With more than 3,000 parks and open spacesLondon is one of the world’s greenest cities – and that means this marvellous city has one for every occasion. And we reallyreally mean that. Whether you’re looking for a pristine picnic patcha scruffy footie fielda serene sunbathing spot or an all-action sports park, London has it covered. 

Like a lot of people who have spent their twenties in this cityI’ve bounced between countless flat shares in various different neighbourhoods over my eleven years hereand it’s really made me realise two things; firstlythat wherever you are in Londonyou’re never that far from some gorgeous greenery.

And secondlythere are few greater pleasures to be had in this city than clocking off work and making a beeline for your favourite park on the first properly hot day of the summerarmed with a footballa novelor just a couple of ice cold tinnies and some picky bits from the nearest offy.

Blissright? Here’s our lowdown on the major parks in Londonso you can plan your next session in the sun.

RECOMMENDED: the full guide to outdoor Londonincluding amazing local parks and secluded secret gardens