London is so green that according to some experts, it's technically a forest : its tree-lined streets are punctuated with endless verdant parks, public gardens and commons. You've probably heard of the big hitters, like Hampstead Heath or Greenwich Park, which fill with merrymakers at the first hint of spring sunshine. But the capital is also full of secret nooks and hidden crannies of green space, ones that will enchant you with their peaceful atmosphere, rare plants and imaginative design touches.

From nature reserves to community gardens, we’ve dug up some of London’s most secret outdoor spaces – the Davids to Goliaths like the Royal Parks. Yes, you might have to seek them out in the shadow of an empty office block. No, they won’t have Santander cycles and rentable deckchairs there.

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