Green and Less Popular Activities in London
A Comprehensive Guide for Eco-Conscious Adventurers
Welcome to Bee in Holiday, your go-to source for eco-friendly activities and travel tips. If you’re interested in exploring London in a sustainable way, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we’ll uncover 10 major sections of green and less popular activities in the city, each divided into numerous sub-sections. Adventure awaits, so let’s dive in!
1) Parks and Gardens
London is home to numerous parks and gardens that provide lush green spaces for relaxation, exercise, and wildlife spotting. Here are some eco-friendly options for a breath of fresh air in the bustling city.
1.1 Royal Parks
The Royal Parks are a collection of eight parks spread across London, including Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Richmond Park. These parks offer plenty of green spaces for leisurely walks, picnics, and watching wildlife. Richmond Park, in particular, is famous for its herds of red and fallow deer.
1.2 Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens is a renowned botanical garden and UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting a vast collection of plants and a majestic arboretum. Visit the iconic Palm House, explore the Treetop Walkway, or simply wander the stunning gardens and learn about the importance of plant conservation.
1.3 Community Gardens
For a more hands-on experience, volunteer at one of London’s many community gardens. These grassroots projects bring people together to maintain green spaces, grow organic produce, and create habitats for wildlife. A few notable examples include the Dalston Eastern Curve Garden and the Skip Garden in King’s Cross.
2) Eco-Friendly Transportation
Reduce your carbon footprint by choosing greener modes of transport while exploring London.
2.1 Cycling
London’s extensive network of cycle lanes and bike-sharing schemes, such as Santander Cycles, make cycling an eco-friendly and convenient way to explore the city. Discover hidden gems and less popular attractions by following one of the many scenic cycle routes available.
2.2 Walking Tours
Join a guided walking tour to learn about London’s history and culture while getting some exercise. Many operators, like Walk London, offer themed tours focused on specific topics, such as street art, architecture, or even eco-friendly initiatives.
2.3 River Thames
Cruise along the River Thames on a solar-powered or electric boat to enjoy a unique perspective of London’s landmarks. Companies like GoBoat offer self-drive boats for a more personal and environmentally friendly experience.
3) Green Shopping and Dining
Support local and sustainable businesses by visiting eco-friendly shops and restaurants in London.
3.1 Sustainable Markets
Browse the stalls at one of London’s many sustainable markets, such as the Broadway Market or the Zero Waste Market in Hackney. These markets support local traders and often feature eco-friendly products, organic produce, and vegan options.
3.2 Ethical Fashion
Shop for clothing and accessories at sustainable fashion boutiques like Thought, Komodo, or Know The Origin. These brands prioritize ethical manufacturing practices, fair wages, and eco-friendly materials.
3.3 Plant-Based Dining
Indulge in delicious plant-based cuisine at vegan-friendly restaurants like Farmacy or Mildred’s. Choosing plant-based meals reduces your environmental impact and supports the growing movement towards sustainable food systems.
4) Wildlife Encounters
Discover London’s diverse wildlife by visiting these eco-friendly attractions.
4.1 London Wetland Centre
The London Wetland Centre is an urban oasis for birds and other wildlife. Wander the tranquil paths, spot various bird species, and learn about the importance of wetland habitats for biodiversity.
4.2 Epping Forest
Explore Epping Forest, an ancient woodland located on the outskirts of London. This vast green space is home to numerous species of plants, birds, and mammals, including the elusive European badger.
4.3 Urban Beekeeping
Learn about the vital role bees play in our ecosystems by attending an urban beekeeping workshop. Organizations like Bee Urban offer courses on sustainable beekeeping practices and the opportunity to interact with honeybees in a safe environment.
5) Green Galleries and Museums
Experience London’s art and history through an eco-friendly lens by visiting these green galleries and museums.
5.1 Horniman Museum
The Horniman Museum houses an eclectic collection of natural history, anthropology, and musical instruments, with a focus on environmental conservation. Wander through the museum’s beautiful gardens or attend one of their eco-themed events and workshops.
5.2 The Design Museum
Explore sustainable design and innovation at The Design Museum, which regularly hosts exhibitions on eco-friendly products, materials, and technologies.
5.3 The Crystal
Visit The Crystal, one of the world’s greenest buildings, to learn about sustainable urban development and renewable energy. This interactive exhibition, operated by Siemens, showcases cutting-edge technologies and solutions for creating more sustainable cities.
6) Outdoor Activities
Embrace the great outdoors with these eco-friendly activities in and around London.
6.1 Paddleboarding
Try stand-up paddleboarding on London’s waterways with an organization like Active360. Not only will you get a workout, but you’ll also help raise awareness about plastic pollution and participate in clean-up efforts.
6.2 Urban Farming
Get your hands dirty by volunteering at an urban farm, like Spitalfields City Farm or Surrey Docks Farm. These community-led projects promote sustainable agriculture, animal welfare, and environmental education.
6.3 Forest Bathing
Experience the Japanese practice of forest bathing or “shinrin-yoku” by joining a guided walk in one of London’s many parks and woodlands. The Mindful Space offers sessions designed to help you reconnect with nature and improve your mental well-being.
7) Green Accommodation
Stay at eco-friendly hotels or accommodations that prioritize sustainability and social responsibility.
7.1 Qbic Hotel
Qbic Hotel, located in East London, is an eco-conscious hotel that focuses on energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and waste reduction. Enjoy a comfortable stay while supporting a greener future.
7.2 The Zetter Group
Experience boutique luxury at The Zetter Group’s eco-friendly hotels in London, which prioritize energy efficiency, water conservation, and locally sourced products and services.
7.3 Good Hotel London
Stay at the Good Hotel London, a floating hotel on the River Thames that supports local communities and promotes social responsibility through its unique business model.
8) Green Events and Festivals
Celebrate sustainability by attending eco-friendly events and festivals in London.
8.1 London Environmental Film Festival
The London Environmental Film Festival showcases thought-provoking films that raise awareness about environmental issues and inspire change.
8.2 Urban Tree Festival
Celebrate London’s urban forests during the Urban Tree Festival, which features guided walks, talks, and workshops centered around the city’s trees and green spaces.
8.3 Zero Waste Week
Join the global movement to reduce waste by participating in Zero Waste Week, which features workshops, talks, and events on sustainable living and waste reduction.
9) Green Spaces for Relaxation and Meditation
Find peace and tranquility in London’s lesser-known green spaces.
9.1 Kyoto Garden
Discover a slice of Japan in London by visiting Kyoto Garden, a traditional Japanese garden located within Holland Park. This serene oasis features a koi pond, stone lanterns, and a beautiful waterfall.
9.2 Camley Street Natural Park
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle at Camley Street Natural Park, a hidden gem along the Regent’s Canal that offers a peaceful haven for wildlife and visitors alike.
9.3 St Dunstan in the East
Step back in time at St Dunstan in the East, a beautiful and secluded garden nestled within the ruins of a medieval church that was damaged during World War II.
10) Eco-Friendly Workshops and Courses
Enhance your green skills by attending workshops and courses focused on sustainability.
10.1 Made in Hackney
Learn how to cook plant-based meals, reduce waste, and live a more sustainable lifestyle at Made in Hackney, a community kitchen that offers eco-friendly cooking classes and workshops.
10.2 The School of Natural Skincare
Craft your own natural skincare products at The School of Natural Skincare, which offers hands-on workshops on creating eco-friendly cosmetics and toiletries.
10.3 The Restart Project
Become a DIY repair guru by joining a workshop with The Restart Project, which teaches participants how to fix broken electronics and appliances, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.
Conclusion:
With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to explore London in an eco-friendly and sustainable way. Now get out there and enjoy the city, knowing that you’re contributing to a greener future for our planet!