Lockdown 2.0 is a little different to the first time round: namely, we’re allowed to meet one person from another household for a socially distant catch-up outdoors.
And what better way to blow off the cobwebs after being cooped up indoors than a long walk?
London might not be the first place you think of when it comes to vast open spaces, but there are plenty of walking routes all over the capital that offer beautiful scenery and pass interesting landmarks – and they’re long enough that you can fit in a good old natter with your pal, too.
Here’s our pick of the best…
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The South Bank
Sure, in normal times, the South Bank can be a bit of a nightmare – businesspeople queueing outside Pret, tourists walking three-abreast at a glacial pace – but during lockdown, it’s a dream.
Without all the hustle and bustle, you can walk the stretch of the Thames between Tower Bridge and Westminster and stop to admire all the central London landmarks you’ve never really taken the time to appreciate, from St. Paul’s Cathedral to the London Eye.
Regent’s Canal
Stretching for nine miles from Little Venice near Paddington all the way to Limehouse Basin in the east of the city, Regent’s Canal is a popular walking route for Londoners looking to get away from the busy streets.
There’s nothing nicer than the smell of log fires burning in the barges that line the canal on a crisp autumn day.
Epping Forest
Yes, Epping Forest is huge, and much of it lies in Essex – but a big chunk of it can easily be reached by bike from east London, and is well worth the journey.
With almost 6,000 acres of ancient woodland surrounding you, as well as over 100 lakes and ponds within the forest, a walk here will melt away your worries instantly.
St James’s Park, Green Park and Hyde Park
These three central London parks are all conveniently located right next to each other, so you can tackle them all together in one big super-walk.
All three offer stunning scenery, with lakes and bridges and landscaped garden areas aplenty – plus, there are lots of coffee shops dotted around for when you’re in need of a caffeine fix.
Richmond Park
The largest of London’s Royal Parks, Richmond Park is home to hundreds of red and fallow deer, making it by far the most Instagrammable, too.
Take the Tamsin Trail, the main walking route around the park, which passes many of the deer’s favourite places to hang out – you’ll feel as though you’re a million miles away from the city.
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source https://metro.co.uk/2020/11/10/long-walking-routes-in-london-for-meeting-friends-during-lockdown-13564862/
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