One of the true delights of Spring has to be when London’s blossoms begin to bloom. This city transforms into a floral paradise from the pink Magnolia and Cherry Blossom that were the feature earlier this month to the purple cascades of Wisteria that are in full bloom right now. Of course, it’s not always easy to know where to find the spots so I’ve compiled a collection of my personal favourites, with directions on how to get there and what you can pair it with for a whole day out.
Whether you’re looking to go on a floral walk or use it as a backdrop for a summery picnic in the park, there are plenty of ways you can enjoy London’s Blossoms!
Carry on reading to find out more…
London’s Blossoms: Wisteria
1. Notting Hill
Notting Hill is one of the best places to see Wisteria and an ideal place for a Springtime walk. By mid May you’ll find lots of the houses completely draped in purple cascading wisteria – from Bedford Gardens and Stanley Gardens to Lansdowne Crescent and Campden Hill Road. Thankfully all these locations are right by each other so just hop on the tube and get off at Notting Hill Gate and you’ll be good to go!
2. Kynance Mews
Kynance Mews is another beautiful place to visit – no matter which season! In the Autumn you can see the iconic red ivy leaves draped over the archway and in the Spring you get to see these beautiful, picturesque Wisteria blooms against the cobbled streets. To get here, pop on the tube and get off at Gloucester Road or South Kensington tube station. (Just be mindful that these are people’s houses!)
3. Kensington
Kynance Mews is definitely one of the prettiest places to see Wisteria in Kensington but there’s plenty more to explore if you’re in the area. Abingdon Road is often a prime location for Wisteria as well as Gordon Place and Canning Place!
4. South Kensington
There are many gorgeous places to see Wisteria in South Kensington but my two favourites have to be Sumner Place and Elm Place. The cascades of Wisteria are so charming set around the brick houses and white facades. To get here simply take the tube and get off at South Kensington Station. Then follow the main road down until you get to Sumner Place Road and Cranley Gardens.
5. Cheyne Walk
This season, Cheyne Walk has been one of my all time favourite locations for Wisteria. Situated by the Albert Bridge and Battersea Park it’s a perfect day out paired with a picnic at the Park. Take the time to walk around Battersea Park before heading towards the river, crossing the iconic Albert Bridge before heading to Cheyne Walk (which is the street of houses parallel to the river (hidden behind the hedge).
6. St. John’s Wood
St. John’s Wood is one of the lesser known Wisteria locations but certainly not one to miss. Situated next to another of London’s prettiest areas it’s the perfect pairing with a trip to Camden Town, Primrose Hill (which has one of the best views of London’s Skyline’s) and, of course, Regent’s Park’s beautiful Cherry Blossoms.
7. Peckham Rye Park
Peckham Rye Park has been on my list of Parks to visit for so long! During Wisteria Season it completely transforms with the appearance of this purple Wisteria Archway. It really is a sight to behold! It’s a bit further out than the other locations – being closer to Southwark than anywhere else but why not make a day of it. Whilst there you could always take a trip to Borough Market (for a list of the best restaurants click here), visit Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, The Shard or The Tate Modern!
For my full list of Wisteria locations click here! (There are plenty more to choose from!)
London’s Cherry Blossoms:
1. Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park has to be the queen of all parks when it comes to London’s blossoms. The pathway turns into an impressive Cherry Blossom archway – one which transports you to Japan in minutes. Of course, this has led to it being a very busy location so don’t expect to see it empty like this unless you arrive before 6am! To find this particular shot, follow Blackheath Avenue until you arrive at a perpendicular footpath on the right (that leads towards Rangers House and the Rose Garden). Take this path and carry on and you’ll find a row of cherry blossoms learning into each other, creating a sort of cherry blossom tunnel!
2. Regent’s Park
Regent’s Park is another incredibly popular spot in the Spring – not just for the gorgeous Cherry Blossoms but generally to escape the busy city atmosphere in favour of a (still rather busy) spot of green! Of all the parks in London this one has to be one of the most idyllic and beautiful. From the beautiful Cherry Blossom entwined bridge to the fountained Queen Mary Gardens, you feel like you’re in a set from Bridgerton! The best time to visit Regent’s Park is in late April when London’s blossoms really take hold.
3. Ravenscourt Park
A bit further out than some of the other locations, Ravenscourt Park is situated by Hammersmith, in West London and is a real must when it comes to Cherry Blossom hunting! The trees create the fluffiest Cherry Blossoms and when the wind picks up it literally rains petals! Aside from the Cherry Blossoms, Ravenscourt Park boasts a gorgeous open space with a lake, walled garden, bowling green and even a Tennis Court. So bring a picnic blanket and packed lunch and enjoy a day of outdoor loving!
4. Mount Street Gardens
If you’re looking for a quiet spot away from the ravenous Cherry Blossom seekers, I’ve got the spot for you. This one really is a hidden secret, tucked away in the hidden cove in Mayfair (just to the right of Hyde Park) and boasts one of London’s biggest Cherry Blossom trees! It’s always very quiet with only 2-3 people there and the perfect spot to relax and read a book. If you’re travelling by tube get off at Green Park or Bond Street and head towards Farm Street Church (just south of Grosvenor Square).
5. St. Paul’s
St. Paul’s Cathedral is the icon among icons when it comes to London’s tourist spots and is well worth a visit anytime of year. During the Spring however it’s extra special with all the beautiful blossoms that take hold. These ones tend to blossom a little earlier in the month than the other Cherry Blossom locations so make sure to visit this one first!
6. Battersea Park
I must admit, before the Cherry Blossom season came out, I’d never actually visited Battersea Park which is a real shame! It’s a gorgeous Victorian Park situated beside the Albert Bridge, opposite Chelsea and is one of the most interesting parks in London. Not only does it have a spectacular array of Cherry Blossom trees, but it also houses 9 unique gardens – from Rose Gardens, Cammellias and Chrysanthemums to their Sub Tropical, Winter or Old English Gardens. Did I mention it also had a zoo? A day out to remember, why not pack a picnic, stroll through the cherry blossoms and finish the day with a sunset walk over the river? I mean what more could you want!
6. Notting Hill (Stanley Crescent)
Last, but by no means least, we have Notting Hill and its famous Stanley Crescent spot. Once upon a time this location was a quiet and serene place to hang out with friends. No more! This spot spread like wildfire among the London bloggers and now generates the same crowds as many of the bigger parks and I can’t say I’m surprised. The pairing of the delicate pink Cherry Blossoms with the classic Notting Hill white facades makes for a gorgeous photo spot.
London’s Magnolia:
1. The Bolton’s
You might remember me mentioning The Boltons back at Christmas time when they housed the rather impressive 6ft red bow. Well, we’re back again – but this time to see the floral bananza they have in store for us. This small, serene little close has some of the prettiest magnolia trees in the area which stand out in striking beauty against the iconic white facades of the big London townhouses. It’s a fantastic way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and to explore London in true Londoner fashion (just without the massive price tag!).
2. Notting Hill
As well as being a stunning Wisteria and Cherry Blossom location, Notting Hill blooms boasts an impressive set of magnolia trees. Portobello Road is a hot favourite when it comes to Magnolia, as well as Holland Park, Bayswater and Lancaster Road. Against the pastel coloured houses, the blooms look spectacular!
3. Gloucester Road
Like Notting Hill, South Kensington is a classic when it comes to London’s blossoms hunting and there are plenty of magnolia trees to be found wherever you go in Kensington. However, my personal favourite has to be this spot on Gloucester Road. It’s such a quaint location with all of the beautiful pastel doors and rather less intimidating than some of the huge white gated houses you see in Kensington.
4. Lancaster Gate/Sussex Gardens
I stumbled across this location rather accidentally when walking to Notting Hill and couldn’t resist taking a photo. Although it’s not the kind of place you could stop and have a picnic, I’ve included it in my list because it ended up being one of the most impressive magnolias I’ve seen all season. It’s a perfect first stop on a magnolia walk starting from Paddington as you head into Kensington Gardens into Kensington or Notting Hill.
5. Gunnersbury Park:
Saving the best ’til last, Gunnersbury Park in Hounslow makes it to the top of my list. It’s a gorgeous place to see the flowing magnolias within the serene corners of London’s green oasis. Not only can you admire the view from your picnic spot, but you can turn a “day in the park” to a glamorous outing within minutes by visiting their ornate gardens, spectacular fountain and elegant Park House.
