Though London's fast-paced lifestyle is part of the city’s fun, where do you go when you want to escape the hustle and bustle? Discover the hidden gems of London's parks and gardens to see everything from large leafy-green expanses and rows of vibrant roses, to tranquil Japanese ponds. Whether you are looking to take your kids to a playground, or just plant yourself somewhere quiet to read a book, there are many garden destinations to choose from. Below are our top picks that are just a stroll away from your hotel room…

Kensington Gardens

Just down the road from The Kensington is the world renowned Kensington Gardens - one of the most iconic destinations of London. This intimate, tranquil and secluded oasis is a must-see for everyone. Not only is the garden full of exceptional plants and florals, but also of history and culture. Explore contemporary art and architecture at the Serpentine Galleries, absorb some royal history and heritage of Kensington Palace, or admire the Victorian splendour of the Albert Memorial. Kensington Gardens is also the perfect playground for kids, where they can enjoy the huge wooden pirate ship, sensory trail and play sculptures, inspired by Peter Pan.

Kyoto Gardens

Located in Holland Park, just a half an hour stroll North from The Kensington, the Kyoto Garden offers a unique, Japanese-style landscape perfect for a quiet day of total relaxation. The garden was open in 1991 as a gift from the city of Kyoto to commemorate the long friendship between Japan and Great Britain and contains a traditional Japanese setting with serene waterfalls and a traditional pond full of gorgeous koi carp. Decorated with stone lanterns and Japanese maple trees, you will truly feel like you've been transported to Kyoto. Who knows, you may be lucky enough to spot a peacock or two wondering around, adding to the unique atmosphere.

Bloomsbury Square Garden

Just a hop, skip and a jump from The Bloomsbury lies London’s oldest square, surrounded by the opulence of Georgian terraces. The square has recently been renovated to reflect the elements of Humphrey Repton’s 1806 original designs, who was responsible for planning the picturesque Gardens at Woburn Abbey, the Duke of Bedford’s country estate.

Brunswick Square Garden

Tucked away in the leafy streets surrounding The Bloomsbury, Brunswick Square is a public garden, where you will find locals wrapped up in their blankets absorbed in their books, planted around the beautiful greenery. This intimate setting is perfect for a afternoon stroll, or a quiet read.

Paddington Street Gardens

Hidden away among the shopping oasis of Marylebone, Paddington Street Gardens is the perfect pit stop for family fun or even a peaceful stroll. The garden is broken up into two sections, with the popular children’s playground in the Southern end, and the quiet pathways to the north. The park is popular with local residents, shoppers, and workers from the many surrounding shops and offices. And in season, vibrant flowers bloom, specifically roses, in the beds by Paddington Street, with the rest of the park given over to grassy lawn, shrubs and rows of fine London Plane trees - a symphony in green during the summer.

Queen Mary’s Rose Gardens

The world-famous garden named after the wife of King George V, Queen Mary’s Garden is home to London’s largest collection of roses with approximately 12,000 roses planted. Situated in the heart of London, just a few minutes from The Marylebone, in the inner circle of Regent’s Park, you can sit at one of the benches surrounding the gardens and take in the soothing scents of the plants. Cocoon yourself from the hustle and bustle of the city with this hidden oasis, and be transported