7 Beautiful Winter Vistas in London and Surrey
7 Beautiful Winter Vistas in London and Surrey
Kate Byng–Hall reveals the most stunning views around – even in the middle of winter
As the icy winds and frosty mornings roll in, it can be tempting to spend the weekends wrapped up with a book and unlimited tea, but the outdoors is actually very pretty this time of year, despite the cold. Here’s our pick of the most fabulous winter vistas near us.
1
Painshill
Painshill in Cobham is an idyllic 18th-century garden crafted during the English Landscape Movement. A perfect picnic spot in the warmer months, Painshill transforms into a wonderland in the winter, especially on frosty mornings.
The centrepiece of the park is the calming Serpentine Lake, and bridges and follies mean there are loads of views to explore. There’s even a man-made Crystal Grotto. See if you can spot the backdrops used in Bridgerton!
The park is open 10am – 4pm.
2
Richmond Park
Richmond Park is the largest Royal Park in London, and is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Covering 2500 acres, there are plenty of vistas to enjoy here, and plenty of tranquil spots too.
From the right points you can see right into the centre of the city, with views of St Paul’s particularly visible from the park’s highest point – King Henry’s Mound.
The park gates open at 7am and close at dusk.
3
Leith Hill
Leith Hill is one of the highlights of the Surrey Hills. It is the summit of the Greensand Ridge, with several walking routes nearby.
At the very top is Leith Hill Tower, which, despite being closed in the winter, is the perfect feature to complement the scenery. The views from up here extend for miles across rolling fields – not to be missed.
Pictures left to right: Kew Gardens Treetop Walkway, Leith Hill, Painshill, St Martha’s Hill
Top picture: Richmond Park
4
Kew Gardens Treetop Walkway
Kew Gardens is full of beautiful views, including of the Palm House and the Pagoda, but try the Treetop Walkway for an elevated perspective.
From 18 metres above the ground, you can study the variety of trees in the Royal Botanical Gardens, as well as see over the top of them.
The Gardens themselves are open 10am – 4pm and the walkway is accessible 10am – 3am, although it may close if the weather is poor.
5
Richmond Hill
The vista along the Thames from Richmond Hill is one of the most iconic views in London. It’s so beautiful, in fact, that it is the only view in Britain protected by a specific Act of Parliament.
Its fame was secured after being idolised by famous landscape artists including Turner and Reynolds, as well as several authors.
6
Nonsuch Park
Nonsuch Park on the boundary of Epsom and Ewell is a scenic location to enjoy leisurely strolls or longer walks through the trees.
Formerly the location of Henry VIII’s huge Nonsuch Palace, the park today is the perfect place for an afternoon out with views of Nonsuch Park House and a charming café.
The park is accessible 24 hours and the café is open 8:30am – 4pm.
7
St Martha’s Hill
St Martha’s Hill in the Surrey Hills near Guildford offers more great views across the county. At the summit is the Grade II listed St Martha’s Church, which may have originally been a stopping point on pilgrimages.
The North Downs Way National Trail, Chilworth Heritage Trail and Gomshall Heritage Trail all pass nearby, so it’s a perfect walk destination.
