What is it?
Conceived to offer both pleasure and the regulation thereof in one of the capital's dodgier districts, Battersea Park was opened by Queen Victoria in 1858. It now has so much going for it that it's almost unfair. What other green space in the capital can boast Thames views, an art gallery (The Pump House) and a zoo. It's so full of variety it's impossible not to stumble upon something new each time you visit.
Why go?
If you're a parent take note. Kids love Battersea Park: the pedalos on the charming, landscaped boating lake will keep them occupied for hours, while the sights and smells of the walled gardens give them plenty to explore. Battersea Park’s adventure playground is superb, with plenty of original and imaginatively-built features. But really, it's all about the animals. An enclosure apparently containing deer (they're elusive) is fun, but Battersea Park's ace is its family-run zoo, complete with lemurs, meerkats and pygmy goats. Nearby, there's the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home too.
Don't miss:
If you're feeling adventurous, try out Battersea's tree top adventure, GoApe? The course is one of the hightest in the GoApe family and once you get up to skies, you'll get quite a view of London. Conquer your fears and give it a go!
When to visit:
Park gates open by 6.30am and close 10.30pm daily.
Ticket info:
No tickets are needed to enter the park.
Time Out tip:
The Pear Tree Cafe inside the park offers a seasonal menu and even jazz nights during the summer. We'd suggest getting there early because the queues are long and the tables fill up fast.