Published: 22/04/2025 By Loney Miller
We have been lucky enough to get some spring sunshine recently, which means the search for the best hike and trail routes is back on, and luckily, there are hidden gems scattered across south-west London’s leafy corners. In a city known for its sprawl, these local trails offer lovely pockets of calm, greenery and space to move. We’ve compiled a list of some of the nicest routes in and around the SW London area, complete with directions from your local transport stops.Richmond Park
Starting right in the heart of south-west London, Richmond Park is a great spot for both a leisurely stroll and a challenging run. The Park is easily reached from Richmond Station, served by the District Line, Overground, and National Rail. With stunning views over the Thames and the capital, it’s about a 15-minute walk from the station towards the town centre. Bus route 65 takes you near multiple destinations near park entrances, like Kew Gardens and Petersham. While The Royal Parks offers a free minibus service between all Richmond Park entrances.
Specifically, consider the Tamsin trail, the popular and well-maintained trail which stretches 7.3 miles around the edge of Richmond Park. It’ll take around two and a half hours to complete, is delightfully scenic and home to its iconic herd of deers.
Thames Path (Putney to Kew)
The Thames Path is a nice, flat trail that runs along the river and passes through a few beautiful south-west London areas like Mortlake, Kew and Barnes, giving you ample opportunities to pause and enjoy the riverside. Start at Putney Bridge Station (which is on the District Line or National Rail to Putney) and then it’s only a 10-minute walk to the start point, and you will finish at Kew Bridge Station.
There are many buses you can hop on too. The 37, 85 and 93, offer direct routes from other south-west areas, like Wimbledon, Clapham and Ealing.
Wimbledon Common
Wimbledon Common offers a perfect retreat, and around a 15-to-30-minute walk from Southfields, Wimbledon and Putney Stations. It feels further away from the hustle and bustle of the city providing an ideal haven for those who want to enjoy a tranquil nature walk or run through a serene environment.
The Circular route is the most popular; it's about 2 miles long, takes you around some of the most popular ponds and is accessible through multiple entry points.
Wandle Trail
This is an exciting one, taking you through parts of outer London. The Wandle Trail starts in Wandsworth and follows the River Wandle through several boroughs, including Merton, Croydon, and Sutton, reaching its end near Waddon Ponds.
The Wandle Trail takes you through a mix of peaceful natural settings and urbanised areas, offering views of local industry and vibrant neighbourhoods along the river.
To start the Wandle Trail, you can take a train to Wimbledon Station or Wandsworth Town Station, and use bus routes like 44, 57, or 93 for easy access to different points along the trail.
Bushy Park
Accessible from Teddington Station or Hampton Wick Station, Bushy Park provides an expansive area to explore. The park's Longford River and Heron Pond provide serene spots to rest while enjoying nature. The Woodland Walks and Deer Park offer unique experiences, with herds of deer often roaming freely.
For a longer adventure, the Bushy Park Circular Walk is around 3-miles long, offering paths that wind through meadows, woodland, and along the river, providing a peaceful retreat. There are also bus routes like the 111 and 285 that connect nearby areas directly to the park.
At Loney Miller, we’re passionate about the local joys of south-west London, these trails provide something for everyone. Best of all, you can get to all these beautiful outdoor spaces from any of our properties.