Exploring England Parks: Natural Beauty and Scenic Walks
- MiG
- Nov 25
- 4 min read
I spent the first five or six years of my life in London after moving to the UK, and I have always admired the beauty and care of its parks. The city’s architecture is stunning and diverse, reflecting a rich tapestry of history. Even at night, London’s green spaces feel almost magical, framed by softly glowing streetlights and silhouetted buildings. Later, I moved to Surrey, which felt like stepping into a completely different world — rolling hills, peaceful villages, and a gentler pace of life. Living in England has been a truly magical experience, especially when it comes to discovering its natural beauty and parks. Over the years, I’ve made it a point to explore as many of these green spaces as I can, and each visit reveals something new.
The Beauty of London Parks
One of my favourite places in London is Greenwich Park. Perched on a hill, the park offers panoramic views over the River Thames, the Isle of Dogs, and the City of London. From One Tree Hill, you can glimpse the Royal Observatory, the Queen’s House, and other historic buildings. The park has deep roots in history — it’s been enclosed since the 15th century and even contains the site of a Roman temple. Walking through it feels like stepping into a painting, especially at sunset when the sky turns pink and orange, and the Thames glistens in the light.
Discovering the Richness of Surrey
When I moved to Surrey, it felt like entering a quieter, more peaceful side of England. One of the most memorable green spaces for me was Windsor Great Park, especially the stretch known as The Long Walk. This iconic tree-lined avenue was originally commissioned by King Charles II in the late 17th century, and it still stretches for about 2.5 miles toward Windsor Castle. The grandeur of the Long Walk — flanked by majestic trees and open vistas — is breath taking.
Windsor Park also has a Deer Park that is home to a semi-wild herd of red deer, offering a real connection to nature. For me, the best time to visit is just before sunset. The warm golden light bathes the trees and lawns, and if you’re lucky, you might spot deer grazing in the peaceful shadows.
If you’d like to bring a piece of this serene golden sunset home, you can buy my canvas print of Windsor Great Park, capturing the tree reflections in the puddle at sunset.
Wandering Through Wanstead Park
Back in London, one of my quieter escapes was Wanstead Park. It’s not the biggest or most famous park, but to me, it’s special. There are serene lakes, ancient trees, and a wonderful sense of peace. I have a vivid memory of watching the sky turn purple and blue at dusk, the lake reflecting those colours so beautifully — it felt almost ethereal. If you’re an early riser, catching the sunrise here is equally magical. The calm of the morning, the birds, the still water — it's a lovely way to begin a day.
Unveiling the Tranquillity of Abbey Park
On my travels across England, I discovered Abbey Park in Leicester. This beautifully maintained park spans about 89 acres, featuring gardens, decorative landscaping, a boating lake, and the ruins of a medieval abbey. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect place for picnics, reflective walks, or just sitting by the water. During golden hour, when the light softens, the pond and surrounding gardens feel truly magical. I always recommend bringing a blanket and just taking a moment to soak it all in.
Virginia Water: A Natural Wonderland
One summer, I visited Virginia Water, part of the Windsor Great Park, and it absolutely took my breath away. The lake here arcs beautifully, surrounded by trees, and the walking paths wind through ancient woodlands. One of the highlights is the Cascade, a 30-foot waterfall that feels especially enchanting after rain. Nearby, you can also find the Leptis Magna ruins — inspired by columns and stones from the ancient Roman city of Leptis Magna in Libya. It’s a place that feels timeless, where history and nature blend seamlessly.
Tips for Visiting England’s Parks
If you’re planning your own explorations, here are a few things I’ve learned:
Timing is Everything: The golden hour (just before sunset or after sunrise) offers the most stunning lighting.
Pack a Picnic: Bring snacks, a blanket, and take the time to sit and enjoy.
Explore on foot: Walk the trails slowly — some of the most magical parts of a park are tucked away.
Bring a Camera: Whether a phone or a DSLR, you’ll want to capture reflections, architecture, and changing light.
Be respectful: Leave no trace. These parks are treasured landscapes — treat them with care.
Why England’s Parks Mean So Much to Me
To me, the parks of England are more than just green spaces — they’re living, breathing sanctuaries. Each place I visit offers a different story: the royal echoes of Windsor, the ancient calm of Leicester’s Abbey Park, the urban serenity of Greenwich, and the wild beauty of Virginia Water. Walking through these parks, I feel deeply connected to nature and to history — and those moments of peace, wonder, and discovery stay with me long after I leave.
If you haven’t yet explored England’s parks, I truly encourage you to do so. Whether you’re in a city or the countryside, there’s always a green space waiting to surprise you, calm you, and fill your heart with joy.
Thank you for letting me share a bit of my journey. I hope this inspires you to explore some of England’s most beautiful parks for yourself. Have you visited any of these places? Or is there a special green space in England that means a lot to you? Please leave a comment and let me know — I’d love to hear your stories.