18 May 2022

With the sun starting to peek through the clouds, we’ve got picnics and days spent in the park on our mind.

Notting Hill Genesis is here to help you find the best green spots to enjoy the sunshine as Spring arrives – including some hidden gems you may not have visited before.

North London

Heron Quarter at Woodberry Down in the London Borough of Hackney is a tranquil oasis centered around nature, a stone’s throw from serene parkland, reservoirs and courtyards.

A short stroll from the development is Woodberry Wetlands, a haven for those looking to get up close to wildlife. The 27-acre nature reserve is home to some of London’s priority species, including kingfishers, warblers and water vole. The site is free and accessible for everyone to visit.

Elsewhere, the Walthamstow Wetlands by Coachmakers Yard offers the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors and local wildlife in the city.

South London

South of the river, Kidbrooke Square is one of Notting Hill Genesis’ greenest developments, with Cator Park on the doorstep, and Greenwich Park and Charlton Park are both less than a fifteen-minute cycle away. Greenwich Park in particular offers expansive views of London – why not enjoy a picnic with a view?

Nearby, the atmospheric green space at the heart of Blackheath Village marks the spot where thousands of runners from all over the world gather for the start of the London marathon. It’s a must-see spot to show visiting friends and family.

Peckham Rye Park and Common is a 10-minute cycle from our Peckham Place development, and spans 113-acres of open grassland and features unique vistas of the ornamental Japanese and water gardens. Plans were recently confirmed for the GALA 2022 music festival to be hosted at the park during the Queen’s Jubilee weekend. Tickets are available now!

East London

Notting Hill Genesis’ newest launched Shared Ownership homes at Gallions Place, situated in the historic Royal Docks, are perfectly located to enjoy outdoor space by the river.

A quick stroll down the Thames path takes you to atmospheric riverside park, Thames Barrier Park, which won its third consecutive Green Flag Award in 2020. The wildflower meadows offer the perfect backdrop while looking out across the metallic architecture of the Thames barrier.

Our Woolwich Reach development also enjoys the views of the green spaces of neighbouring Royal Victoria Gardens – a luscious space with tree-lined paths, play areas for children and expansive area to meet with friends for a picnic.

Looking for something a bit different? The Sky Garden at the top of the Walkie Talkie building combines unique views of the London skyline with a lush backdrop of greenery. Just hop on the DLR from Goodluck Hope, and you’ll be there in less than 30 minutes. It’s well worth a visit as its free to enter, but we recommend booking in advance so you aren’t disappointed!

West London

West London is famous for its abundance of iconic green spaces, and Notting Hill Genesis’ Oaklands Rise development is perfectly located for a breath of fresh air. Oaklands Rise itself features a breadth of outside space, private roof terraces and a green streetscape perfect for a stroll or to socialise with friends and family.

Notting Hill Genesis’ Lampton Parkside is also coming soon in Hounslow, where residents will have access to the 40-acre Lampton Park right on their doorstep. The park has playing fields, six tennis courts and a bowling green which hosts open sessions.

Both developments also benefit from close proximity to the iconic Kew Gardens. Watch the buds burst into life across 500-acres of woodland, and take a trip into the three greenhouses which are full to the brim with unique plants from across the world.

With the winter now firmly behind us, we hope these suggestions help you be full of the joys of spring, and find the right home for you near to the lovely gardens and parks we have on our doorstep here in London.

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