When London bakes under the summer sun, the usual suspects fill up fast: Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, St James’s Park. But if you know where to look, there are quieter corners of the city that feel a world away from the crowds. Here are some of my favourite spots to escape the heat, stretch out on the grass, and enjoy London at a slower pace.

1. Hampstead Heath Alright, Hampstead Heath in NW3 isn’t a secret. But even on a busy day, it has a way of swallowing the crowds. There’s something timeless about its wild meadows, shady woods, and the view from Parliament Hill that never gets old. And when the sun gets too much, those who dare can take a dip in one of the swimming ponds. The Mixed Pond and the Ladies’ and Men’s Ponds are refreshingly cool, with just enough wildlife to make you forget you’re in a major capital city. Bring a towel, a good book, and let the afternoon drift by. Here are some pics of me over the years in this part of London I love.

I spent over a decade living in Belsize Park, just a short walk away. Spotting celebrities was almost part of the routine. Ricky Gervais and his wife Jane, Helena Bonham Carter and Tim Burton by the Tesco in England’s Lane, Noel Gallagher picking up groceries in the M&S near Hampstead Overground. No one makes a fuss — that’s just London. We’re busy, we’re cool, we mind our own business.

To get to Hampstead Heath, you have plenty of options, but taking the Overground is one of the easiest. Both Hampstead Heath and Gospel Oak stations drop you right by the park, ready for a peaceful walk or a lazy afternoon swim. Bus 24 from central London will also get you there .

2. Ravenscourt Park (Hammersmith) Just off the busy King Street in Hammersmith, Ravenscourt Park has a peaceful, neighbourhood vibe. It’s not huge, but that’s part of its charm. Shady tree-lined paths, a sweet little walled garden, and plenty of open lawns make it perfect for a quiet afternoon. Kids splash in the paddling pool while locals sip coffee from the kiosk. Grab a takeaway sandwich from one of the nearby cafes and claim your spot under the old plane trees. Fun fact: the Made in Chelsea reality TV show often films scenes here, so you might even spot some of the cast here if you are a fan of this British reality show.

3. Bishop’s Park (Fulham) Next to Fulham Palace and the Thames, Bishop’s Park is often overlooked by visitors. The riverside walk is breezy and peaceful, with rowers gliding past and plenty of benches to pause and watch the world go by. In summer, open-air cinema nights or small markets occasionally pop up, adding a bit of festive atmosphere. The combination of formal gardens and wide-open lawns makes it perfect for both a slow wander or a long, lazy picnic.

4. Morden Hall Park (Merton) A little further south, Morden Hall Park always feels like a discovery. Managed by the National Trust, it offers a mix of open meadows, quiet woodland, and waterways where you might spot herons or even a kingfisher if you’re lucky. The old stable yard houses a lovely cafe, perfect for iced coffees or stocking up on picnic treats. It’s easy to forget you’re still within London’s borders.

Photo by Candid Flaneur on Pexels.com

5. A Riverside Bicycle Ride: Hammersmith to Chiswick For me, nothing says London summer like cycling along the river. When I was 23, I spent nearly an entire summer on my bike, lazily following the Thames Path west from Hammersmith Bridge. The route is flat and scenic, hugging the water through peaceful stretches dotted with pubs that almost demand you stop for a cold pint on a sunny terrace. I’d often pause at Furnivall Gardens to watch the rowers glide by or just sit with a sandwich to do nothing and enjoy life in peace.

Back then, the Riverside Studios were my second home — before the big renovation, when they still screened world cinema classics in a slightly scruffy but wonderfully intimate space. I have vivid memories of locking up my bike, grabbing an ice cream, and settling in for some French Nouvelle Vague film. And of course, the soundtrack of that particular summer was everywhere: Travis’ “Why Does It Always Rain On Me” seemed to play from every pub and car radio. Those were the days.

If you’re planning it today, pack a picnic, follow the river towards Chiswick House and Gardens for a bit of grandeur, and park up by the water for lunch. The view feels miles away from central London, even though you’re only a few tube stops from the heart of the city.

Even in these quieter spots, London’s summer sun can be relentless. But with a little planning, you’ll discover some of the best ways to enjoy the city at its most relaxed.