15 Places To See Cherry Blossom in London & Best Time To Visit 2023
So, when is cherry blossom season in London and where to see cherry blossoms in London? I hear you ask well the short answer is cherry blossoms bloom in London from April to early-May usually (but this depends on the weather). Below I’ve listed some of the best places to see cherry blossom in London.
The Japanese cherry blossom, known as sakura, has become a must-see in the UK’s capital.
At certain times of the year, London springs to life in a colourful and magical flower explosion of pink and white petals that attracts visitors from all over to experience cherry blossom season in London.
Not to mention having Londoners like myself in a frenzy to capture the fleeting sight of these pink pop of flowers which signals spring and longer daylight hours.
During these times, people partake in what is literally called flower viewing, or hanami 花見. This is the traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the momentary beauty of flowers.
Cherry Blossom in London
But, where and when can you enjoy these amazing cherry blossoms in London? You don’t need to look far as in this guide I’m giving you a list of all the areas of London where sakura is known to bloom and when is the best time to see them.
So, Lace-up your walking shoes put on your best spring dress and grab your camera, because we are going on an adventure for cherry blossoms in London.
When Do Cherry Blossoms Bloom in London| When Do Cherry Trees Blossom Bloom UK
Generally, cherry blossoms start blooming in April of every year. However, the time frame is heavily dependent on the type of season. If it’s been a warm spring, the sakura might arrive as early as March, and if the season is cold, they might only appear in May.
Different varieties of cherry blossom trees bloom at different times some bursting with deep pink blooms, others a pale cotton candy colour, and still others with white blossom.
Different kinds of cherry blossom in the UK bloom for different lengths of time, the average being 2 weeks. So, if you’re keen on getting that once-a-year Instagram moment, follow these guidelines and catch them before it’s too late.
Cherry blossom watching is just a one of the best things to do in London in spring. So, now you know when is cherry blossom season in London, let’s look at are the best places to see cherry blossom in London.
Where To See Cherry Blossoms London UK
From deep pink to cotton candy-colored and white, different cherry blossom trees can burst into bloom at various times during cherry blossom season London. There are the top locations on where to find cherry blossoms in London and the best time to visit.
1. Greenwich Park Cherry Blossom Avenue
During the spring months, the path known as the cherry blossom avenue Greenwich Park which is lined with soft pink flower petals that contrast with the beautiful green lawns.
As mentioned, the bloom is highly dependent on the weather. It can arrive anywhere between March and May to see cherry blossom in London. If you do visit the park, it might be a good idea to do so during the weekdays.
Over weekends, Greenwich Park is saturated with bloggers (like myself taking to get that effortless cool snap which isn’t easy), Instagrammers, TikTok users and families. So, while it’ll be beautiful, it’ll also be packed.
If you can only arrive during the weekend, arrive EARLY to see the cherry blossoms in London!! You’ can also read this guide on the top things to do in Greenwich London.
How To Get There
The nearest train station to Greenwich Park is Maze Hill Station and is a mere 5-minute walk down the road or up Greenwich Park Hill depending on which of the park gate you enter through.
Or the Cutty Sark DLR station and is around 8 to 10 minute’s walk to the cherry blossom avenue.
2. Battersea Park Cherry Tree Avenue – Battersea Park Cherry Blossom
The trees in this park grow up to 14 feet high and are considered extra special. You will be breathless when you walk along the aptly named Cherry Tree Avenue in Battersea Park, with it’s parade of soft pink clouds that hangs freely overhead.
It feels a bit like you’ve stepped into another world, where trees are pink instead of green, and everything is a little candy coloured.
The best time to visit this park would be in the second week of April, depending on the season to see Battersea Park sakura. You’ can also read this guide on the top things to do in Battersea London.
How To Get There
The nearest station to the park is Battersea Park Station, only a short walk across a roundabout.
3. St. Paul’s Cathedral
For the Instagrammer in search of a stunning backdrop, London’s cherry blossom provides an unforgettable experience. These pinkish branches perfectly frame Sir Christopher Wren’s iconic dome for one of the most picturesque shots that can be captured of this iconic London landmark.
The magenta blooms outside of St. Paul’s Cathedral is an annual indication that spring has sprung in London. You’ll find the trees in St Paul’s Churchyard, to the south of the London cathedral.
How To Get There
The closest station to the cathedral is St. Paul’s tube station a few minute walk down Panyer Alley.
4. Cherry Blossom Spots in Kensington
Kensington Gardens
These gardens are located close to Hyde Park, and the trees bloom relatively close together. Once you enter the Lancaster Gate and move towards Albert Memorial, you’ll spot a row of amazing magenta trees.
Below are the best places in Kensington to see London cherry blossom:
- Boltons and Little Boltons in Late March. You’ll find an especially large pink magnolia tree down the street from 23 Egerton Terrace, SW3 2BU.
- Stanley Crescent Cherry Blossom (Notting Hill area) blooms during late March and early April – focused around W11 2NQ a short walk from Notting Hill Gate Station.
You can use this guide to find out all the best things to do in and around Kensington.
How To Get There
The closest station to Kensington Gardens is the High Street Kensington station that’s only a 10-minute walk from the entrance.
5. Paddington
Sussex Gardens, Paddington is the perfect spot for a London photoshoot with its gorgeous townhouses and hotels as well as magnificent cherry blossom trees. What’s more? It also has red telephone boxes that provide the iconic London photo op! You can use this guide to find out all the cool things to do in and around Paddington Station.
How To Get There
The closest station to Paddington Station and walk to Sussex Gardens, Tyburnia, W2 2RU
6. Regent Park & Primrose Hill
Much to the dismay of the visitors, the cherry blossom trees in Regents Park were removed in 2015 due to a disease.
However, they have since been replaced with a healthy breed of the ‘Sunset Boulevard’ variety. You can see the cherry blossoms pop out from the Chester Road entrance of the park.
If you’re looking to have a cherry blossom photo shoot, Regents Park is the perfect place! However, keep in mind that there are two separate spots for picture-taking: one outside and one inside.
- The first spot can be found just beyond the park entrance on Chester Road where you can find cherry trees lining paths in Regent’s Park features the magnificent trees blooming with Kanzan variety cherry blossoms in London (since 2015 they’ve been replaced by Sunset Boulevards).
- Next up? Inside Avenue Gardens at the southern end near Broad Walk; here visitors will find stunningly beautiful archways decorated with delicate pink petals reaching high into blue skies. So make sure to mark your calendars twice if you want these breathtaking shots – each location has its own unique bloom time!
How To Get There
The nearest train station is Regent Park’s Tube Station that is located 3 minutes on the south side of the park.
7. Ravenscourt Park
Although not widely-known, this park has steadily risen in popularity – particularly on weekend evenings. If you go at the right time of year – late March to early April – then you will find yourself surrounded by an array of gorgeous cherry blossom blooms and a canopy of flowers!
On top of that, there’s even a basketball court situated amidst the greenery. For the best experience possible, be sure to visit during sunrise or just after it; when morning light hits these petals they truly become extraordinary.
How To Get There
The nearest train station is Hammersmith – Paddenswick Rd, Hammersmith, W6 0UA
8. Kyoto Garden, Holland Park
It’s obvious that London’s Japanese garden would have some of the most beautiful cherry blossom trees in England.
These delicate magenta flowers bloom in contrast with the koi pond and add some flair to the space. You can use this guide to find out all the cool things to do in and around Holland Park.
How To Get There
The closest train station to Kyoto Garden is Holland Park subway station. It’s just across Holland Park Avenue road.
9. St. James’s Park
This park is located right in the middle of London and has a lake running through it. Visitors agree that the blossoms aren’t as eye-catching, but the gorgeous surroundings make it worth the trip.
St. James’s Park is also in the very heart of London, surrounded by some of its top attractions. So, if you only have a little time to explore the city and its cherry blossoms, it’s still a top choice.
How To Get There
The train station closest to the park is St. James’s Park Station. You will still have to walk about 20 minutes to get to the entrance, though.
10. Alexandra Palace
The trees in Alexandra Palace are a breed that usually blooms relatively early on in the season during the early weeks of April. These massive trees are a beautiful and bright contrast against the manicured lawns and the stone paths.
During the weekend this area is filled with visitors looking for the perfect shot, so visiting the park on a weekday will be your best bet.
How To Get There
The train station that is located closest to this park is just around the corner – the Alexandra Palace Station. You’ll turn left on Buckingham Road onto Bedford Road to enter the blooming beauty of Alexandra Palace.
11. Herne Hill
Herne Hill has been a favourite spot for blossom viewing for years. This area has a special variety of trees named Yoshino which has a white blossom. To see the best of Herne Hill, visit Winterbrook Road.
How To Get There
The station closest to Winterblock Road is Herne Hill Station, which is a short walking distance from the blooms.
12. Crouch End
This area is just a stone’s throw away from Hornsey Town Hall. The best blooms of Crouch End often happen in Cecile Park during the first weeks of April. The type of trees located here are from the Kanzan species and they boast a slightly darker pink hue.
How To Get There
The railway line closest to this location is Crouch Hill Overground, between Stroud Green and Crouch End.
13. Swiss Cottage Cherry Blossom
This area has some of the best cherry trees in the city and it doesn’t get many visitors. Sounds perfect right?
This is a very private and quiet residential area of North West London that has trees scattered across the landscapes. This space is not for those looking for the classic tourist experience, but for those hardcore adventurers.
The amazing trails of white and pink petals will soon lead you to an array of trees but remember that some of these spaces are privately owned, and you should therefore be careful where you explore.
How To Get There
The closest station to this area is Swiss Cottage Station. A few-minute walk will take you directly to a row of cherry blossom trees ready for the lens.
14. Kew Gardens Cherry Blossom London Area
Kew Gardens is London’s biggest botanical garden. It hosts a variety of Japanese cherry blossom trees. This site is perfect for those explorers who want to see more varieties of cherry blossoms in a small space of time.
When you get to the rose garden just behind the famous Palm House, you’ll spot an array of trees waiting to be in your Instagram story.
Venture along the trail until it transitions to ‘Cherry Walk’, where you’ll find a stretch of vibrant, deeper pink cherry blossom stretching from King William’s Temple to the Temperate House.
How To Get There
The station closest to these trees is the Kew Gardens Rail Station, and you will be in the pink fields in no time.
15. Best Cherry Blossom Instagram Locations in London | Notting Hill And Chelsea
If you’re planning on seeing the cherry blossom trees in London, it’s worth mentioning the amazing area of Chelsea and Notting Hill.
Here, white houses are contrasted with soft pastel hues of pink and white. In this area, it would be hard to turn a corner and not bump into an Instagrammable cherry blossom tree.
Here are a few of the most notable streets that you can visit during the month of April if you wish to see an array of Japanese cherry blossom species.
Notable streets in Notting Hill:
● Redcliffe Road
● Courtfield Gardens
● Lansdowne Road
● Pembridge Square
● Westbourne Grove
Notable streets in Chelsea:
● Bramerton Street
● Glebe Place
● St. Leonard’s Terrace
● Blithfield Street
How To Get There
To start exploring these areas in London during the cherry blossom season of the UK, you can hop on a train and get off at Gloucester Road, West Brompton, Kensington or Sloane Square. It all depends on which area you want to cover first!
Check out this post if you’re keen to explore Chelsea a little more while you’re at it.
Final Thoughts On Blossom Spotting In London | Sakura In London
Seeing cherry blossom trees in London is a one-of-a-kind experience that you simply cannot miss.
The tradition of sakura trees has taken London by storm since the planting of these 6500 trees since 2019. If this is your first trip to this city, check out my travel resources to make your planning go smoothly.