During holidays, weekends, or even just on a free afternoon, there’s nothing better than spending time outdoors. When there’s no work or school, relaxing in a peaceful green space is a simple joy that feels both refreshing and calming. Luckily, there are pretty city parks in the UK that offers plenty of beautiful corners where you can walk, jog, sit quietly under a tree, or simply watch the sunset.
For Filipinos living in or visiting the UK, parks can also feel a little bit like home — a place where you can bring food for a mini-picnic, meet friends for a catch-up, or just enjoy fresh air away from busy streets. Parks are not just about nature; they’re about moments of peace, happiness, and even a little adventure. Do you love scenic gardens, wide open fields, cozy lakes, or beautiful tree-lined paths, there are lot of parks waiting for you.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best city parks in the UK that are perfect for relaxing, taking photos, spending time with loved ones, and making the most out of your free days. Ready to find your next favourite park? Let’s start
👉 Parks highlighted will take you directly to their official websites – click on them for more details.
Location: Westminster, Greater London, England
Type: Public Royal Park
Opening Time/Days: Everyday at 5 AM- 12 AM
One of the most famous and loved green spaces in the world, Hyde Park easily earns its spot among the best city parks in the UK. Covering around 350 acres, it’s a massive, amazing park right in the heart of busy London — perfect for walking, jogging, biking, or simply enjoying beauty of nature. Entry to Hyde Park is completely free, and while there is limited parking nearby (paid parking around the area), it’s very easy to get there by bus or train.
For Filipinos who enjoy bonding with family and friends outdoors, Hyde Park offers so much to do: you can relax by the Serpentine Lake, rent a boat, visit the beautiful Rose Garden, or even have a peaceful picnic under the trees. It’s also a great spot for photos, sunset watching, and sometimes you might even catch free events or performances. Hyde Park’s wide-open spaces, stunning gardens, and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a piece of nature without leaving the city.
Did You Know?
- Hyde Park is one of the royal parks in UK, it was originally owned by King Henry VIII, who used it as a private hunting ground back in 1536. It wasn’t until 1637, during the reign of King Charles I, that it was opened to the public — and since then, it has stayed one of London’s favourite open spaces. Today, it’s not just a park; it’s a piece of history where everyone is welcome to enjoy nature, right in the heart of the city.
- Hyde Park has its own “Speakers’ Corner,” where anyone can freely stand up and talk about anything — politics, religion, even jokes — as long as it’s legal!
- The park was once the site of the Great Exhibition of 1851, an event that showed off inventions and wonders from all over the world.
- Over 4,000 trees, a lake, meadowlands, and rose gardens make Hyde Park feel like a nature escape — even though you’re still in busy London!
- Some parts of Hyde Park connect to Kensington Gardens — it’s so big, you might not even notice you’re in another park!
Location: Westminster, Greater London, England
Type: Public Royal Park
Opening Time/Days: Everyday opens at 6 AM; earliest closing time is 4pm and latest at 830 pm ; updates can be found on their website and or posted on the pedestrian gate.
Right next to Hyde Park – and sometimes even mistaken as part of it – is the beautiful Kensington Gardens, another must-see among the best city parks in the UK. Covering about 265 acres, this park feels a little more peaceful and formal, with beautifully kept gardens, tree-lined paths, and stunning open spaces perfect for a quiet walk or a relaxing afternoon. Just like Hyde Park, entrance is free, and it’s super easy to reach by public transport. Parking is available nearby but limited, so trains or buses are the best option.
Kensington Gardens is perfect for Filipinos who love peaceful, scenic spots where you can take beautiful photos, enjoy nature walks, or simply sit by a fountain with a coffee or merienda. You’ll find lots of lovely sights here, like the famous Albert Memorial, the beautiful Italian Gardens, and of course, Kensington Palace, where members of the royal family still live! Kids (and kids at heart!) will also love the Princess Diana Memorial Playground, complete with a giant pirate ship and lots of fun spaces to explore. So if you’re already enjoying Hyde Park, don’t stop there take a few extra steps and find yourself in the magical beauty of Kensington Gardens!
Did You Know?
- Kensington Gardens used to be part of Hyde Park until it was separated in the early 1700s by Queen Caroline, the wife of King George II.
- The Italian Gardens are over 150 years old and were a gift from Prince Albert to Queen Victoria!
- The Princess Diana Memorial Playground was inspired by Peter Pan and encourages kids to play, explore, and use their imagination.
- Kensington Gardens is also home to the Peter Pan Statue, one of the most famous statues in London, surrounded by little hidden fairy sculptures!
- Although it’s next to Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens closes at sunset, unlike Hyde Park which stays open longer.
Location: London Borough of Tower Hamlets in East London, England
Type : Public Park
Opening Time/Days: Mon – Fri / 8 – 4 PM
Don’t get confused, as there is 30 VICTORIA PARK registered on Google.
Nicknamed “Vicky Park” or “the People’s Park” by Londoners, Victoria Park in East London is a lively, welcoming green space that has been loved by locals since the 1800s. Opened in 1845, it’s one of the oldest and largest public parks in the UK, stretching across 213 acres. Think of large lakes, charming old bridges, historic fountains, weekly markets, and even cute, lovely cafes scattered around — isn’t it wonderful to roam or just walk around?
Entry is free, and there’s good parking and excellent transport access. Filipinos who enjoy an active park with lots happening will love Victoria Park — whether it’s chilling by the lake, joining a fun run, browsing the weekend markets, or simply lazing under the trees. No wonder the park receives an estimated over 9 million visitors each year!
A quick note though — BBQs are not permitted inside the park, so make sure to plan your picnics accordingly.
Victoria Park is proud to hold both Green Flag and Green Heritage awards. Impressively, it has also won the Green Flag People’s Choice Award for 11 consecutive years!
The Green Flag Award is a national and internationally recognized standard that shows the park meets high quality and management criteria — a true testament to how beautifully maintained and loved this space is.
Location: Westminster, Central London
Type : Public Royal Park
Opening Time/Days: Everyday at 5 AM- 12 AM
If you’re after a simpler, quieter green space, Green Park is your best bet. It’s right beside St James’s Park and Buckingham Palace but offers a very different vibe. No lakes, no statues everywhere — just wide-open fields and beautiful old trees, making it a perfect spot to relax, read a book, or have a peaceful picnic.
Entrance is, of course, free, and since it’s so central, you can easily walk from one famous London landmark to another through Green Park. Filipinos who love easy-going chill spots will definitely appreciate the calm atmosphere, especially when thousands of daffodils bloom every spring!
Did You Know?
- It connects directly to Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly.
- It’s known for its spring daffodils — covering the entire park in yellow!
Location: Ilchester Place, W8 6LU
Type : Public Park
Opening Time/Days: 7:30 AM until dusk
If you’re looking for a park that’s peaceful, artsy, and a little bit hidden or if you just want to simply sit and breathe, or maybe just to read your favourite book, Holland Park is your perfect escape. It’s smaller than the other Royal Parks, but it’s often called one of the prettiest spots among the best city parks in the UK. What makes it extra special is the beautiful Kyoto Garden — a Japanese-style garden complete with koi ponds, waterfalls, and beautiful maple trees.
Entrance is free, and while parking nearby can be tricky, public transport makes it easy to reach. Holland Park is perfect for Filipinos who love nature walks, quiet photo sessions, or even romantic afternoon dates. You’ll also find open grassy areas for picnicking, a children’s playground, and even peacocks freely strolling around!
Location: Westminster, Central London
Type : Public Royal Park
Opening Time/Days: Everyday / 5am – 9pm
If you’re not ready to head indoors yet, Regent’s Park is another fantastic stop among the best city parks in the UK — and one of the most elegant too! Measures around 410 acres, it’s one of the largest Royal Parks which beautifully blended with nature, and great activities. You’ll find well-manicured gardens, massive open fields, sports areas, walking trails, and even a clean peaceful boating lake. It’s also where you’ll find the famous ZSL London Zoo, a perfect family day out if you’re in the mood for some animal fun and li’l exploration.
Entrance to the park itself is free, but expect entry fees at the zoo. There’s limited parking nearby, so it’s best to hop on the Tube or bus. For Filipinos who love flowers and relaxing strolls, Queen Mary’s Rose Garden is a must-see — especially in summer, when over 12,000 roses bloom in full colour! (that’s sure a lovely sight for Filipinas out there, don’t miss it girls)
And don’t miss the chance to head up Primrose Hill, located just north of Regent’s Park. It’s a short, scenic climb that rewards you with one of the best skyline views of London — perfect for catching a romantic sunset or a selfie with the city as your backdrop. The vibe here is more peaceful and relaxed, ideal for quiet bonding, reading, or just lying on the grass and doing nothing (the good kind of nothing!). Jogging, sports, photography, or just enjoying peaceful green spaces — Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill make for an unbeatable combo!!
➤ Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow
Location: Park Terrace, Glasgow, United Kingdom
Type : Public Park
Opening Time/Days: Open Daily 24 hours
Over in Glasgow, Kelvingrove Park is a vibrant, artsy green space perfect for a laid-back day outdoors. Spread over 85 acres, it’s right next to the famous Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, making it one of the most cultural picks among the best parks in the UK. Think of a leafy tree-lined paths, riverside walks, bandstands, and even skate parks- isn’t that great?
Entry is free, and the park is very central, so no worries about parking if you’re using public transport. For Filipinos who love a mix of nature, art, and casual hangouts, Kelvingrove Park offers a refreshing break with some Scottish flavour, its actually your serene getaway!!
Did You Know?
- The park opened in 1852, making it one of Glasgow’s oldest public parks.
- The River Kelvin flows through it — giving the park its name!
- It often hosts outdoor concerts, especially during sunny summer days.
➤ Heaton Park, Manchester
Location: Blackley, Manchester, England
Type : Historical Public Park
Opening Time/Days: Daily / From dawn until dusk
If you’re looking for a place that’s bigger, bolder, and packed with activities, this is one of best parks to visit in the UK, this is an ultimate playground — for kids, grown-ups, and everyone in between! Covering over 600 acres, one of the largest municipal parks in Europe, and it absolutely deserves a spot among the best parks in the UK. It’s not just a pretty park — it’s a full day out.
Inside, you’ll find an animal farm (sure perfect for the little ones), a boating lake where you can row your way into relaxation, two golf courses, massive picnic areas, and even a chance to go horseback riding. The beautiful Heaton Hall, a Grade I-listed building, adds a touch of history and grandeur to your visit. A peaceful nature or high-energy adventure, and a bit of history – this park has it all.
Entry to the park is completely free, though some of the attractions, like boat rides or the tram museum, have small fees. Parking is available across several car parks, so it’s easy for families driving in from around Manchester or beyond. For Filipino families or barkadas who love bonding over food, fun, and fresh air, Heaton Park is a fantastic spot to bring your baon (snack), snap some sunny group photos, and make great memories to keep.
Did You Know?
- Heaton Park is so big, it has its own miniature tramway and light railway — you can hop on for a scenic ride!
- It regularly hosts large music festivals and public events, including Parklife Festival, one of the UK’s biggest summer music events.
- The park officially opened to the public in 1902, though Heaton Hall itself dates back to the 18th century.
- It also has a hidden ornamental pond and several woodlands perfect for quiet walks or nature spotting!
- Heaton Hall was once used as a military hospital during World War I, while the park served as a training camp for the Manchester Regiment’s Pals battalions.
- During World War II, it became a Royal Air Force camp, training over 133,000 aircrew for service.
Location: Edgbaston, Birmingham
Type : Public City Park
Opening Time/Days: Daily / 7:30am – dusk
If you’re in Birmingham and in the mood for fresh air, wide green lawns, and loads of fun, Cannon Hill Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle of the city. Measuring around 250 acres, this charming park is a proud recipient of the Green Flag Award, meaning it’s one of the best parks in the UK when it comes to cleanliness, safety, sustainability, and community involvement.
There’s truly something for everyone: scenic lakeside walks, botanical gardens, tennis courts, mini golf, and even a chance to go boating when the sun is out. The open grassy areas are ideal for a classic Filipino-style picnic or larong Pinoy games – with the barkada or family. And for those who want something a little artsy, the Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) inside the park offers galleries, shows, and relaxing cafés.
One of the most exciting attractions is the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park! From reptiles and birds to furry favourites like monkeys and red pandas, there are new friends to meet everywhere you turn. You can even catch up with the keepers at feeding times to find out more about some of the animals — and see them have their lunch! Pre-booking is recommended.
Access to Cannon Hill Park is free, with affordable tickets to the wildlife park and other optional activities. There are ample parking available and great public transport connections. For Filipinos in the Midlands, this is an excellent spot to unwind, enjoy nature, and maybe even see a red panda up close!
➤ Sefton Park, Liverpool
Location: South Liverpool
Type : Public Park
Opening Time/Days: Daily / 24 hours
Sefton Park is a beautiful blend of elegance, history, and lush green space — and it rightfully earns its place as one of Liverpool’s most iconic landmarks and among the Best Parks in the UK
The park is a beautiful blend of nature with wide open meadows, shaded woodland paths, charming bridges, and peaceful lakes. At its heart lies the Sefton Park Palm House — a breathtaking Victorian glass dome filled with exotic plants and often used as a venue for music, cultural events, and even weddings!
You’ll also find waterfalls, grottos, sculptures, and plenty of perfect picnic spots. It’s completely free to enter, and there’s good parking and public transport access, Sefton Park offers something for everyone.
General Rules in UK City Parks: What You Need to Know
When visiting city parks in the UK — whether it’s a quiet town green or a large city space like Hyde Park or Sefton Park — it’s good to know a few common rules that help keep these places safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone:
- Dog Rules
Dogs are generally welcome in most UK parks, but…
Leads are usually required in certain areas, especially:
- Around children’s playgrounds
- Inside formal gardens
- Near cafes or picnic areas
Many parks have clearly marked zones where dogs can be off-lead, usually large open fields or woodland paths.
Always clean up after your dog — bins are provided throughout the park.
- Restricted Areas
Children’s play areas are strictly no dogs allowed — even on a lead.
Dogs are not allowed inside park cafés or visitor centres, unless it’s a service dog.
Certain parks may also restrict access to sports pitches, water features, or wildlife conservation areas.
- Picnics and Food
Picnics are welcome, but barbecues are usually not allowed unless there are designated BBQ zones.
Take your rubbish with you or use the bins provided — most parks operate a “leave no trace” policy.
- Cycling, Scooters, and Skating
Some parks allow cycling or scooters, but only on marked paths.
Skating or skateboarding is often limited to specific zones or skate parks.
Be mindful of walkers, children, and wildlife.
- Noise and Events
Portable speakers and loud music are discouraged unless you’re in a private hire event area.
You may need permission from the council to host large gatherings, parties, or performances.
- Opening Times
Most city parks are open daily, often from dawn until dusk (check local signs).
Some gates may be locked at night for safety.
These rules are generally signposted in every park, so it’s always good to check near the entrances or visit the park’s website for specific information.
Following these basic guidelines means you help keep beautiful city parks in the UK a friendly, safe, and welcoming for everyone!
Peaceful walk, a fun day out with family, or just a quiet moment under the trees, these best parks in the UK offer the perfect escape from our busy city life. These green spaces are more than just pretty views — they’re places to relax, reconnect with nature, and create memories with loved ones.
For Filipinos in the UK, these parks offer a touch of home and community — where you can enjoy the sunshine (when it shows!), share a picnic, or simply unwind surrounded by beauty and calm. So next time you have a free weekend or a sunny afternoon, grab your trainers, bring some snacks, and discover a park near you — your next favourite spot might be just around the corner!
So, whether you’re enjoying a peaceful stroll or a lively day out in one of the UK’s best parks, remember that staying connected to your roots is just as important as exploring your new home. At Mabuhay Travel, we’re here to guide you in finding the cheapest flights to the Philippines, making it easier for you to visit loved ones, celebrate traditions, and keep the spirit of home alive — no matter where you are.
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