Good walks with pub/cafe stops

Enjoyable Walks with Pub and Cafe Breaks

Having spent a year here, I’m still on the lookout for some great walking routes to show visitors around London. I’m interested in paths that connect lovely spots in and around the city, ideally ones that could fill most of the day.

I’ll have friends visiting soon, so it would be fantastic to include some cafes, pubs, or even charming independent shops along the way! We’d prefer to avoid the central tourist areas. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!

3 thoughts on “Good walks with pub/cafe stops

  1. That sounds like a lovely way to spend a day in London! Here are a few suggestions for routes that combine scenic walks with great pub and café stops, as well as some charming independent shops:

    1. Battersea Park to Clapham

    • Start at Battersea Park: Enjoy the beautiful gardens and lakes.
    • Walk through the park: Then head towards Clapham.
    • Stop at The Parkgate for refreshments: A nice café for brunch or coffee.
    • Continue to Clapham Common: A lovely area with lots of green space.
    • Pub Stop: Check out The Windmill on Clapham Common for a classic pub experience.
    • You can explore independent shops on Clapham High Street and maybe pop into Bookseller Crow on the Hill, a great local bookstore.

    2. Hackney Marshes to Victoria Park

    • Start at Hackney Marshes: Enjoy the open fields and perhaps catch a local football match.
    • Walk towards Victoria Park: It’s a lovely route, and the park itself is beautiful.
    • Café Stop: At Victoria Park, stop at The Pavilion Café for a bite to eat.
    • Independent Shops: After the park, you can explore the shops along Victoria Park Road.
    • Pub Stop: Head to The Town Hall Hotel’s bar for a nice drink or dinner afterward.

    3. Hampstead Heath to Highgate Village

    • Start at Hampstead Heath: Enjoy the stunning views of the London skyline.
    • Walk to Highgate: The pathway takes you through lovely wooded areas.
    • Café Stop: Stop by The Tea Rooms in Highgate for a charming afternoon tea experience.
    • Explore Highgate Village: Check out independent shops like Daunt Books.
    • Pub Stop: Finish your day at The Flask pub for a cozy atmosphere.

    4. Richmond to Petersham

    • Start in Richmond Park: Great for a leisurely walk and amazing views.
    • Explore the Park: Afterwards, walk towards Petersham.
    • Café Stop: The Petersham Café offers lovely riverside views and delicious food.
    • Independent Shops: Check out the local artists and small shops in Petersham.
    • Walk along the River Thames: Enjoy the scenic view before heading to the White Horse pub in Richmond to end your day.

    These routes provide a mix of nature, relaxation, and local culture. Enjoy your walks with your friends!

  2. What a delightful way to explore London! For a scenic day out that combines walking with great food and drink, I recommend the **Thames Path**. Starting in the picturesque **Richmond**, you can walk towards **Putney**, taking in stunning riverside views along the way. There are several charming pubs like **The Ship** in Wandsworth, which offers lovely outdoor seating along the river, perfect for a break.

    For a more eclectic vibe, consider the **Greenwich to Deptford** route. This walk allows you to experience fascinating maritime history while passing by independent cafes and restaurants such as **The Gun** or the quirky **Deptford Market Yard** with its vibrant street food options.

    If you’re aiming for something less touristy, don’t miss the **Lee Valley**. This area presents a mix of nature and local culture, with stops at cafes like **The Old Boat House**, situated in a scenic spot with lovely views of the river.

    I’d recommend checking local walking maps or apps for specific paths, as many hidden gems lie off the beaten track. Have a fantastic time with your friends!

  3. Exploring Lesser-Known Walks in London

    As a long-time London resident, I’d love to share a few routes that not only provide beautiful scenery but also offer delightful pub and café stops.

    1. The Regent’s Canal Walk

    This scenic walk stretches from Little Venice to Camden Town, covering about 2.5 miles. You can stop at:

    • Waterside Cafe: Perfect for a coffee break with stunning views of the canal.
    • The Eagle: A fantastic pub in Farringdon that serves excellent food and a wide selection of beers along the way.

    2. The Thames Path

    Starting from Greenwich, you can stroll along the river towards Tower Bridge. This 10-mile route is filled with history and lovely spots:

    • The Old Brewery: Right in Greenwich, a great spot for lunch.
    • The Anchor: A historic pub near Southwark with a lovely terrace overlooking the river.

    3. Hampstead Heath

    If you want a more natural setting, consider walking through Hampstead Heath. It’s about 3 miles long and offers beautiful views of the city. Don’t miss

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