Some may know London as a city that never sleeps, but amidst its wild nightlife and vibrant culture, there are also plenty of areas for rest and relaxation. If you’re visiting the capital for something other than work or partying, you can find peaceful places for refuge. From lush green spaces to calming conservatories, we’ve gathered a list of the best quiet places in London for you to explore.
Barbican Conservatory
One of the most unique quiet indoor places in London, the Barbican Conservatory is teeming with exotic flora and fauna. Though you’ll find it inside a large Brutalist architecture style building, its indoor section couldn’t be more different.
Expect to see fertile greenery cascading down the walls, complemented by peaceful fishponds rich in wildlife. You might be just yards from some of the biggest London attractions such as St Paul’s Cathedral, but you’ll feel like you’re in a tropical paradise. Find this stunning quiet place for couples on Silk Street, ideal for a Sunday stroll.
Kyoto Garden at Holland Park
Nestled in the heart of Kensington, you’ll find Holland Park, home to Kyoto Garden. This Japanese garden forms part of a 54-acre estate, which used to house the hidden mansion Cope Castle. Since 1992, it’s also played host to this serene oasis, featuring gorgeous, tiered waterfalls, Japanese statues, stone lanterns and koi ponds.
Walk among the cherry and maple trees and observe peacocks roaming freely as you stop for the perfect photograph. One of the best quiet places in London for couples, it’s the ideal place to wander after a day’s shopping in nearby Knightsbridge. You can get in as early as 7:30am for views of London you have never seen before.
St Dunstan in the East
Set within the ruins of a Christopher Wren church, St Dunstan in the East is steeped in history. Though flames tore through it in the Great Fire of London, and it suffered damage during the Blitz, it stands today as an homage to its past. These 12th Century ruins may not look like they once did, but instead the exterior façade offers greenery-draped walls with overhanging plants, trees and shrubs as far as the eye can see. Take your camera or get up close and personal with these ivy-covered archways, perfect for both history fanatics and nature lovers.
You’ll find one of the most historic quiet places in London on St Dunstan’s Hill, close to the Tower of London and London Bridge.
Richmond Park
Away from the hustle and bustle of the city of London, Richmond Park lies in the west. Here you’ll discover 2,500 acres of space (enough for six Hyde Parks), hosting rich wildlife from deer to bats and birds. There are 25 ponds and wetlands throughout the park, as well as more than 1,000 trees and more than 144 species of birds.
There’s no better place for nature lovers, whether you’re gazing out at kingfishers over the lakes or birdwatching in the woodlands. As the largest of the Royal Parks, there’s something for everyone in Richmond, as well as nearby attractions like Kew Gardens. Hop on the District line (where you’ll also find our Victoria hotel) and see for yourself.
Syon Park
Home to the Duke of Northumberland, Syon Park is another great quiet place in London for couples. Like Richmond, it’s further out from Central London in the borough of Hounslow, with plenty to do both indoors and outdoors.
Inside the main house, there are classical interiors dating back to the 16th Century, with imposing Roman structures and gilded trophy panels. Take a look around opulent great halls or relax in the on-site café before you explore the gardens.
Outdoors, you’ll find unencumbered views of the River Thames, offering a new perspective of quiet London. With 200 acres to explore, there’s plenty of parkland and a 600-year-old arboretum There’s even a Great Conservatory and room hire available, so head west for an unforgettable day out.
Visit the best quiet places in London with Clermont
While London might be known for high-traffic areas like Covent Garden, you can relax with these hidden gems. After a day of taking in nature or feeding your brain in manor house reading rooms, take a well-earned rest at The Clermont.