London


<p>If you’re back to the office and craving a healthy habit to break up your work day, why not trade a desk-bound lunch for a quick dose of nature? And even if you&#8217;re working from home, these nine secret wellness walks are worth tracking down for a refreshing boost. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-secret-garden-vibes-st-dunstan-in-the-east-church-garden"><strong>1. Secret Garden Vibes:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-to-do/city-gardens/find-a-garden/st-dunstan-in-the-east-church-garden"><strong>St Dunstan in the East Church Garden</strong></a></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="560" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-12.16.17-1024x560.png" alt="" class="wp-image-5104" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-12.16.17-1024x560.png 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-12.16.17-300x164.png 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-12.16.17-768x420.png 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-12.16.17.png 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image @ National Churches Trust</figcaption></figure>



<p>Tucked away in the heart of the City, St Dunstan in the East Church Garden is an enchanting hideaway, where nature and history collide. Set within the romantic ruins of a Wren church, this secret walk feels like stepping into a movie set—complete with draping greenery, a fountain, and cosy benches that are perfect for a peaceful moment or a sneaky Insta snap. Originally built in the 1100s, St Dunstan’s has survived the Great Fire of London and took another hit in the Blitz of 1941. Despite its turbulent past, Wren’s tower and steeple still stand tall. Rather than rebuild, the City turned the ruins into a magical public garden in 1970. It’s a pretty walk to boost your lunchtime batteries.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Getting there</strong>: Nearest tubes: Monument or Tower Hill (yes, it’s that central!) Use the TfL Journey Planner for an easy route, or get fancy with what3words: ///lives.cool.freed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-inspire-yourself-in-the-postman-s-park-the-memorial-to-heroic-self-sacrifice"><strong>2. Inspire yourself in&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-to-do/city-gardens/find-a-garden/postmans-park"><strong>The Postman’s Park:</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;The Memorial to Heroic Self Sacrifice</strong></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="713" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-12.07.27-1024x713.png" alt="Postman's Park in London " class="wp-image-5101" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-12.07.27-1024x713.png 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-12.07.27-300x209.png 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-12.07.27-768x535.png 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-12.07.27.png 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image @ Fran The Now Time </figcaption></figure>



<p>Tucked away in Postman’s Park, this memorial park isn’t your average London landmark. It’s a heartstring-tugging tribute to 54 everyday heroes—‘ordinary’ people who made the ultimate sacrifice to save someone else’s life. Let’s just say, it might put your keyboard angst into perspective. Postman’s Park, named for its proximity to the old General Post Office, has been a lunchtime haven for city workers for decades. Film buffs might even recognise it from&nbsp;<em>Closer</em>&nbsp;(hello, Jude Law!). Whether you’re a history geek, a film lover, or just looking for a peaceful escape from London’s hustle, this walk in the park delivers.</p>



<p><strong>Getting there:&nbsp;</strong>Postman’s Park, EC1A 7BT. Open 8am – 7pm (or dusk), free entry. Nearest tube: St Paul’s</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-lose-yourself-in-the-magic-of-kensington-gardens"><strong>3.&nbsp;Lose Yourself in the Magic of&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/kensington-gardens?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwooq3BhB3EiwAYqYoEpU9Yef1eMPkOaYkN4HFUcSNrMHonl7f2XFZsthHA2Mqr2DbOyMI-BoCA6AQAvD_BwE">Kensington Gardens</a></h2>



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<p>Originally part of Kensington Palace’s royal grounds, Queen Caroline’s 18th-century dreamscape is now open to us all—and it’s still just as extraordinary. With its grand tree-lined avenues, colourful flower walks, wild meadows, you’ll see why generations of writers and artists have fallen under its spell – including J.M Barrie the creator of Peter Pan (head towards Peter’s statue on your work for inspiration from the Lost Boy himself). After communing with all things Neverland, swing by the imposing Albert Memorial for some more serious musing and then head over to the stunning Italian Gardens, where cascading fountains and picture-perfect symmetry will refresh your mind – all in 20 minutes.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Getting there:</strong> Nearest tubes: Queensway or Lancaster Gate.&nbsp;Opens daily at 6am and closes at dusk.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-4-discover-kyoto-garden-in-holland-park"><strong>4.&nbsp;Discover&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/parks-leisure-and-culture/parks/holland-park">Kyoto Garden in Holland Park</a></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-12.11.30-1024x666.png" alt="" class="wp-image-5103" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-12.11.30-1024x666.png 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-12.11.30-300x195.png 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-12.11.30-768x499.png 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-12.11.30.png 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image by Gonzalo Facello </figcaption></figure>



<p>Tucked away in West London’s Holland Park lies the tranquil Kyoto Garden—a hidden park that feels worlds away from the city&#8217;s hustle. This garden oasis was gifted by the city of Kyoto in 1991 to celebrate the Japan Festival, and it’s been captivating visitors ever since. Complete with a peaceful waterfall, koi-filled pond, and winding cobbled paths, it’s the perfect spot for a little wellness wander.</p>



<p>As you stroll through the garden, don’t forget to pause and soak in the traditional Japanese stone lanterns and vibrant autumnal trees. Feeling extra lucky? You might just spot one of the park’s resident peacocks strutting by, adding a dash of unexpected colour to brighten up your work day.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Getting there:</strong> Nearest tube stations:&nbsp;Kensington High Street&nbsp;(Circle and District Lines) and&nbsp;Notting Hill Gate&nbsp;(Central, Circle, and District Lines). Both are just a short walk from Holland Park’s entrance.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5-the-perfect-epping-forest-escape-awaits"><strong>5.&nbsp;The Perfect&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://efht.org.uk/?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwxY-3BhAuEiwAu7Y6s6kfrmG3oNJzbNnVyDlA_qGBIEqQgvLSjAvQStgr1PmoGWcu3HD4gBoCznwQAvD_BwE">Epping Forest</a><strong>&nbsp;Escape Awaits!</strong></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="610" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-11.59.05-1024x610.png" alt="Epping Forest " class="wp-image-5100" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-11.59.05-1024x610.png 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-11.59.05-300x179.png 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-11.59.05-768x457.png 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-11.59.05.png 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">@VisitEppingForest.org</figcaption></figure>



<p>Looking to get lost in nature? Epping Forest has you covered with over 284km of trails across 8000 acres, making it the ultimate escape from the city grind.</p>



<p>With 10 circular routes, there’s something for every level, from the gentle&nbsp;<em>Willow Trail</em>&nbsp;around Connaught Water (perfect for a quick 20-minute stroll) but if you just want to go AWOL (or have a walking meeting) try the more challenging&nbsp;<em>Oak Trail</em>&nbsp;near Theydon Bois, which offers 3-4 hours of forest magic. Don’t worry if you’re directionally challenged—the routes are well-signposted, so you won’t need to consult your map every five minutes.</p>



<p><strong>Getting there: </strong>Nearest tubes: Central Line&nbsp;to stations like&nbsp;Loughton,&nbsp;Theyden Bois,&nbsp;or&nbsp;Snaresbrook,&nbsp;all of which are just a short walk from various trailheads. For the southern parts of the forest,&nbsp;Chingford Station&nbsp;(Overground) is another great option.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-6-feel-less-stressed-in-little-venice"><strong>6. Feel less stressed in&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/canals-and-rivers/places-to-visit/little-venice"><strong>Little Venice</strong></a></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/819f66aac606c1ef23220825a910f63c-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-5099" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/819f66aac606c1ef23220825a910f63c-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/819f66aac606c1ef23220825a910f63c-300x169.jpg 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/819f66aac606c1ef23220825a910f63c-768x432.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/819f66aac606c1ef23220825a910f63c.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image Little Venice @Visitlondon</figcaption></figure>



<p>Tucked away in West London, Little Venice offers a serene escape along its picturesque canals, just north of Paddington. Perfect for a secret wellness walk, start your walk where the Grand Union and Regent’s canals meet, and follow the peaceful towpaths upstream. As you meander, you’ll pass by quaint waterside cafes, quirky canal boats, and picturesque pubs. Got a bit of extra time? Take a boat ride along the canals with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jasons.co.uk/">Jason&#8217;s Trip</a>&nbsp;or London Waterbus &#8211; you can enjoy the sights while staying relaxed on the water. End your walk at one of Little Venice’s beautiful hidden spots, the enchanting Rembrandt Gardens, a quiet retreat just steps away from the canals.</p>



<p><strong>Getting there:</strong> Nearest tube stations: Paddington and Warwick Avenue, both just a short walk away. Follow the signs for the Grand Union Canal from Paddington or take a scenic five-minute stroll from Warwick Avenue.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-7-rewild-yourself-in-the-isabella-plantation-richmond-park"><strong>7. Rewild yourself in the&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/richmond-park/isabella-plantation"><strong>Isabella Plantation</strong></a>,&nbsp;<strong>Richmond Park</strong></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="698" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-11.56.43-1024x698.png" alt="Isabella Plantation Richmond Park " class="wp-image-5098" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-11.56.43-1024x698.png 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-11.56.43-300x205.png 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-11.56.43-768x524.png 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-11.56.43.png 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Ready to get lost in a fairytale woodland? Isabella Plantation is tucked away, a 20-minute walk into the heart of Richmond Park and is a stunning 40-acre woodland garden. Originally established in the 1830s as a Victorian plantation (because why not?), it officially opened to the public in 1953 and has been wowing visitors ever since. The garden is part of the Richmond Park Site of Special Scientific Interest, and it’s all managed with Mother Nature in mind. No nasty chemicals here—just organic principles and plenty of wildlife-friendly planting. Think nectar and berry-filled trees, ponds, and streams providing homes for birds, bats, amphibians, and more little critters than you can shake a stick at.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Getting there:</strong> Isabella Plantation is located within Richmond Park. Go to Richmond Station served by: National Rail (South Western Railway), London Overground, and District Line (Underground).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-8-wellness-walk-with-a-view-in-victoria-tower-gardens"><strong>8. Wellness Walk with a view in&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/victoria-tower-gardens?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwxY-3BhAuEiwAu7Y6s3fmsYLbJLO8r15BQj_F4aBb0WRWdZQg2K3y3H3mBojqM1PI5eOauxoC_GEQAvD_BwE"><strong>Victoria Tower Gardens</strong></a></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-11.54.40-1024x683.png" alt="" class="wp-image-5097" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-11.54.40-1024x683.png 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-11.54.40-300x200.png 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-11.54.40-768x512.png 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-25-at-11.54.40.png 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">View of the Thames from Victoria Tower Park @ RoyalParks.org</figcaption></figure>



<p>Tucked away by the Thames and just a stone’s throw from Westminster, Victoria Tower Gardens is the perfect spot for a peaceful 20-minute wellness walk. With stunning views of the Houses of Parliament and Lambeth Bridge, you’ll be treated to a spectacular London backdrop while soaking in the tranquillity of the river.</p>



<p>Begin your walk at the Buxton Memorial Fountain, which commemorates the abolition of slavery, and follow the gentle path along the Thames, letting the soothing sounds of the water set the tone. The beautifully maintained gardens are sprinkled with impressive statues and memorials. As you reach Lambeth Bridge, enjoy the sweeping view of Westminster’s stunning architecture. This short stroll is the ultimate combo: nature, history, and riverside vibes all rolled into one.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-9-victoria-park-bow"><strong>9. Victoria Park, Bow</strong></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Victoria-Park-spring-time-Pagoda-1024x683.jpg" alt="Victoria Park London " class="wp-image-5096" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Victoria-Park-spring-time-Pagoda-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Victoria-Park-spring-time-Pagoda-300x200.jpg 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Victoria-Park-spring-time-Pagoda-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2024/09/Victoria-Park-spring-time-Pagoda.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Victoria Park @towerhamlets.gov.uk</figcaption></figure>



<p>Welcome to&nbsp;<em>Vicky Park</em>—London’s oldest public park and a true East End treasure. Opened in 1845, this 86-hectare green oasis is known as &#8220;The People’s Park&#8221; and is the perfect spot for a quick 20-minute wellness walk. Whether you’re after a nature break or a moment of zen, this park has it all.</p>



<p>Start at the Royal Gates on Grove Road and stroll along the tree-lined pathways. You’ll pass beautiful lakes, wide-open lawns, and the stunning Chinese Pagoda. With ducks and swans gliding across the water and plenty of peaceful spots to sit and reflect, it’s the perfect place to unwind and recharge. You’ll often find free or donation-based outdoor yoga classes happening, near the West Boating Lake. Feel more energetic? The park’s perimeter loop (around 4km) is a popular running route.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Getting there:</strong> The nearest tube: Mile End. Alternatively, hop on the&nbsp;<strong>277</strong>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<strong>425</strong>&nbsp;buses to get dropped off right in the middle of the park!</p>


20-minute secret wellness walks in London

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