Summer is finally in full swing and we are loving every minute of it – that is, aside from the sweltering heat. While we all love soaking up the sun when we’re on holiday, when you’re stuck in the middle of the city, the heat can become nothing short of suffocating. 

If you’re fed up with sweating it out in London, you might be looking for some respite from the concrete and the crowds. Luckily, London has a lot of greenery to offer – if you know where to look. Here are some of our favourite green hidden spots to hide away from the hustle and bustle in the summer.

Postman’s Park is situated in the heart of the City, just to the north of St. Paul’s Cathedral. With soft green spots where you can sit and enjoy the sun and a flower-lined walkway, this little park is a lovely place for sneaking away from the busy City. The park features over 50 plaques dedicated to London’s “ordinary people”.

The park is open from 8am–7pm every day.

Find out more about Postman’s Park.

This lovely community garden is tucked away right near Covent Garden, making it the perfect hideaway when you’re in central London for the day. Built on an old second world war bombsite, you’ll find a range of unique plants growing in this inner-city jungle. This charming garden is also available for weddings and parties. 

Find out more about The Phoenix Garden.

If you’re ever near Temple Station, you can take a break from the tourist-filled streets by ducking into the Inner Temple Gardens. 

The secluded garden is open to the public from 12.30–3pm on weekdays, making it perfect for a quiet lunch break. Access the hidden spot through the Inner Temple.

Find out more about the Inner Temple Gardens.

The Southbank is a prime destination for tourists thanks to its views of the Thames and its many sights (the National Theatre, the BFI and the Southbank Centre to name a few). 

If you’re craving some peace and quiet and greenery, head to the roof of the Royal Festival Hall. Here, you’ll find a secret rooftop garden. Not only does it boast stunning views of the city, but it’s also a gorgeous little spot to unwind.

Find out more about the Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden.

Culpeper Community Garden is a beautiful little spot in Islington where you can disappear from the busy streets of north London and explore a natural oasis. With high walls keeping the garden closed off from the world outside, you might even forget you’re in the city. 

Find out more about Culpeper Community Garden.

This hideaway is a real magical spot hiding in plain sight. Created in 2010 to bring some greenery to east London, the garden has plenty of flowers and secluded spots to sit in and unwind, as well as a buzzing community cafe.

The garden is currently open in the afternoons. 

Find out more about Dalston Curve Garden.

West Londoners, look no further. Many people don’t realise that the stunning botanic gardens at Fulham Palace are free to visit, including the secluded 3.5-acre walled garden, which is open to visitors in the summer months. With 13 acres of bright flowers, beautiful landscaping, and green as far as the eye can see, this garden promises to give you the respite you’ve been looking for. 

Find out more about Fulham Palace Gardens.

In London, you don’t always have to venture outside to find a little greenery. In the Barbican Centre, you’ll find a giant conservatory on level three, with the trees and plants growing straight out of the concrete structure. The Conservatory is also home to seasonal art exhibits and, though it’s free to visit, you do need to book in advance to save yourself a space.

Find out more about the Barbican Conservatory.

Vauxhall is another part of London that can feel a little overwhelming thanks to its busy bus and train station. But at Vauxhall Park, you’ll find a nice little green oasis away from it all. Be sure to stop by the gorgeous lavender garden for a dose of serenity.

Find out more about Vauxhall Park.

In east London, the luscious Hoxton Community Garden is the ideal spot to escape and relax. With shady pergolas, blossoming fruit trees and wild and blooming gardens, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped out of the dusty streets into a fairytale.

Find out more about the Hoxton Community Garden.

Images: Getty