EN All journey times are approximate and subject to variation.
London
Active things to do in London
With picturesque parks, scenic lakes and state-of-the-art sports facilities, there are so many ways to keep active in the city – whatever the weather. Discover the best of London’s outdoor space with this energetic itinerary.
Day one
Start the day with a stroll through Richmond Park, a 40-minute drive from The Dorchester and 45 Park Lane.
T: 0300 061 2200 | London, TW10 5HS
Richmond Park
The largest Royal Park in London, Richmond Park is famous for its rolling meadows and resident herds of red and fallow deer. The 2,360-acre park is a National Nature Reserve full of wildlife-spotting opportunities and sports options, with activities such as cycling, horse riding, fishing and power kiting (similar to kite surfing but on the grass) standing out as highlights.
Drive for 30 minutes to reach Hyde Park Tennis and Sports Centre.
T: +44 20 7706 3422 | Hyde Park, London W2 3XA
Hyde Park Tennis and Sports Centre
Begin the day with an energising spot of racket sports at Hyde Park Tennis and Sports Centre. Six immaculate courts are tucked into the south side of Hyde Park, including a state-of-the-art synthetic surface court for a more comfortable game. The centre encourages a ‘turn up and play’ policy, but there are also drop-in lessons for players of all abilities.
Enjoy a 20-minute stroll north through Hyde Park to reach Hyde Park Stables.
T: +44 20 7723 2813 | 63 Bathurst Mews, London W2 2SB
Hyde Park Stables
Touring Hyde Park on horseback is a thrilling way to explore the famous 350-acre park. Hyde Park Stables is one of central London’s leading riding schools. It offers lessons for riders of all experience levels, taking routes past the park’s key attractions such as The Serpentine, the Diana Princess of Wales Fountain and the Albert Memorial, as well as along historical tracks such as Rotten Row.
Next, catch the tube for 35 minutes. Take the central line from Lancaster Gate to Bond Street, followed by the Jubilee line to North Greenwich Station and a three-minute walk to the O2.
T: +44 20 8463 2000 | Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX
The O2
The O2 is a London landmark, built in honour of the year 2000. Climbing experience, Up at The O2, offers visitors the chance to see the structure from another angle: its roof. The thrilling 90-minute excursion takes participants on an adrenaline-inducing expedition over the dome while attached to safety harnesses. Climbs are available throughout the day, including at sunset and twilight.
Next, take a 15-minute drive or catch the tube 15 minutes on the Jubilee line from North Greenwich to Stratford, followed by a seven-minute walk to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
T: +44 800 072 2110 | London E20 2ST
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Follow in the footsteps of your favourite Olympians at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, home of the 2012 London Olympics. From swimming at the London Aquatics Centre and cycling at Lee Valley VeloPark to court-based sports at The Copper Box Arena, there are plenty of activities to take part in at this famous, state-of-the-art complex.
It’s a 40-minute taxi ride to get back to the hotel, or a seven-minute walk to Stratford Underground Station, followed by 22 minutes on the Central line to Marble Arch and a 12-minute walk along Hyde Park.
Day two
Begin the day at Hampstead Heath, located a 25-minute drive from the hotel.
London
Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath is one of the largest and most popular green spaces in London. There are plenty of ways to get active in the extensive park, from al fresco swimming in the lido and training on the athletics track to hiking through the hilly parkland and ancient woodlands. Don’t miss the stunning panoramic view of London from the top of Parliament Hill.
Then, take a 15-minute taxi ride to Alexandra Palace.
T: +44 20 8365 2121 | Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7AY
Alexandra Palace
The so-called ‘People’s Palace’ has an excellent selection of activities to enjoy in every season. Rent a rowing boat at the boating lake for a picturesque jaunt on the water, ice-skate all year round, and enjoy panoramic vistas of the London skyline over a summer’s game of golf at the 10-hole Pitch & Putt. There are also several eateries and a Sunday farmers’ market, should you need to refuel.
Next, take a 30-minute drive to Regent’s Canal.
London
Regent’s Canal
Pretty waterway Regent’s Canal is a local favourite that’s popular with walkers, cyclists and water sports enthusiasts. There are a number of local companies offering experiences on the canal, such as narrow boat tours, kayaking and canoeing. Alternatively, test your balance with stand-up paddle boarding led by Active 360, leaving from Paddington Basin.
Hail a taxi for a 15-minute drive to the South Bank.
T: +44 20 7202 6900 | London
South Bank
The South Bank is a buzzing area of London, stretching alongside the River Thames. Take a sightseeing running tour along the waterfront promenade to discover many of the city’s most recognisable sites. Join an organised group with City Jogging Tours or plan your own journey to take in major attractions such as Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, The Globe Theatre, the Tower of London and London Bridge.
To reach the penultimate stop on the itinerary, take a 15-minute drive to The Regent’s Park.
T: +44 300 061 2300 | The Regent’s Park, Chester Road, London NW1 4NR
The Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill
End the day with a more relaxing activity and take a leisurely stroll through Regent’s Park. 395 acres of formal gardens, sprawling open spaces, playgrounds and elegant tree-lined avenues, this is one of the city’s most beautiful natural spaces. Head to the summit of Primrose Hill for panoramic views of the sunset over London’s skyline.
The Dorchester and 45 Park Lane are a 12-minute drive away.
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