Victoria Park

When you visit this sizable green space known as the "people's park," you'll see throngs of fashionable Londoners wearing high-waisted jeans. With two lakes, a Chinese pagoda, a boating pond, a playground, and a smattering of other Instagram-worthy wonders, it is one of east London's largest outdoor dining areas. Vicky Park is a popular location for urban festivals when hipster picnics aren't taking over. All Points East, a festival featuring music and community events, was held there last year.

One of London's favorite green spots is Victoria Park, also referred to as the "People's Park." This vast outdoor area, which spans 86.18 hectares, is totally contained within Tower Hamlets. During the summer, events like Field Day and Lovebox frequently take over the area. All Points East, a brand-new ten-day event that comprises a three-day music festival and a midweek schedule of community events, will take place there in May and June 2018. In the fall, park visitors are treated to spectacular fireworks displays, but that's not all; the park was initially created by renowned architect Sir James Pennethorne in 1842, and some areas are Grade II-listed. The dogs are worth keeping an eye out for.

The Dogs of Alcibiades statues, Burdett-Coutts Fountain, and two stone alcoves from the old London Bridge are also noteworthy landmarks. Two large lakes, one of which has a Chinese pagoda island, a boating pond, and Vicky Park are all great for kids. The V&A Playground has swings and other play equipment, and the brilliantly constructed Pools Playground promotes imaginative play. Aside from having football and cricket fields, it also has tennis courts, a bowling alley, and a running track. And if you become thirsty while exercising? You can grab a bite to eat at the Pavilion Café before relaxing and taking in Pennethorne's exquisite vision.

• Best spot? The Old English Garden is a pretty spot for a bench-bound picnic, or for waterside views, set up next to one of the park's three lakes.
  
  
• Need food? Supplement your picnic with a stop-off at the scenic Pavilion Cafe or The Hub. Both cafes are wheelchair accessible.
  
  
• Anything else I should know? The park opens at 7am and closes at dusk. Last year, Victoria Park kept its Green Flag and Green Heritage Awards for the fifth year. Blue-badge holders are allowed vehicle access.

Google Rating: 4.7/5.0
Address: Victoria Park RdLondonE3 5SN
Opening hours: 7am-dusk Mon-Sun
Website: www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/victoriapark