Winter walks: The 10 most beautiful London 'villages' you need to visit this winter

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These pretty parks and villages are some of the most beautiful places to go for a walk in London

Over the years London has become far more of a ‘walking city’.

Instead of taking the underground many Londoners prefer to take a quick jaunt from A to B.

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But walking isn’t limited to your morning commute. London has several charming areas that feel like quaint villages, perfect for exploring during the chilly winter months.

They have cosy pubs, and pretty pathways and are great for a stroll with a friend and a hot coffee.

Here are some of the prettiest ‘villages’ in London to visit during winter:

1. Hampstead

Two women walk through the snow on Hampstead HeathTwo women walk through the snow on Hampstead Heath
Two women walk through the snow on Hampstead Heath | Getty Images

Why Visit in Winter? Hampstead’s cobbled streets, Georgian houses, and old-world charm become even more magical in winter. Enjoy scenic walks on Hampstead Heath, with stunning views over London, or explore cosy pubs like The Holly Bush.

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Don’t miss: The Heath in frosty weather, Keats House, and the independent boutiques on Flask Walk.

2. Richmond

Winter is the perfect time to spot the deer at Richmond ParkWinter is the perfect time to spot the deer at Richmond Park
Winter is the perfect time to spot the deer at Richmond Park | Getty Images

Why Visit in Winter? Richmond offers a riverside village feel with its picturesque Thames views, wintery Richmond Park (spot deer!), and quaint streets lined with boutique shops and cafes.

Don’t miss: Richmond Park’s frosty landscapes, the cosy pubs along the Thames, and Petersham Nurseries for a winter wonderland vibe.

3. Greenwich

Greenwich Park is a lovely place for a winter walkGreenwich Park is a lovely place for a winter walk
Greenwich Park is a lovely place for a winter walk | Getty Images

Why Visit in Winter? This historic village is stunning with its maritime charm, old pubs, and the covered Greenwich Market, perfect for winter shopping.

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Don’t miss: The Royal Observatory, the Cutty Sark, and a walk along the Thames with mulled wine in hand.

4. Highgate

People walk through a snowy Highgate village in LondonPeople walk through a snowy Highgate village in London
People walk through a snowy Highgate village in London | Getty Images

Why Visit in Winter? Highgate feels like stepping back in time with its historic architecture, winding lanes, and the eerie beauty of Highgate Cemetery.

Don’t miss: A wintery walk through Waterlow Park, visiting Highgate Cemetery, and warming up at the historic Flask pub.

5. Dulwich Village

A mallard lands on a frozen pond in Dulwich ParkA mallard lands on a frozen pond in Dulwich Park
A mallard lands on a frozen pond in Dulwich Park | Getty Images

Why Visit in Winter? Dulwich exudes charm with its pretty streets, the serene Dulwich Park, and the renowned Dulwich Picture Gallery.

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Don’t Miss: Explore the Picture Gallery, take a frosty walk through the park, and stop by the village cafes.

6. Primrose Hill

A jogger makes their way through a foggy Primrose HillA jogger makes their way through a foggy Primrose Hill
A jogger makes their way through a foggy Primrose Hill | Getty Images

Why Visit in Winter? Nestled by Regent’s Park, Primrose Hill offers a village-like feel with pastel-coloured houses and stunning city views.

Don’t miss: A snowy walk up the hill for panoramic London views, followed by a hot drink in one of the chic cafes.

7. Kew

A family goes for a festive walk through Christmas at KewA family goes for a festive walk through Christmas at Kew
A family goes for a festive walk through Christmas at Kew | Getty Images

Why Visit in Winter? Famous for the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew turns into a sparkling winter wonderland, especially during their annual light trails.

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Don’t miss: Kew Gardens’ Christmas lights, a visit to the iconic Palm House, and exploring Kew Village’s quaint shops.

8. Barnes

Barnes, LondonBarnes, London
Barnes, London | Stefan Czapski

Why Visit in Winter? With its riverside charm, Barnes feels like a peaceful retreat. Its duck pond, village green, and indie shops are idyllic in winter.

Don’t miss: Stroll along the Thames Path, visit Barnes Wetland Centre, and stop at a local bakery.

9. Chiswick

Chiswick House is a lovely place to visit during the winterChiswick House is a lovely place to visit during the winter
Chiswick House is a lovely place to visit during the winter | Getty Images

Why Visit in Winter? Chiswick has a relaxed, upscale village feel with tree-lined streets, charming cafes, and wintery riverside walks.

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Don’t miss: Walk along the Thames, visit Chiswick House and Gardens, and shop at Turnham Green Terrace.

10. Blackheath

People watch fireworks on Blackheath CommonPeople watch fireworks on Blackheath Common
People watch fireworks on Blackheath Common | Getty Images

Why Visit in Winter? This serene spot near Greenwich has a large common that’s perfect for frosty walks and a cosy village centre with pubs and cafes.

Don’t miss: Wander across the heath, visit All Saints Church, and enjoy a hearty meal in a traditional pub.

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