Royal Parks

Autumn gives London a character all of its own. Mornings arrive with a crisp chill, afternoons glow with softer light, and the city’s parks turn into tapestries of russet, ochre and gold. From The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences, you’re perfectly placed to experience some of the capital’s most beautiful autumn walks, with Green Park just across the road and St James’s and Hyde Park moments away.

12/10/25

Golden stroll through Green Park and St James’s Park

Slip beneath the branches of Green Park and you will feel the hum of Piccadilly fade almost instantly. Leaves blanket the paths, horse chestnuts crack open to reveal glossy conkers, and between the trees Buckingham Palace flickers into view. It offers a quiet reminder of London’s grandeur just beyond the leaves.

Continue into St James’s Park and the rhythm shifts again. The lake mirrors the season’s colours, swans skim the surface, and flowerbeds hold the last of summer’s warmth. From the Blue Bridge, Buckingham Palace is perfectly framed by trees glowing in late afternoon light. It is a simple loop and takes less than an hour, yet it feels like a hidden pause in the heart of the city.

A longer wander through Hyde Park

If you have more time, walk under Wellington Arch and let Hyde Park unfold around you. The wide avenues crunch with fallen leaves and the Serpentine shimmers with red and amber reflections. The Italian Gardens sparkle in the low sun and on bright afternoons it is still warm enough to enjoy a coffee outdoors.

A little further on is Kensington Gardens where tree lined avenues, sculptures and the calm of the Round Pond show London at its most elegant.

Returning to The Athenaeum

Long autumn walks feel even sweeter when they end in warmth and comfort. Settle into Afternoon Tea at 116 where pastries echo the colours of the season. Retreat to the spa for an hour of stillness or unwind in The Bar with a whisky flight that carries smoky and spiced notes that suit the cooler days perfectly.

In autumn, The Athenaeum becomes both a launchpad into London’s parks and the cosiest sanctuary to return to.

Why October is the perfect moment

Calmer parks and quieter streets with locals not yet caught up in festive plans.
Golden light that photographers chase all year.
Leaves at their turning point, revealing a richer palette each week.

Insider tips from our doorstep

Choose comfortable shoes and pick up an umbrella from our doorman. Autumn showers pass quickly and it keeps the day carefree.
Look up when you walk. The branches often create golden arches overhead.
Carry a small bag if you enjoy collecting conkers. It is impossible to resist a few.
Dogs are warmly welcomed at the hotel with beds, bowls and biscuits ready for their return.

London is beautiful in every season but autumn has a quiet magic of its own. From crisp walks in Green Park to sunsets over the Serpentine, the city wears its most flattering colours now. As the leaves turn and London’s parks glow gold, there is no better moment to explore.