The Regent's Park with Primrose Hill

Well I am not sure what exactly "tourist pollution" is in the heart of one of the biggest cities in the world, but I can tell you that despite large crowds on some days this is still a beautiful way to spend your afternoon. Lovely gardens, pretty lakes, open fields, lots of trees and fine little cafes make this a less hectic London diversion.

Regent's Park is my favourite park in Central London. It makes for a gorgeous day out, whatever the season! Different parts of the park look different and have their own particular charm, which is something that draws me back to it again and again.

The Avenue Gardens with the rows of pretty flowers and fountains are brilliant to stroll through, and Queen Mary's Gardens with the roses and ducks are really pretty as well. Do bring some bread if you would like to feed the ducks, geese, swans etc that are to be found in the ponds/ lake here! It's lots of fun, especially if you have kids (though that's really an activity for all ages!)

You can go on a paddle boat or row boat on the boating lake. Going on the boat before noon will give you about one pound discount (they count the fees per head on the boat, so you could make some substantial savings). There is an open-air theatre in the park, which i haven't been to, but from all accounts it's pretty good (stages Shakespeare stuff etc).

The London Zoo is also located in the park, which could also make for a very nice day out (it really is a good zoo!), combined with general park strolling. Near the London Zoo at the north end of the park is Regent's Canal. Following the canal, you will be able to walk to either Camden Town (for Camden Lock Market- quirky market stalls and great atmosphere!) or Little Venice (this is near Paddington, it's rather nice but i didn't find it overly impressive), depending on which direction you take. The Canal Route is clearly marked.

At the north end of the park, across a tiny road is Primrose Hill, and there is a brilliant panoromic view over London from the summit. It's not a very tall hill, really, and it's an easy climb to the top! Rather worth the (little) effort.

All in all, there's good reason why I love this park! Do make time to visit it, especially if you happen to be in London longer than the time it takes to cover the basics (big ben, london eye etc).

I ought to let you know that at the moment there is a little project called the Treehouse Gallery up near the boating lake at the park. This consists of a creative little space where volunteers host events such as puppet workshops and poetry readings. There are also 2 treehouses up there at the moment, and a number of swings/ net rope thingies. Great for kids and for adults as well! At the moment the Treehouse Gallery is due to be dismantled in September 2009, so do swing by there if you get the chance! it's something really different and fresh, and a brilliant idea and initiative. helped a man make his twig puppet for a puppet show to be held there in a couple of weeks. really enjoyed myself. :)