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Top 5 Calm Places in London for a Moment of Reflection

And...breathe. It’s always nice to be able to find a moments peace within the busyness of London… read on to discover our selected havens within the hectic…

A lush indoor garden with tall tropical plants and vines growing on multiple levels of a concrete structure. Glass ceiling panels allow natural light to flood the space. The area is well-maintained, creating a tranquil and green environment.
Image © Max Colson

London can be very chaotic city. Your senses can be overloaded with all that’s going on around you, and sometimes a moments peace and quiet is all you need to recharge and re-enter London life. Whether that be through a short walk in the park on a Sunday morning or a relaxing cup of hot chocolate after a long day at work, these places will provide the space for an exhausted Londoner to slow down for a moment. 

Barbican Conservatory

A lush indoor greenhouse with tall trees, various plants, and greenery. The space has a glass roof, allowing sunlight to pour in. A brick pathway runs along the right side, bordered by railings and more plants. The atmosphere is serene and vibrant.
Image © Max Colson

Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS 

First up on our list is the Barbican Conservatory. You can lose yourself in the hidden tropical oasis within London’s concrete jungle. It’s the second biggest conservatory in London after Kew Gardens and was originally designed to hide the building’s flytower. The conservatory houses over 2000 species of plants from banana plants to palm trees, cacti and many more. It’s the perfect place to soothe the senses and get lost in natures wonder, and the best part: admission is free (you just need to book in advance).

Pavilion Cafe, Victoria Park

A dome-shaped building with the large word CAFE prominently displayed on its side. The structure is illuminated against a dusk or early evening sky, with surrounding trees casting shadows and lights from the interior spilling out through the entrance.
Image © pavilionbakery.com

Victoria Park, Old Ford Road, London, E9 7DA 

Located near the West Boating Lake in Victoria Park, Pavilion Cafe is a great place to sit outside and enjoy a cup of coffee while watching the ducks splash around in the lake. With its warm and friendly atmosphere, this small cafe gives you the break you need after a long walk in the park. The deck area extending into the lake also has the best view of the scenery whether you want to stare off into the distance in silence or take photographs of the lakeside. Breakfast and lunch are also available at the cafe for those who like food as company while enjoying the view. 

The care is open every day between 8am-3pm. 

Hampstead Heath

A serene winter scene with a partially frozen lake surrounded by snow-covered trees. Several small docks extend into the water, and a few birds are seen near the shoreline. The sky is clear, adding to the tranquility of the setting.
Image © Matt Watchlooksee

Hampstead Heath, Hampstead, NW3 1BP 

A massive park located in Northwest London, Hampstead Heath is the ideal green escape for those looking to clear their head while wandering aimlessly amid picturesque woodlands. Impossible to leave once entered, the park is home to many bathing ponds and Kenwood House, a breath-taking building with impressive artworks on display inside. So, why not treat yourself to a long walk and a cultural interlude on the weekend as you find answers to life's big questions? The most relaxing feature of the park is the atmosphere of tranquillity; feeling as if you are out of London and in the countryside. Grab your journal, sketchpad or book of poetry and enjoy a shady spot under a tree or put on you hiking shoes to go off trails into the greenery. Make sure to find your way back though! 

Syon Park

This image shows an ornate greenhouse with a large glass dome at the center and an extended wing with arched windows. In the foreground, there's a decorative stone vase with plants and flowers. The sky is mostly clear with a few scattered clouds.
Image © Facebook via Syon Park - House and Gardens

TW7 6AZ 

Known as the London home of the Duke of Northumberland, Syon Park gives you a deep sense of the countryside without ever having to leave London. You can take a stroll along the gardens or explore the houses many rooms. Described as having Neo-Classic splendour, you can soak in the wonderful artwork and antiques that adorn the halls and each room. The gardens boast a beautiful conservatory, an arboretum, grassy meadows and most importantly, a peaceful atmosphere.  

Tickets start from £6.50 . 

Russell Square

Sunlit park in winter with leafless trees and a pathway beneath a bare metal arch. In the background, there are benches, scattered small buildings, and a clear blue sky. A dog can be seen on the grass to the left.
Image © Instagram via @_northseagirl

Russell Square, WC1B 5BE 

Right next to the Senate House Library and the British Museum, Russell Square offers a secluded getaway in the heart of the city for a short stroll. Broken off from the traffic and masses of tourists that visit the area every day, the park provides a space for people of all interests to escape from their routine and enjoy a moment for themselves. When the weather is warm and sunny, bring along your yoga mat or book, otherwise drop in for a quick breath of fresh air to gather your thoughts during your lunch break. Keep an eye out for the squirrels that are extremely adorable to watch.