Regent’s Canal is one of our absolute favourite parts of London, and a walk along its towpath is something special. It’s even more magical in winter, when lights twinkle from inside the colourful narrowboats lining its edges, and the scent of wood fires drifts from their chimneys.
The canal stretches across nine miles from Little Venice to Limehouse Basin, passing through Regent’s Park, Camden, King’s Cross, Islington, Dalston, Hackney and Mile End. Whether you do the full length or only part of it, it’s a glorious walk.
Pub stop: The Constitution, NW1 0QT
Warm up with a pint of real ale in The Constitution’s atmospheric bar, or huddle around the wood-burning stove in its pretty beer garden. If you’re lucky, you might catch some live music in the cellar bar.
When it comes to cemeteries, Highgate has it all – stunning Victorian funerary architecture, eerily beautiful plant life, famous residents – making a wander around its overgrown pathways one of our top London walks.
Celebrity names you might spot amongst the 53,000 graves include George Eliot, Karl Marx, and perhaps most excitingly, Jeremy Beadle. Trees and shrubs twist among the tombstones, providing a romantic backdrop to a peaceful, contemplative stroll.
Pub stop: The Flask, N6 6BU
The Flask’s beautiful historic interior, cosy fire and decent selection of ales make it the perfect place for a post-cemetery pitstop – and if you’re lucky, you might run into one of the pub’s resident ghosts.
Perhaps more so than anywhere else in London, Hampstead Heath feels like an escape into the countryside. Woodland paths, sweeping parkland and lots of wildlife make a ramble across the idyllic heath one of the best London walks in wintertime.
If you’re in the mood for a bit of heritage, pop into the stunning Kenwood House and explore its extensive art collection and beautiful neoclassical interiors. And don’t forget to climb up to the top of Parliament Hill for a breathtaking view of London.
Pub stop: The Spaniards Inn, NW3 7JJ
Housed in a Grade II listed building, The Spaniards has been an iconic Hampstead Heath boozer since 1585. Follow in the footsteps of Dickens and Keats and stop for a mid-ramble pint in one of its snug corners.
The section of the Thames Path from the Thames Barrier to Greenwich is a real treat for a wintry walk. The barrier’s imposing silver segments mark the beginning of a superb riverside stroll, with spectacular views across the Thames and a striking industrial backdrop.
Finish the walk with an amble around Greenwich Park, and climb the hill up to the Royal Observatory for a sterling vista out over the city.
Pub stop: The Cutty Sark, SE10 9PD
A riverside walk wouldn’t be complete without a riverside pint, and The Cutty Sark is just what the doctor ordered. Grab a seat near the window in the top room if you can, and enjoy fantastic views of the river.
We hope our list of London walks has inspired you to venture out of hibernation, don a hat and scarf and explore the city.
Check out The Insider for more recommendations of things to do in London!