Different Things To Do In London: An Outdoor Adventurer’S Guide

ByEric James Updated on

Think London is all crowded tubes, historic buildings, and concrete jungles? For those of us with a wild spirit, a major city can sometimes feel like a cage, a place you escape from, not explore within.

But what if I told you that a world of genuine adventure is hidden in plain sight, right within the city’s limits and just beyond? As an outdoor guide, I’m here to show you that finding different things to do in London doesn’t mean leaving your adventurous self behind. It’s about looking at the city with a different lens.

This guide promises to unlock that hidden side of London. We’ll ditch the tourist traps and show you how to find green trails, quiet waterways, and real opportunities to hone your outdoor skills. You’ll learn how to turn England’s capital into your own personal basecamp for adventure.

Beyond the Pavement: Embracing London’s Urban Hiking Trails

Forget the idea that hiking requires a trip to a national park. London is crisscrossed by an incredible network of long-distance footpaths that offer a true sense of journey and exploration, a perfect example of how to approach different things to do in London from the ground up.

The Capital Ring and London LOOP

These two “M25s for walkers” are your gateway to seeing the city’s greenest corridors. The Capital Ring is a 78-mile inner loop, while the London Outer Orbital Path (LOOP) is a massive 150-mile trail around the very edge of the city.

Don’t tackle them all at once. Break them into manageable day-hike sections, easily accessible by public transport. You’ll walk through ancient woodlands, along forgotten canals, and discover parks you never knew existed. This is one of the best different things to do in London tips: use the city’s infrastructure to fuel your adventures.

Gear for the Urban Trail

While you don’t need full mountain gear, the right kit makes all the difference. Pavement and hard-packed trails can be tough on the feet.

  • Footwear: A sturdy pair of trail shoes or lightweight hiking boots is essential. Think something like the Merrell Moab 3 or the Salomon X Ultra 4 for all-day comfort.
  • Daypack: A 20-25 liter pack, such as the Osprey Talon 22, is perfect for carrying water, a waterproof jacket (it’s still London!), snacks, and a map.
  • Navigation: While phone apps like AllTrails are great, carrying a physical Harvey map of the route is a smart backup and a great way to practice your map-reading skills.

Finding Your Flow: Kayaking and Paddleboarding the Waterways

London’s history is built on its waterways, and they offer a completely different perspective of the city. Paddling the Thames or its network of canals is a powerful way to find tranquility amidst the urban hustle.

Paddling the Canals

Regent’s Canal and the Grand Union Canal offer miles of calm, sheltered water perfect for beginners on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP). You can hire equipment from outfits like Moo Canoes or The Paddle Hut.

Paddling through areas like Little Venice or Victoria Park feels like entering another world. It’s a fantastic core workout and a meditative experience. This is one of the key benefits of different things to do in London — finding peace where you least expect it.

Tackling the Tidal Thames

Paddling on the main River Thames is a more serious undertaking and not for the unprepared. The river is tidal, with strong currents and heavy boat traffic. This is where common problems with different things to do in London can arise if you’re not careful.

It’s highly recommended to go with a guided group, like those run by London Kayak Company. They provide all the safety gear, including a Personal Flotation Device (PFD), and expert knowledge of the river’s quirks. A sunset paddle past the Houses of Parliament is an unforgettable experience.

A Wild Dip: The Best Wild Swimming Spots In and Around the City

The call of cold water is strong for many adventurers. While you can’t just jump in anywhere, London and its surroundings have some fantastic, safe, and designated spots for wild swimming.

Hampstead Heath Ponds

The most famous of London’s swimming spots, the Heath offers three distinct ponds: one for men, one for women, and a mixed pond. They are lifeguarded and offer a bracing, back-to-nature dip in a beautiful setting.

Beyond the City Limits

For a truly wilder experience, head just outside London. The River Wey in Surrey or parts of the River Colne offer beautiful, clean stretches perfect for a swim. Always check the water quality on the Rivers Trust website and never swim alone.

Embracing sustainable different things to do in London is crucial here. Practice Leave No Trace principles, enter the water carefully to avoid disturbing wildlife, and never use soaps or shampoos. A great piece of kit is a dryrobe or similar changing robe for staying warm after your swim.

Your Different Things To Do In London Guide to Green Spaces

London is one of the greenest capitals in the world, with its Royal Parks and ancient forests providing vast playgrounds for the outdoor enthusiast. This different things to do in London guide wouldn’t be complete without them.

Richmond Park & Bushy Park

Famous for their herds of wild Red and Fallow deer, these parks feel like a slice of countryside in the city. They are fantastic for trail running, long walks, and wildlife photography. Remember to give the deer a very wide berth, especially during the autumn rutting season.

Epping Forest

This ancient woodland to the northeast of London is a dream for anyone interested in foraging (check bylaws for what’s permissible), orienteering, or simply getting lost among giant oak and beech trees. The sheer scale of the forest allows for a true sense of wilderness escape.

Honing Your Skills: Bushcraft and Survival Practice

You don’t need to be in the deep wilderness to practice essential outdoor skills. London’s periphery offers opportunities to learn and refine your craft, which is one of the most rewarding different things to do in London.

Look for reputable bushcraft schools that operate in the woodlands of Surrey, Kent, or Hertfordshire, just a short train ride away. They offer one-day courses on everything from fire-lighting and shelter-building to tree identification.

Practicing these skills builds confidence for bigger adventures. Following different things to do in London best practices means always doing so safely and legally. Never light a fire on public land unless it’s in a designated area or you have the landowner’s explicit permission.

The Escape Plan: Micro-Adventures and Overlanding from London

Perhaps the greatest benefit of London for an adventurer is its status as a world-class transport hub. Think of the city not as a trap, but as your basecamp for countless “micro-adventures.”

The Chilterns, the Surrey Hills, and the South Downs National Park are all designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and are reachable within an hour or two by train. Plan a weekend fast-packing trip, an overnight bike-packing loop, or find a quiet campsite for your van or RV.

Using London as a launchpad transforms your relationship with the city. It becomes the place you plan, pack, and return to, full of stories from the trail. This proactive mindset is key to finding fulfilling and eco-friendly different things to do in London and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions About Different Things To Do In London

Is it safe to wild swim in London’s rivers?

In some, yes, but you must be cautious. Stick to well-known and tested spots. Always check the Environment Agency and Rivers Trust websites for water quality data, be aware of currents, and never swim alone or after heavy rainfall, which can cause pollution runoff.

Can I legally wild camp in or near London?

Wild camping is generally illegal in England and Wales without the landowner’s permission. You cannot camp in Royal Parks or Epping Forest. For a legal, back-to-basics experience, seek out “nearly wild” campsites in the home counties just outside the M25.

What’s the best single piece of gear for outdoor adventures in London?

A high-quality, comfortable pair of waterproof trail shoes. They’re versatile enough for a 10-mile hike along the Thames Path, a wander through Richmond Park’s muddy trails, and comfortable enough for the walk to the train station. They unlock the city’s adventurous potential.

How can I practice eco-friendly different things to do in London?

Prioritize using public transport to get to trailheads. Always follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out everything you pack in. Stick to marked trails to prevent erosion, and respect wildlife by observing from a distance. Support local, sustainable businesses for gear and food.

Adventure isn’t about a location; it’s about a mindset. By looking closer and applying your outdoor skills, you can find a world of exploration right on your doorstep. London is not an obstacle to a life of adventure—it’s a unique and exciting part of it.

So grab your daypack, lace up your boots, and go discover the wilder side of the city. Stay curious, stay safe, and get exploring!

Eric James
Latest posts by Eric James (see all)

Similar Posts