As spring approaches, London prepares for its annual transformation into a canvas of delicate hues with the arrival of cherry blossoms. The enchanting beauty of these blooms captivates both locals and tourists alike, signaling the arrival of warmer days. In this guide, we’ll explore the top cherry blossom spots in London, offering a detailed itinerary for a memorable blossom-chasing experience.

1. Greenwich Park

A Candyfloss Arch Extravaganza Located just beyond the cricket pitch in Greenwich Park, this spot unveils a road adorned with bursting cherry trees. The tangled branches create a mesmerizing candyfloss arch, resembling a scene from a Lawrence Alma-Tadema painting. Exercise caution as you traverse the magenta carpet of petals beneath your feet, making it a must-visit destination for a truly enchanting experience.

Regent’s Park: Sunset Boulevard in Bloom Enter through the Chester Road entrance of Regent’s Park, and if you’re lucky, you’ll be greeted by an avenue lined with tall white cherry blossoms reminiscent of Sunset Boulevard. The southern end of Avenue Gardens is another hotspot, featuring a cluster of pink trees that gracefully hang over the path, creating a picturesque bubblegum cloud.

2. St James’s Park

A Circle of Elegance To witness the ostentatious blooms of St James’s Park, embark on a circular journey. Start at Storey’s Gate, where a clique of eight or so pink trees welcomes you, and continue towards the Buckingham Palace side. Elegant cherries leaning over the lake await, among the first to flower each year. Time your visit early in the season to witness the petals before they gracefully fall.

3. Kew Gardens- Cherry Blossom London

Botanical Extravaganza London’s botanical haven, Kew Gardens, boasts its own Cherry Walk, starting at the Rose Garden behind the Palm House. Japanese cherries grace this walk, forming two parallel rows with 15 trees each, resembling a blushing runway leading to the Temperate House. Expect Kew to be in full bloom by mid to late April, providing a delightful cherry-chasing experience.

4. Kensington Gardens- cherry blossom London

West London’s Sakura Oasis West London is steeped in sakura during cherry blossom season, and Kensington Gardens is a prime example. Start your journey at Lancaster Gate, where blooming trees greet you, and stroll towards the Albert Memorial, surrounded by six big, blowsy pink trees. Capture the essence of spring in the heart of West London’s parkland.

St Paul’s Cathedral: A Symbolic Springtime Spring officially arrives in London when the pale rosy pom-poms on the tree outside St Paul’s Cathedral make their appearance. These blossoms usually bloom early, so seize the opportunity to capture a petal-framed picture of the iconic dome. St Paul’s Cathedral stands as a timeless symbol of London’s transition into the vibrant season of renewal.

5. Kyoto Garden, Holland Park

Tranquil Beauty Built to celebrate the Japan Festival in 1991, the Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park offer a tranquil pocket of London. Home to koi carp, a charming bridge, and cherry blossoms, this location may not rival Hirosaki Park, but its beauty is unparalleled in spring. Take a leisurely stroll through this unusually serene spot, appreciating the harmony of nature.

Alexandra Palace: Cherry Blossom Picnic Retreat While Alexandra Palace may not boast the most abundant collection of blossoms, a line of skinny cherry trees points directly towards Ally Pally. The surrounding green patches provide the perfect setting for a hanami (flower viewing) picnic. Embrace the simplicity and charm of this lesser-known spot for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by blooms.

6. Crouch End

A Hidden Blossom Haven Often overlooked, the arboreal richness of N8 reveals itself in Crouch End. Explore Cecile Park, just around the corner from Hornsey Town Hall, to find a road lined with pink prunus ‘kanzan.’ These billowing trees transform Cecile Park into one of London’s prettiest streets, offering a hidden gem for cherry blossom enthusiasts.

7. Battersea Park– Cherry Blossom London

Serenity by the Thames Tucked away along the banks of the Thames, Battersea Park emerges as a hidden gem during cherry blossom season. As you stroll through the park, you’ll encounter an array of cherry trees in full bloom, creating a serene atmosphere by the water. The picturesque setting, with the river as a backdrop, offers a unique and tranquil experience for cherry blossom enthusiasts. Enter through the Chelsea Gate to discover clusters of cherry trees scattered throughout the park. The contrast of the pink blossoms against the lush greenery and the river’s gentle flow provides a captivating scene for both nature lovers and avid photographers. Battersea Park’s cherry blossoms typically reach their peak in mid to late April, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a quieter but equally enchanting spot to witness the fleeting beauty of spring. Whether you choose to have a peaceful picnic by the water or simply enjoy a leisurely walk beneath the blooming canopies, Battersea Park stands as a testament to the diverse and charming cherry blossom landscape London has to offer.

As London prepares for the vibrant burst of cherry blossoms in 2024, enthusiasts have an array of enchanting spots to explore. From the candyfloss arches of Greenwich Park to the tranquil Kyoto Garden in Holland Park, each location holds its unique charm. Embrace the beauty of spring by embarking on a cherry blossom journey through London’s most spectacular spots, capturing the essence of renewal and vibrant colors that signal the arrival of warmer days.