1. Battersea Park

You probably never knew that an inner city park could have this much variety, hidden secrets, and simple enjoyment. Battersea Park is situated in London, just a couple of miles south of Marble Arch. It is considered by many to be the most interesting of all the London Parks. The most obvious wildlife in the Park are the birds living on or around the lake. While feeding the ducks you will often see Herons, Cormorants and Grebes. These are just a few of the many types of bird commonly seen in the Park.
Not so often noticed are the many varieties of trees, some of them record breakers.
Historic and attractive gardens are found in all corners, although they may not be how the original creators envisaged.
The Park has a fascinating history, leading from a duel in the marshlands before the Park was built, through to the Funfair and Gardens of the Festival of Britain in the 1950s. The area has some major landmarks nearby, such as Battersea Power Station, and the Battersea Dogs Home.

2. Bushy Park

With an area of 445 hectares (1,099 acres). Bushy is the second largest of the Royal Parks. Lying to the north of Hampton Court Palace, the park, has a distinctly rural character and is home to around 320 free-roaming deer. The famous Arethusa 'Diana' Fountain forms the centerpiece to the famous Chestnut Avenue.

3. Hampstead Heath

The Heath is only four miles from Trafalgar Square and has about 800 acres of lovely countryside. It is rich in flora and fauna, is enjoyed by thousands and is within easy reach of millions!. The landscape has woodland, meadows, heathland and many ponds along its valleys and features such as hedgerows and ancient trees provide links with the past.Kingfishers, reed warblers and all three species of British woodpecker breed, over 300 species of fungi have grown here and many-species of bats are here. The area is composed of East Heath, Kenwood House, Golders Hill Heath Extension, Sandy Heath, the Hill Garden and Pergola and West Heath.

4. Hyde Park

One of London's finest historic landscapes covering 142 hectares (350 acres). There is something for everyone in Hyde Park. With over 4,000 trees, a lake, a meadow, horse rides and more it is easy to forget you're in the middle of London.

5. Kensington Gardens

Covering 111 hectares (275 acres), Kensington Gardens is planted with formal avenues of magnificent trees and ornamental flower beds. It is a perfect setting for Kensington Palace, peaceful Italian Gardens, the Albert Memorial, Peter Pan statue and the Serpentine Gallery.

6. Kensington Roof gardens

As at April 2009, the gardens have a brand new look! After a serious facelift, rooftop gardens are once again open to the public, so if you'd like to visit, phone on 0207 937 7994 a few days ahead to check availability.There are three themed gardens sprawling over 1.5 acres including fully grown oaks and fruit trees, growing in just 1.5m of soil, and a flowing stream stocked with fish and wildlife. Spanish Garden: Based on the Alhambra in Granada, Spain, this garden has a distinct Moorish flavour.
Tudor Garden: This garden is filled with evergreen shrubs surrounded by fragrant lilies, roses and lavender in the summer months, while wisteria fills the air with its delicate fragrance. English Woodland: This is undoubtedly at its best in the spring months, when thousands of narcissus, crocus, muscari and anemones burst into life.Here you will also find Bill, Ben, Splosh and Pecks - the four resident flamingos. Don't worry - they can withstand temperatures as low as -10°C. They also have a number of resident ducks which all have clipped wings to keep them within the safe confines of the unique habitat.

7. Regents Park

The Regent's Park covers 166 hectares (410 acres) and includes stunning rose gardens with more than 30,000 roses of 400 varieties. The Park has excellent sports facilities and with nearly 100 acres available is the largest outdoor sports area in Central London.

8. Richmond Park

Richmond Park, at almost 1000 hectares (2500 acres), is the largest Royal Park in London and is home to around 650 free roaming deer. The pastoral landscape of hills, woodlands, ponds, gardens and grasslands set amongst ancient trees offers a peaceful respite to visitors. The Park is designated as a National Nature Reserve (NNR), a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

9. St James's Park

With its royal, political and literary associations, St James's Park is at the very heart of London and covers 23 hectares (58 acres). With a lake harboring ducks, geese and pelicans. St James's is also home to the Mall, the setting for many ceremonial parades and events of national celebration.

10. Alexandra Park and Palace

Alexandra Park can be found on London's Musgrove Hill, a short distance from Wood Green Underground Station. The sloping park has its own nature reserve. Parkland Walk is picturesque walk along a disused railway. Alexandra Park also boasts a boating lake and children's play area. At more than 200 acres, Alexandra Park is a welcome break from the city and offers spectacular views. At the Peak of Alexandra Park is the Alexandra Palace. Alexandra Palace was built 1873 as the Peoples Palace. The original Palace burnt down after only a few days, though a new Palace was soon built. An act of Parliament declared that Alexandra Palace remain a property of the people of London forever. The British Broadcast Corporation leased Alexandra Palace in 1935, the first BBC broadcasts took place a year later.