We’ve rounded up some fantastic locations to visit if you’re ever looking for some peace and quiet in south east London.
It’s hard to find the time to relax, we get it.
Living in London means listening to the frequent sound of beeping cars and emergency sirens, finding traffic around every corner, and smelling the unbearable odours of sewers and fast food restaurants - gross.
But there is also plenty of hidden gems that are great for relaxing, full of beauty and peace – even in the heart of south east London.
Taking some time to relax can aid positive thinking, decision making and overall anxieties – helping you improve your day-to-day activities.
Whether you’ve just finished a nine hour shift in retail, taking a break from Microsoft Teams or just fancy some quiet time, why not explore the natures of south east London, and indulge in the tranquil surroundings.
We’ve conjured up some great locations bursting with serenity and nature – perfect hotspots for you to escape reality, just for a little while.
Crystal Palace Concert Bowl
Location: Crystal Palace Park Road, SE19 2BA
During the late 1900’s, this location was a renowned venue for music concerts.
Music legends such as Pink Floyd, Elton John, Eric Clapton and the king of reggae, Bob Marley, performed at the Crystal Palace Concert Bowl.
Over the last decade, the bowl has been inactive, however communities have been campaigning for the venue to transform into a multi-use events space that aims to host live music once again.
The grounds are currently used as a great escape for members of the public with stunning greenery and modern architect.
Desmond Tutu Peace Garden, Grove Park
Location: Chinbrook Road, Grove Park SE12
The Desmond Tutu Peace Garden was opened in 2009 and inspired by the Archbishop and humans right activist, Desmand Tutu.
Tutu lived nearby the gardens, at Chinbrook Road during 1972-1975.
The landscape garden is full of tranquillity, created by award-winning garden designer, Chris Bearshaw.
The garden features a peace pole carved with four languages and wild flowers scattered throughout the grounds.
The Point, Greenwich
Location: Point Hill, Greenwich SE10
The point is a hotspot for many Londoners, as one of the best views of London can be enjoyed for free.
On the horizon, members of the public can enjoy the view of the London skyline, including spotting monuments such as the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral and the O2 arena.
Londoners seem to use The Point as a place to unwind, as it includes a parkland with plenty of space and many benches for quiet reflection.
Manor House Gardens
Location: Taunton Rd, London SE13 5SU
Manor House Gardens is a public park in Lee that was restored in 2000.
The park features a grand lake, water fountain, open dog-walking areas, a walled flower garden, café, children’s playground, and an ice-house thought to date from 1773.
Manor House Gardens is a peaceful region that is perfect for all – and is a stunning place to visit all year round.
The Green Chain Walk
Running through several of parks and opens spaces as part of a whopping 40 mile network of signposted paths, the Green Chain is not to be missed if you love fine landscapes.
The chain begins at three points along the Thames, climbing up from the river through Lesnes Abbey and Woolwich Common.
There are different routes for different explorers – such as section 10 of the route takes you from Beckenham Place Park to Crystal Palace via Cator Park (3.9 miles).
The walk offers some great views in south London, including Sydenham Wells Park, One Tree Hill and many more.
Find out more about the chain walk here
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here