March 20th marks the first day of spring 2023, and it’s certainly a date we’ve all been waiting for with much anticipation. Through the wind, rain and snow of winter, spring is the month we look forward to, lifting our mood as the nights become lighter and longer and the days brighter and warmer.
The first day of spring is also a time when all sorts of beautiful things start to emerge outside. Blossom begins to bloom, dotting the landscape with bursts of white and pink. The early leaves start to unfurl, delighting us with the freshest greens we’ve ever seen, and the sound of birdsong intensifies, filling the air with sweet song. It is for sure a joyous season, and one that inspires us to get outside and enjoy all that nature has to offer.
If you live or work in the city, spring is the time to be getting out and enjoying the best of London’s green spaces.
Green spaces are renowned for their ability to boost the well-being and health of those who work and live in urban areas. They can also indirectly affect health by improving the quality of the air that we breathe.
Sold on the merits of spending time surrounded by the delights of nature? Read on for our top picks of the best of London’s green spaces so you can celebrate the first day of spring indulging in the true pleasures of the season.
Battersea Park sits on the banks of the River Thames. Make a stop off here and you’ll enjoy an oasis of green against the iconic city backdrop. Stroll amongst formal gardens, hire a bicycle for an invigorating spring ride, or try your luck at mini golf. There’s also a children’s zoo where you’ll find Shetland ponies, otters, monkeys and even wallabies.
St James’s Park expands out from its legendary lake and is home to many species of wild birds and waterfowl. Marvel over the resident pelicans at feeding time, and take in the vibrantly coloured flower beds that pave the way to the glorious Buckingham Palace. For sure one of the most loved of London’s green spaces, St James’s Park, with its 57 acres of impressive walkways, stunning views and famous lakeside café, should definitely make your list of things to celebrate the first day of spring.
Green Park is another of London’s green spaces that sits alongside Buckingham Palace. A sanctuary of trees and well-kept lawns, the 40-acre park is a peaceful triangle of mature trees and grasslands. Meander through fountains, statues and memorials, and look out for the Royal Gun Salutes when ceremonial guns are fired to mark special royal occasions.
Hyde Park is one of central London’s largest parks, extending across 350 acres of gardens and lawns. The Serpentine is the park’s main feature. Hire a boat and get out on the water to enjoy the spring sunshine; take respite in one of the waterside cafés, or indulge in an invigorating swim at the Lido. On the other side of the Serpentine you’ll find Kensington Palace, where the Diana Memorial Playground sits amidst its pleasant gardens. If you’re looking for something to do to celebrate the first day of spring, Hyde Park could make the perfect choice.
Regent’s Park is one of the most popular of London’s green spaces, with its tree-lined pathways and formal gardens, fountains, statues and memorials. Covering more than 400 acres, the park also presents the visitor with excellent sports facilities, and plays host to central London’s largest outdoor sports area. Hire a rowing boat; admire the 100 species of wild birds, take in a play at the Open Air Theatre or pay a visit to London Zoo. In terms of things to do this first day of spring onwards, Regent’s Park is up there with the best.
Rathbone Square is not necessarily on everyone’s list of London’s green spaces to visit, mostly because it’s something of a hidden haven in the West End. This is a place that literally has it all, from juice bars, coffee shops and cafés, to restaurants, retail outlets and hair and beauty salons. So how come it makes our list of London’s green spaces? Well when you see the peaceful gardens that it’s all set around, you’ll instantly see why.
At Rathbone Square, you get to revel in the gorgeous planted landscape; enjoy the early spring sunshine and admire the sights of the first leaves budding from the trees, all whilst relishing the sound of the birds twittering in the shrubbery. It’s a place that often comes as a surprise to visitors to West London, purely because few expect to see such a sanctuary of green space amidst the hubbub of city life.
Looking to enjoy the best of London’s green spaces this first day of spring? Visit Rathbone Square!
Rathbone Square is a three minute walk from Tottenham Court Road tube and seven minutes from Oxford Circus.
If you’re looking to spend some quality time in one of London’s green spaces and best-kept secrets, and make something special of the first day of spring, why not stop by? We look forward to welcoming you.
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