London Landmarks: Must-See Outdoor Spots for Every Local

Staying indoors in London feels like a missed opportunity, especially with so many must-see landmarks sitting right in the open air. Whether you’re walking everywhere or love a cheeky ride on the Thames Clipper, the city’s outdoor icons are just waiting for you to explore them. Ever noticed how Hyde Park completely changes with the seasons? Dog owners, joggers, and families all have their favourite corners, from the Italian Gardens to the Serpentine—each spot comes with its own vibe.

It’s easy to get stuck in the routine of passing by Westminster Abbey or the London Eye without actually taking them in. These hotspots aren’t just for tourists. Locals who give themselves permission to act like visitors sometimes find a new pride in their city. As someone who’s taken her dog Bella down South Bank more times than she can count, I can say some of the best people-watching, music, and street food happens where London’s big landmarks meet their buzz.

• Iconic Landmarks in London’s Great Outdoors
• Beyond the Pics: Underrated Outdoor Gems
• Tips for Exploring with Your Dog or Kids
• When and How to Visit: Insider Tricks

Iconic Landmarks in London’s Great Outdoors

If you want to see what makes London tick, you have to get outside and straight into the heart of its London landmarks. You know the big names: Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye. Each spot gives you a totally different view of the city, whether you’re looking for royal history, sweeping river scenes, or killer selfies.

Let’s start with Hyde Park. It’s not just a green space—it’s where locals go for open-air concerts, the Serpentine swim, and even Speaker’s Corner if you’re in the mood for debate. Statistically, around 12 million people visit Hyde Park every year. There’s no entry fee, and you can bring your dog (as long as Bella doesn’t chase after the swans).

Now, there’s something classic about strolling The Mall up to Buckingham Palace. The daily Changing of the Guard is back post-pandemic (usually around 11am), and you can get there easily from Green Park or St James’s Park stations. Fact: over 15 million tourists stand outside the Palace’s gates each year, but you’ll notice plenty of locals cycling through the nearby parks on their way to work. Pro tip: visit early on a weekday for quieter snaps and less crowd stress.

If riverside landmarks are your thing, South Bank is unmatched. Walk from the London Eye down to Tower Bridge and you’ll pass some of the city’s best street performers, food stalls, and pop-up book markets. South Bank Centre has events almost every weekend and plenty of outdoor seating. Tower Bridge opens for boats about 800 times a year, so if you’re lucky, you might see this slice of Victorian engineering in motion (check the bridge’s lift schedule online before heading out).

Here’s a quick look at how busy these places get throughout the year:

One more tip: if you want to see everything but hate long walks, try a Santander Cycles ride between these outdoor icons. Docking stations are everywhere, and rentals are cheap. With a bit of planning, you can cover miles of London without losing steam—or missing out on a flat white at one of the riverside cafes.

Beyond the Pics: Underrated Outdoor Gems

London’s got a reputation for big icons, but there’s a lot more than Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge. If you’re craving places that haven’t been picked apart by every Instagrammer, these hidden spots hit the mark. You can actually escape the crowds without leaving the city—seriously.

Let’s talk about Postman’s Park. It’s right near St Paul’s, but so tucked away that you could miss it. The wall of memorial tablets, all honouring ordinary people who did something heroic, makes this place feel special every time. The shady benches are perfect for a sandwich break if you’re working in the City or just wandering nearby.

Meanwhile, Burgess Park in Southwark doesn’t get the hype of Hyde Park, but it’s massive and way less crowded. Locals use its lake, BMX track, and barbecue spots every weekend, and you won’t be fighting for space. Plus, for dog owners, Burgess is much more relaxed about off-lead pups than you might expect.

Ever heard of Epping Forest? It’s just about a 30-minute ride from Liverpool Street on the Overground, but it feels like proper countryside. The walking trails go on forever, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot one of the ponies roaming around or see families building dens in the woods. Perfect spot if you need a real break from the concrete.

If you’re after a garden that feels straight out of a secret story, head to the Kyoto Garden in Holland Park. It’s got a Japanese vibe, waterfalls, and even peacocks. Not your average picnic spot. Around 5pm, after the nearby offices thin out, it turns peaceful—even better for a midweek unwind.

• Postman’s Park: Under the radar, packed with real London stories.
• Burgess Park: Loads of green space, less fuss, barbecue-friendly.
• Epping Forest: Wild, untamed, and surprisingly close. Bring wellies if it’s rained!
• Kyoto Garden, Holland Park: Tranquil, unique, almost always less crowded by late afternoon.

So don’t just tick off the usual London landmarks. Spread out, and check out the gems hiding in plain sight—you’ll probably start wondering why you didn’t go sooner.

Tips for Exploring with Your Dog or Kids

Trying to wrangle the chaos of a day out with kids or a dog in London? You’re not alone. Here’s how to make the most of the city’s outdoor landmarks without losing your cool (or your wallet).

• Research dog-friendly spaces: Regents Park and Hampstead Heath are top choices, but did you know the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park welcomes dogs on-lead? Many spots, like Greenwich Park, are known for their dog-walking crowds, though you’ll want to skip places like Buckingham Palace Gardens and parts of Kew where pets aren’t welcome.
• Bring supplies: Hydration is key—though London’s weather loves to keep you guessing. Many parks have public water taps or cafes happy to fill up a bottle or dog bowl. Snacks and a portable poop bag holder will save you from mid-adventure meltdowns, whether you’ve got a toddler or a terrier in tow.
• Mind the rules: Most outdoor London landmarks require dogs to be on a lead in busy areas or sensitive wildlife spots. Playgrounds often have ‘no dogs allowed’ signs, so check notices at gates to avoid the dreaded side-eye from other parents.
• Check for family events: The Royal Parks host seasonal fun like open-air cinema or pop-up play zones. Southbank Centre’s Riverside Terrace is a crowd-pleaser with regular street performers and art installations that kids (and, honestly, grown-ups) love to stumble upon.

The London Underground lets you bring dogs (on a lead or in a carrier), and most kids under 11 travel for free with a paying adult—no need to worry about expensive cab rides. Keep an Oyster or contactless card handy for quick platform hops. If you’re cycling, Santander Cycles stations cluster near parks, but remember: no dogs allowed in the baskets.

One last thing—don’t forget sun cream in summer or extra layers when the temperature dips. Even on a grey day, these outdoor adventures create the kind of memories worth more than any admission ticket.

When and How to Visit: Insider Tricks

If you want to see London’s best outdoor landmarks like a pro, timing matters. Most locals know that Saturday afternoons near Buckingham Palace or Tower Bridge are a real headache, but there’s a sweet spot. Try going on weekday mornings, especially before 10 am. You’ll beat the crowds and even grab better photos. Sunrise walks through Regent’s Park or along the South Bank just feel calmer—and yes, coffee stalls usually open by 8 am even on Sundays.

Don’t forget how fast British weather switches. Check the Met Office app before heading out. If you're bringing kids or your dog, keep raincoats and a portable water bowl handy. Google Maps and Citymapper aren’t just for tourists; real Londoners use them to dodge closed stations or bus delays—especially when big events (like the London Marathon or Pride) affect central areas.

Some London landmarks now require advance booking even for outdoor spots. The Sky Garden is a good example—it’s free, but you need a ticket. Hampton Court Palace’s gardens are stunning and perfect for a quick countryside feel, but tickets run out during school breaks. For open-access places like Hampstead Heath or Primrose Hill, aim for evenings; sunset views are unbeatable, and local chip shops nearby do a roaring trade.

Easy tip: bring a tap-to-pay card or your phone. Hardly anyone uses cash now, and that goes for everything from ice cream vans at Greenwich Park to public loos. Also, if you’re cycling—Santander Cycles are everywhere, and docking stations fill up near the river in decent weather, so check bike availability before you set out.

Here’s how crowd levels often stack up through the year:

If you want to make your day extra smooth: pack snacks from Pret, Greggs, or even Borough Market because queues at landmark-adjacent cafés can be ridiculous at lunchtime. Not a fan of crowds or tourist traps? Simple fix: try hidden gems just outside central London, like Chiswick House Gardens or Crystal Palace Park, for just as much drama and way fewer people.