Get back to nature at a city farm
There are not many havens for animal lovers in the capital, but Hackney City Farm provides a hit of nature in East London. Visit ponies, donkeys, sheep, pigs, geese, goats and chickens, or head to the garden to wander around the apple, pear and plum trees in the orchard and learn the art of growing vegetables and herbs among the flower beds. Or get even more involved with one of the farm’s workshops – they offer pottery classes, woodworking, art classes and herb growing sessions.
Address: 1a Goldsmiths Row, London E2 8QA
Website: hackneycityfarm.co.uk
Explore Hampstead Pergola and Hill Garden
This curiously peaceful corner of Hampstead Heath might just be the most romantic garden in London. Dreamt up by architect William H Lever in the early 20th century, this ivy-covered Georgian arbour has widescreen views of the heath, blanketed in twisting flowers. It’s gloriously crumbly, and despite being easily one of the prettiest parts of North London, is often relatively quiet – although you will have to duck just-married couples who have descended on the space for wedding photos – it’s just that beautiful.
Address: The Pergola, Inverforth Cl, London NW3 7EX
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