4 Lovely Walks with Fantastic Pubs at the End
Given the hustle and bustle of day-to-day city life, you might be surprised to learn that there are actually some rather wonderful walking routes in London. Guided walking tours around London’s centre can only take you so far, literally! Instead, fill your lungs with real London life and embark on one of these brilliant walks that will lead you to a lovely London pub.
1) Walk through Primrose Hill…
Primrose Hill is located in North London, less than ten minutes walk from Camden Town tube station. Primrose Hill is a wonderful green space in the heart of North London, however its biggest appeal is the breath-taking views of the city. As one of the six protected viewpoints in London, Primrose Hill boasts one of the most impressive views of the London skyline stretching all the way to Canary Wharf.
… Then have a drink at Proud Camden
Anyone visiting London should definitely take some time to explore Camden Town’s market. When you’ve finished your walk on Primrose Hill, meander through Camden Stable Market toward Proud Camden. This vibrant North London bar is set inside a former horse stable and has a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The delightful outdoor seating area is situated above the market offering great views and great beers.
2) Highgate Cemetery
Looking once more for walks in North London, Highgate Cemetery is a short way from Archway tube station. Although it may seem a little macabre, the cemetery is one of London’s hidden gems with its impressive funerary architecture, attractive overgrown vines and centuries old tombs. Founded in 1839 and with 37 acres to walk through, Highgate Cemetery is a peaceful and absorbing walking route for anyone visiting London.
… Then have a drink at The Flask
The Flask Highgate is a charming 17th Century pub, complete with a roaring open fireplace for you to warm up after your walk. With flowers overflowing in hanging baskets, classic wooden tables and delightful snugs The Flask has everything you would expect from a 17th Century pub, including two resident ghosts! Local legend tells of two ghosts that haunt The Flask, making it well worth a visit for any thrill seekers. Bar tenders confirm that ‘a Spanish barmaid haunts the seating area and a man in Cavalier uniform occasionally crosses through the bar.’ Spooky.
3) Walk through Epping Forest
Venture east and you will find Epping Forest, London’s largest green space. The forest spreads across the borders of London and Essex and has an abundance of trees, rivers and cute little bridges to explore. With approximately 1700 acres and various foot paths and walking routes, Epping Forest is the perfect place to start your East London adventure.
… Then have a drink in The Cuckfield
Epping Forest is accessible from many East London tube stations and so finding just one pub to try can prove difficult. We recommend The Cuckfield, a stone’s throw from Snaresbrook tube station. The Cuckfield is a 19th Century Inn steeped in character. Think exposed-brick interiors, a wonderful beer garden and top-notch pub food making The Cuckfield the most endearing post-walk stop.
4) Walk to the Wimbledon Windmill
The Wimbledon Windmill is a 200 year old windmill accompanied by a whimsical museum located on Wimbledon Common in South London. You’ll find Wimbledon Common right next to Richmond Park, the largest of London’s eight Royal Parks giving you plenty of walking route options. Wander leisurely through Richmond Park towards the Wimbledon Windmill, a delight for children in particular. Interestingly, the windmill nearly closed to the public forever in 1864 when Lord of the Manor, the Earl of Spencer, announced his intention of closing Wimbledon Common to build his own manor house. Thankfully, he was unsuccessful in this endeavour and the windmill has been a favourite South London walking destination for many generations.
… Then have a drink in The Dog and Fox
The Dog and Fox is a pub, hotel and dining room located just next to Wimbledon Common. Browse the pub’s extensive wine list as you order a classic yet sophisticated pub meal and relax in the super-chic open plan restaurant.
So four wonderful walks with four wonderful London pubs at its conclusion as just reward for your efforts. Despite the abundance of urbanisation London has a vast amount of green space where you can stretch your legs and discover new things and best of all a beer at journey's end