trip from London!"

"Plant Houses Nos. 7 to 14b inclusive were collectively known as the "T" Range because of their T-shaped plan. The extant Aroid House (now the Nash Conservatory) was designated Plant House No. 1 and the Water Lily House was Plant House No. 15."

"Fulham Palace is a site dedicated to tracing its own history. Items found on the palace's grounds date all the way back to prehistoric times; the archaeological finds are part of the museum's impressive collection of artifacts and objects. The site has been a residence of the Bishops of London since 704 and played a major role as a hospital during World War I and a refugee spot during World War II."

"A beautiful open garden, glasshouses, flowers in bloom, and brick walls, all in a place less visited by tourists which make for one great location for a photo shoot or a private event. And if you’re looking for some diversity, just walk a few steps out of Fulham Palaceand you’re right on the shore of river Thames."