In this article, you'll learn the following:
When our typically damp British weather relieves us of the rain and surprises us
with sun, getting out and about in the big city is the only thing for it.
It’s a special thing when the sun decides to grace us with its presence in the colder
months. Even with chillier temperatures - crisp air, bright blue skies (and no rain!) are
reason enough to get out and about and enjoy your weekend.
Here are the very best
recommendations of how to make the most of the dry, sunny days this autumn.
From botanical gardens and bustling beer gardens to outdoor art trails and tree top
adventures, we’ve got you covered!
Wrap up warm and admire beautiful botanicals in Kew Gardens
There are few places more blissful to spend a sunny day than Kew Gardens. Home to
over 50,000 living plants, it’s the perfect place to wander aimlessly for hours and
admire the beautiful wildlife. Wrap up warm and amble within the Garden’s 500 acres of
woodland, and be sure to make a stop in the Temperate House - the world’s largest
Victorian glass house. Here you will find incredible species of plants from Africa,
Australia, New Zealand, the Americas, Asia and The Pacific Islands. Book your visit
here.
Tip: Discover trains to Kew Gardens here.
Enjoy an aerial adventure with this amazing SWR reward
Thrill-seekers, dare-devils and adventurers alike will love a day out at Gripped. This
brand new outdoor attraction is full of awesome activities that are perfect for a nicer
day. And with this SWR reward you can redeem 20% off any activity bundle from High
Ropes, Dual Zip Line Trekking, Speed Slides and more. Take to the tree tops and
admire the view from the beautiful heights of Hobbledown Heath, then speed through
the trees, down into the valley on the zipline for the ultimate adrenaline rush!
Stop for a bite to eat at Flat Iron Square
Home to a handful of carefully selected food-traders, Flat Iron Square is firmly on our
list of favourite London dining spots. The bustling beer garden is well supplied with
outdoor heaters, making it a lovely place to sit with friends and enjoy some spectacular
scran. Tuck into a succulent venison burger from Gamekeeper or scrumptious Roman
style pizza from Good Slice. You’ll also find irresistible, authentic Lebanese dishes at
Lil’Watan and mouth watering Latin inspired street food at Streat Latin Arepas. Find out
more here.
Admire brilliant works of art on this outdoor trail
Get those steps in and check out some show stopping art along the way with an ambling walk
along The Line. This public art walk spans three boroughs (Newham, Tower Hamlets and
Greenwich) and showcases an ever-changing programme of art installations and sculptures
along East London’s waterways. Current features on this fantastic free trail include Laura Ford’s
Bird Boy and Abigail Fallis’ DNA DL90.
Tip: Discover UK's best street art cities here.
Indulge in a tipple with a view at Willows on The Roof
Any opportunity to sneak in a rooftop bar when the weather allows must be leapt upon,
and Willows on The Roof is a central London sanctuary, perfect for enjoying a cocktail
or two. Situated above John Lewis on Oxford Street, you can enjoy panoramic views of
the city centre whilst escaping the hustle and bustle. Take a seat on the heated outdoor
roof or book into a private cabin and enjoy signature cocktails such as the Passionfruti
Marg and the Dark Espresso Martini. You can even tuck into a tasty chicken wrap from
‘Raps’, Tinie Tempah’s exciting new soul food venture. Book a table here.
Tip: Discover the best rooftop views in the South West here.
Wes and Sandy’s pick of the week
South Western Railway’s winged friends, Sandy and Wes are always on hand to
provide their top London recommendations. Sandy is a culture vulture with a love for
the arts, theatre and lunching with the girls, while Wes loves clubs, pubs and going to
gigs with his mates. But one thing they can both agree on is their love of (other)
animals. Vauxhall City Farm is home to a range of species, including alpacas and
chinchillas - plus entry is free, so you can coo over the animals without spending a
penny! Find out more here.
Hop on a bike and explore one of the city’s gorgeous cycle routes
Whether you’re an avid cyclist or occasional Santander bike-user, a cycle along one of
the city’s scenic bike routes is a great way to enjoy the wonderful outdoors and get the
blood pumping. Dotted all around the city, there are tons of cycle paths to choose
from. Explore parks, forests and canal routes and discover the capital’s hidden nooks
and crannies. SecretLDN has even got a guide to London’s most charming cycle
routes, to help you plan your perfect day out.
Tip: Discover the most scenic cycling routes in the South West here.
Visit southwesternrailway.com to discover the ticket options that are right for you
and claim amazing rewards.
