The change of the season is the perfect reason to head to Central London for a fall foliage tour. The autumnal colors change the landscape at London’s parks and green spaces and are evident as early as late September. If you’re planning a trip to Europe this fall, consider adding a fall foliage tour at one of London’s most popular parks to your itinerary. Here are a few places to take in the autumn scenes and enjoy the crisp fall air in London:
Hyde Park
The autumn foliage in Hyde Park is a not-to-be missed event each year. Take a walk around the major lakes and green spaces in the park to see the leaves of weeping beech trees, oak trees and the famous “upside-down tree” change colors. Enjoy a picnic near Marble Arch and don’t forget to visit the rose garden while you’re there. Hyde Park is within easy reach of Kensington Gardens, Wellington Arch and the Artillery Memorial.
Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath offers a refreshing change of pace from the hustle and bustle of Central London, a largely woodland area that has become a popular place for an afternoon stroll or break from the city. It’s an ancient London park and home to a nature reserve, three open-air swimming pools and the stately Kenwood House. Head here to trek through the ancient woodlands and admire the trees and plants with autumn leaves. Be sure to explore the area around the Highgate and Hampstead Ponds, Parliament Hill Fields and Golders Hill Park for some of the most breathtaking sights.
St. James’s Park
Located in the City of Westminster, St. James’s Park is one of the Royal Parks of London and sits right next to Buckingham Palace. Head here for a fall foliage tour and catch a glimpse of some of the resident pelicans and other birds before they head off on their annual migration. Relax by the pond to take in the scenic sites, walk across the bridge over St. James Park Lake and see the vibrant fall colors framing the famous Duck Island Cottage on site.
Whether you’re exploring one of the Royal Parks of London or want to trek through some ancient woodland areas steeped in history, you’ll find several venues throughout the city for a self-guided fall foliage tour. Set your sights on any of the above destinations when visiting London this fall.
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