Victoria Park

Victoria Park is brilliant for all ages. Toddlers love the splash pool and sand pit, school-age kids have space to run, climb and scoot, teens can hang out at the skatepark or cruise the cycle paths, and grandparents will enjoy a scenic stroll and a nice cuppa.

If you want to head straight to the lake and the Pavilion Café, come in via the Grove Road gate near Victoria Park Village. For the main playground, splash zone and Hub Café, St Mark’s Gate on Cadogan Terrace is your best bet. The Bonner Gate side near Mile End brings you in close to the sports courts and canal.

There are two excellent family-friendly cafés in the park. The Pavilion Café overlooks the lake and is great for brunch or cake, while the Hub Café near the playground does reliable snacks and lunches for kids and grown-ups alike.

Yes – the park has loads of smooth, leafy cycle paths perfect for bikes and scooters. There are also tennis courts, football pitches and a cricket net, so bring a ball or racket if you fancy a game.

Most families make a beeline for the main playground and splash area near the Hub, especially on sunny days. If you’ve got older kids, the skate ramps or lake are good spots to start, and if you’re after a peaceful stroll, head for the canal or one of the quieter garden areas.

Yes, the park’s popular with local teens and has a relaxed but friendly feel. As with anywhere, it’s wise to agree on a meeting point and check in now and then, but it’s generally a safe and familiar space for independent exploring.

Once you’ve explored the park, you can walk along Regent’s Canal, pop into Victoria Park Village for indie shops and food, or head towards Mile End Park, which has even more playgrounds and open spaces to explore.

The park is very accessible, with step-free paths throughout, accessible loos, and surfaces that are buggy- and wheelchair-friendly. It’s a good shout for families with mixed mobility needs.

Yes – you’ll find public loos at the Pavilion Café, the Hub and some of the main gates. They’re clean enough and include baby-changing facilities, which is always a win when you’re out with younger kids.

Grab a takeaway tea from the café and pick a bench in the sunshine. There’s plenty of shade, calm spots to rest, and good loos – ideal if you’re helping out on a school holiday.