Dulwich Park
rhododendrons and a boating lake
A genteel Victorian park in leafy south London, free, with a boating lake, famous spring rhododendrons and flat tracks made for cycling, beside the free Dulwich Picture Gallery grounds.
Free to visit · Dulwich · North Dulwich · SE21 7BQ
Opening: Daily · 8am to dusk
Dulwich Park opened in 1890 and has kept its calm, well-mannered Victorian character ever since. Wide carriage drives loop around lawns, a boating lake and an old American Garden, in one of the leafiest and most village-like corners of south London.
It is famous for its springtime rhododendrons and azaleas, a blaze of colour that Queen Mary so loved she would visit each year to see them. There is a good café in the old stable yard, a recumbent cycle hire for the flat, traffic-free tracks, and plenty of space for families.
Just outside its gates is Dulwich Picture Gallery, the oldest purpose-built public art gallery in England, whose lovely grounds are free to enjoy even though the gallery itself charges. Together they make a gentle, genteel free half day in the suburbs.
Getting there: A short walk from North Dulwich or West Dulwich stations, in the genteel village of Dulwich.
Best time to go: Late spring for the rhododendrons and azaleas, which Queen Mary loved enough to visit specially.
Insider tip: Time a visit for the rhododendron season in late spring for the park at its most spectacular, then wander to the grounds of Dulwich Picture Gallery next door, which you can enjoy for free even without a gallery ticket.
Official site: https://www.southwark.gov.uk
Free things to do in London · London Free Guide