City life can be challenging. It’s hectic at every corner, from the daily commute to the hustle and bustle of getting around town, the high pressure environment of work and even its work hard, play hard attitude. It’s no wonder so many people in London struggle with their mental health.
In fact, according to government statistics, roughly £7.5billion is spent each year in London to try and combat mental ill health, while centres like Acute Mental Care, which have sites in Battersea and Windsor, a little further afield, have seen more and more admissions than ever before.
Of course, it’s important to look after our mental health and sometimes just taking a break and finding a tranquil space to escape the chaos and recalibrate can make all the difference. Across London there are plenty of places to do that. So if you’re needing a bit of a break. A space to reflect, meditate or just enjoy a bit of quiet time, here are five spots perfect for doing just that…
Kyoto Garden, Holland Park
We’ll start with Holland Park and the beautiful Kyoto Garden in the heart of it. The Japanese inspired garden feels like you’ve escaped to another country, never mind London. It’s a symbol of the friendship between the UK and Japan and is filled with carefully manicured trees, incredibly calming water features and a koi pond. In fact, its very design is focused on creating a sense of tranquillity.
There’s something beautiful about sitting by the pond, listening to the breeze in the trees and the gentle trickling of water down the waterfall.
Postman’s Park, City of London
Postman’s Park is in the heart of the city, but it’s also a great escape. It’s long been used as that and is named after the postal workers who would use the space to take a break themselves. What’s more, it’s a really reflective space thanks to it being the home of the Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice, a tribute to those who lost their lives saving others.
It really adds a sense of perspective to your trip to the park and makes it a great spot to reflect. There are plenty of benches to take a seat, while it’s largely shaded too, creating a real calming retreat.
St Dunstan-in-the-East
If you’re looking for a unique, peaceful spot with an air of mystery, the St Dunstan-in-the-East ruins are perfect. This former church, heavily damaged during the Blitz in World War II, has been transformed into a quiet garden, where nature intertwines with the remains of the Gothic architecture.
Located between London Bridge and the Tower of London, St Dunstan-in-the-East is now a public garden where vines and greenery grow over the old stone walls. The tranquil space invites visitors to take a break from their hectic lives, sit on one of the benches, and appreciate the combination of history and nature. The stillness within the walls of this ancient ruin makes it a great spot to practice mindfulness or simply escape for a quiet moment.
The Barbican Conservatory
While the Barbican Centre is known for its cultural events and exhibitions, it’s also home to one of London’s best-kept secrets: the Barbican Conservatory. This lush, indoor garden is the second largest conservatory in London, housing over 1,500 species of tropical plants, trees, and fish.
Walking through the conservatory feels like stepping into a tropical paradise, with the towering plants creating a peaceful and secluded atmosphere. It’s a fantastic place to unwind, with the abundant greenery helping to promote a sense of calm and relaxation. Open on select weekends, the Barbican Conservatory offers a unique urban retreat where you can take a break from the busyness of London and immerse yourself in nature.
Richmond Park
For those seeking a large open space to recharge their mental health, Richmond Park in southwest London is a perfect choice. As the largest of London’s Royal Parks, Richmond offers vast expanses of greenery, woodlands, and lakes, all teeming with wildlife, including the park’s famous deer.
The size and variety of Richmond Park mean that it’s easy to find a quiet, secluded spot, whether it’s by the peaceful Pen Ponds or amongst the ancient trees in Isabella Plantation. The open space, fresh air, and natural beauty of the park make it an ideal location for walking, meditating, or simply sitting in the quiet and enjoying the calming effect of nature. Being surrounded by so much natural beauty can help reduce stress, clear your mind, and improve your overall wellbeing.