Grab those Nike trainers you nabbed in the ASOS sale, pop in your airpods and get yourself out to these beautiful London streets. We’ve done all the virtual walking so you can do the real-life ordeal, unless you’d rather walk these on Google Maps which is perfectly acceptable (but not quite the same). Weather permitting, these are some of the capital's best streets that you should definitely explore for one of the prettiest lockdown walks.
Kynance Mews, Kensington
Built back in the nineteenth century and just off of Gloucester Road, Kynance Mews is one of London’s prettiest hidden gems. With wild wisteria that would make any Desperate Housewife jealous, Kynance Mews is the perfect place to get a dose of floral beauty. If it even needs to be said, it’s also an incredible spot for your next Insta post. With several films shot here in the past, this sweet Kensington street needs to be added to your list of walking locales.
Can I just stroll up and down this road for my daily exercise?
Neal's Yard, Covent Garden
In this quaint corner of Seven Dials is this colourful cul-de-sac, filled with all manner of shops, cafes and bars. Before it was the vibrant street we know it as today, it was a corner filled with garbage bins and trash bags… slightly less aesthetically pleasing. Not only is Homeslice here, but so is St. John’s Bakery, renowned for its legendary doughnuts. You may not be able to sit and have a meal yet, but you can certainly enjoy the colourful buildings in the meantime.
Is it just me or does it look like a musical could take place here?
Chalcot Square, Camden
Showcasing the softer side of Camden is this nineteenth century residential square, set out over a small central garden. Perch upon a bench as you gaze at the various bold and beautiful buildings studded along the streets. If the square isn’t quite enough colour for you then mosey down to Chalcot Crescent, an adjacent street that shows off even more vibrant houses.
Picnic in Primrose afterwards?
Bathurst Mews, Paddington
Coming in as the second mews on our list is a Paddington favourite. Not only is it filled with colour and adorned with cobblestones, but it is actually the only mews still functioning as a stable. Ever heard of Hyde Park Stables? Yep, that’s located here, among the other 65 properties. With strict conservation laws in place here, you can take a gander at your leisure as it doesn’t look like these mews will be mew-ving anytime soon.
Spot me, carrot in hand, patiently scouting some horses.
Shad Thames, Tower Bridge
Once playing host to the largest warehouse complex in London, Shad Thames has become a popular walking spot ever since The Shard was added to the capital's skyline. Expect brown-brick warehouses as well as ongoing construction of brand spanking new flats. If you’re not the West London al fresco floral type then this riverside rendezvous is one to be added to your list.
Am I the only one thinking this would be a great place to play tag?
Roupell Street, Waterloo
Another brown-bricked beauty for you, Roupell Street is just a stone’s throw from both the river and Waterloo station. Often hailed as a time capsule within the city, this street will make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. Built originally by the Roupell family, this street has stood the test of time, even surviving The Blitz during World War Two. A quick scan on RightMove will reveal the beautiful interiors inside many of the properties located here, prompting the question: How do I befriend a resident so I can have a peek inside their house?
Doesn't look too bad considering it's been through a war...
Conway Street, Camden
Linking the Euston Road with Maple Street, this Fitzrovia locale has played host to many historical figures during its time. From the marine artist William Heysham Overend, to the New Orleans saxophonist Sidney Bechet, Conway Street is steeped in history. Also, just a stone’s throw from Regent’s Park, this is the perfect spot for a stroll… followed by a picnic in the park of course.
As soon as the sun is out, we'll be here for a walk.
Warren Mews, Fitzrovia
Housing just 10 properties, this little cobbled cutie is definitely a hidden gem. Another street littered with history, these mews actually survived a World War Two bomb that landed on the street adjacent. Following repairs, the small street can be recognised by its three and four storey townhouses as well as its idyllic terraces and of course, cobbled road. Although not functioning for any equestrian related activities anymore, there are strict laws in place to conserve the beauty and history of this area.
My next mission is to find someone who owns a terrace here and befriend them.
Ennismore Gardens Mews, Knightsbridge
Located behind Brompton’s Holy Trinity Church, these L-shaped mews host smaller one and two storey buildings. Most of the colourful properties here showcase incredibly well preserved original features harkening back to the Regency and Victorian era, perfect for that photo op you’ve been looking for. With several smaller gardens nearby, as well as Hyde Park, this is the perfect place for a stroll and then a picnic among the greenery.
It would be hard to wake up in a bad mood when you live in a place like this.
Pickering Place, St. James
Officially the smallest square in the city, Pickering Place hides quietly next to Pall Mall and St. James's Square. An enclosed area watched over by several tall brown-brick buildings, it’s definitely a place to go for a shorter trip. Also a resident here is a local lunch spot, Boulestin, offering the perfect al fresco dining in the square. In 1816, it is said that the Duke of Wellington travelled to Pickering Place from Paris to beat the living daylights out of Bea Brummell, a close friend of King George IV, due to his large accumulation of gambling debt.
You'd never believe this used to play host to gamblers, drunkards and even brothels.
If you're looking for more of the great outdoors, check out our guide to al fresco London here.
