Your Unmissable Day Out: Family Outdoor Escapes

Make the most of the outdoors this autumn with a family day out in the parks, woodlands and riversides of Unmissable Greenwich.

Go wild in Greenwich Park

Autumn, when the trees are blazing with colour, might just be the best time to wander the pathways of Greenwich Park, one of London’s eight royal parks. Time flies for the little ones in the playground, with its maritime-themed climbing equipment and water play. Climb to the top of the hill near the Royal Observatory, ideally at sunset, for golden crowd-pleasing views over London.

Ramble along the riverside

From gentle riverside strolls to long-distance walks, a wander along the Thames Path is a highlight of any visit to Greenwich. Watch boats go by on the waterfront near the Old Royal Naval College. Loop around The O2 on the Greenwich Peninsula and admire the artworks that dot the route, part of The Line sculpture trail. Head east along the river from Woolwich Works through Royal Arsenal Riverside to the play areas and flower-rich grassland in Gallions Reach Park, for 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape from the top of the mound.

Cycle from Woolwich to Greenwich

The 6.5-mile riverside path from Woolwich to Greenwich is the perfect family cycling outing – not too long and never too far from somewhere to stop for a drink and snack. Pedal past London icons including the Thames Barrier and The O2, weave among wharfs and look out for the masts of Cutty Sark – home to the outdoor street-food market – on approach to Maritime Greenwich.

Fly a kite on Blackheath

Blackheath, the village at the southern end of Greenwich Park, is home to a vast green space that hosts funfairs and festivals throughout the year. It’s also one of the best places in London to fly a kite, particularly as the autumn winds pick up.

Stroll through Avery Hill Park

The beautiful open spaces at Green Flag-award-winning Avery Hill Park are topped by its iconic Winter Garden, a Victorian glass house filled with tropical plants and specimens from around the world. Take a wander through the rose garden, enjoy the parkland lined with mature trees or play ball in one of the sports areas.

Explore gardens in Charlton Park

Don’t miss the stunning themed gardens of Charlton House, a highlight of any visit to Charlton Park. Pause for a moment's reflection in the Japanese-style Peace Garden or take your little ones to explore the sights, sounds, smells and textures of plants in the walled sensory garden. Active kids – big or little – can practice their moves in the skate park, or show how many reps they can do on the outdoor gym equipment.

Admire autumn in ancient woodland

Get your fill of fall with a family adventure in Oxleas Woods. Wander the paths through the nature reserve, meadows and beautiful ancient woodlands, enjoying the canopy of changing colours. Warm up afterwards with a cuppa in the cosy tea room at Severndroog Castle, a remarkably well preserved 18th-century Gothic tower tucked within the charming Castle Wood.

Have an adventure on – or over – the water

There’s nothing like a bracing boat ride on the Thames on a sunny autumn day. Grab one of the popular seats on the outside back deck of an Uber Boat by Thames Clippers and feel the wind whip by – and the occasional splash! – as you speed past London icons. If it gets chilly, retreat into the climate-controlled cabin for a warming drink from the café bar. Kids go free with a family Hop-on Hop-off 1-day ticket; purchase online at least 3 days in advance for a 15% saving. Disembark at Greenwich Pier for Maritime Greenwich, or ride on to North Greenwich for The O2.

With open-air decks and wide windows to ensure fabulous uninterrupted views on your approach to historic Greenwich, a sailing with City Cruises includes an entertaining activity book to keep the kids occupied throughout the journey. You can also buy a 1-Day Hop on Hop Off River pass and enjoy unlimited river travel all day  from London's key piers; Greenwich, Tower, London Eye and Westminster. Tickets start from £9.

Not done yet? From North Greenwich, jump on the London Cable Car to sail over the river. Look west towards the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, glinting in the autumn sunshine, and east to Royal Victoria Dock, London City Airport and the Thames Barrier.