Best Parks For Spotting Cherry Blossom In London

The sun is shining across London, a fitting treat for the start of spring. While the meteorological calendar states that spring begins on 1 March, the astronomical spring start date is 20 March this year – with the date changing annually based on the position of Earth’s orbit in relation to the sun. And what better way to celebrate than with a walk around one of the capital’s green spaces, which are beginning to fill up with spring flowers aplenty. 

Cherry blossom season is usually at its peak in April in the UK, but the pretty pink foliage is already starting to bloom – and according to the RHS, blossom levels are set to be off the charts this spring. Here we round up the best parks for spotting cherry blossom in London.

Where To Find Cherry Blossom In London

Kew Gardens

London’s largest botanical haven is a safe bet for cherry blossom spotting. The magnolia trees are already beginning to bloom, and you can see them on the dedicated Cherry Walk, found behind the Palm House. Then, head through to Asano Avenue to see an array of varieties, including the pink blossoms of Prunus ‘Hokusai’. kew.org

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Battersea Park

Head south of the river for a stroll along Cherry Tree Avenue, a picture-perfect path filled with cotton candy trees. Afterwards, grab an al fresco coffee from the Pear Tree Cafe – perfect spring vibes. batterseapark.org

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Greenwich Park

This south London park is home to one of the UK’s best collections of cherry blossoms. Near the cricket pitch you’ll find a path lined with cherry blossom trees, leading to the rose garden at Ranger’s House. It’s no surprise this floral hotspot is all over Instagram. royalparks.org.uk

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Kyoto Garden in Holland Park

With its cascading waterfall and stone lanterns, Kyoto Garden nestled within Holland Park is one of London’s most tranquil corners. And come springtime, it gets even more beautiful, thanks to an influx of – you guessed it – cherry blossoms. rbkc.gov.uk

Ravenscourt Park

A lesser known cherry blossom hotspot is Ravenscourt Park near Hammersmith, which is home to a tunnel of pink trees, which bloom around this time of year. This is a great one to visit with children, as there’s an adventure playground and nature trail to explore. lbhf.gov.uk

Alexandra Palace

A picnic in Ally Pally is always a treat, offering far-reaching views of the capital. But it’s particularly charming come springtime, when you can admire a line of cherry trees leading up to the palace. alexandrapalace.com

Kensington Gardens

Take a trip to west London for a sakura-filled day. Begin with a stroll around the blossom-bedecked streets of Notting Hill before heading to Kensington Gardens, which is steeped in cherry blossom during the spring. Start at Lancaster Gate to be greeted with an abundance of pink and white petals, before walking down to Albert Memorial, where you’ll find lots of cherry trees. royalparks.org.uk

Outernet, Tottenham Court Road

If the heavens open and rain on your cherry blossom parade, there’s another sneaky place to see cherry blossom in London this month – and it’s right in the city centre. Outernet and the National Trust have partnered on a new exhibition showcasing the blushing beauty that is British blossom. With wraparound screens creating the illusion of a shower of petals, ‘Nature’s Confetti’ is a three-minute video that will feature twice an hour in The Now Building at Outernet (just off Tottenham Court Road), accompanied by specially composed music and an interactive element. It’ll span the five stages of blossom: barren, bud, bloom, blossom and play.

Details: ‘Nature’s Confetti’ runs 4–28 April 2024 in The Now Building (Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 8LH).