‘London country ramble’ might sound like a contradiction in terms, but some stretches of the city are, quite literally, 
unspoiled countryside. Forget the formality of Hyde, Regent’s and Green Parks. Think: grassy hillsides, woodland, lakes, ponds, open heath (complete with heather) streams, squirrels and a glorious taste of nature. If you’ve been in London for any length of time, you’ll probably be more than ready for it. For the most countrified day of all, go to Wimbledon Common by bus, train or tube.
Photo by: Ella's Dad
Train or Tube: This involves more walking than the bus, but takes a lot less time. Trains run from Waterloo; the tube is the District Line. Both end up in the same place: Wimbledon Station. Turn right as you leave here and walk up Wimbledon Hill, turning right again at the top. Now you’re in pretty Wimbledon High Street and the village. Cross the High Street and walk along to The Causeway. Here, you can enter the common via the horse track, or stay on the Causeway until you reach the Fox and Grapes pub, and walk in from this area. Whichever way you go, don’t just venture a few hundred yards. Think in terms of kilometres. Take your A to Z of London and you won’t get lost.
By bus: Slower but ultimately more convenient. Get off on Parkside, opposite the common. Ask the conductor to drop you at the stop for Windmill Road, which leads straight to the common’s famous windmill and information centre. But don’t stay in this busy spot – grab a map and head deep into the common. For starters, you’re close to beautiful Queen’s Mere and some lovely woodland.
Photo by: Phillie Casablanca
Whichever approach you take, you can walk and walk and walk on Wimbledon Common. There are tracks, bridle paths, woods, heath, nine "meres" (lakes), a windmill and information centre, plus two golf courses (you hardly need notice them), in more than a thousand acres (460 hectares) of countryside. If you’d rather let a horse do the walking, book in advance at Wimbledon Village Stables in the High Street; it’s great riding country.
For a pub to relax in after your exertions, try the Fox and Grapes (see "Train or Tube" above), or The Hand in Hand and its neighbour, The Crooked Billet; they’re close together on a tiny lane called Crooked Billet, off Woodhayes Road (reached via West Side Common). All three are favourites with the locals.
Wimbledon Common is a very special place. Once you’re in the heart of it (don’t just stay on the edges), you’ll feel a million miles from London. Have fun, take a picnic and a friend, and wear comfy shoes! Oh, and visit Wimbledon village while you're there - it's one of London's prettiest.
Country Ramble No.2 coming tomorrow…