Written by Dalia Dawood PHOTOGRAPHS BY CAIAIMAGE/SAM EDWARDS

Okay, spring in London may not be a sunny haven, but in those rare moments when you can put away your brolly, why not make the most of it by visiting some of South London’s prettiest parks? If you’re looking for some beautiful and (mostly) tourist-free spaces for a relaxing day, head off the beaten track to these hidden gems…

NUNHEAD CEMETERY
To some, cemeteries are scary, but there’s nothing but serenity and calm to be found in this little-known SE15 location. Nunhead Cemetery is one of the Magnificent Seven Cemeteries in London, which were established in the 19th century to alleviate overcrowded burial grounds in the city’s small parish churchyards.
The 52-acre space is the second largest, and one of the most attractive Victorian cemeteries. It was consecrated in 1840
and has examples of some marvelous monuments that were erected in memory of the most eminent citizens of the day – including the grave of Peckham-born type founder Vincent Figgins, who died in 1844.
Enter via the North Gate and you’ll be greeted by a picturesque Anglican chapel. As you stroll around the gardens you’ll discover an elegant wilderness. Over the years the Victorian part of the cemetery has evolved into a woodland. Locals like to call it a nature reserve, so it’s now a Site of Metropolitan Importance for wildlife. You might spot some songbirds, woodpeckers and even tawny owls on your travels. Several areas of the cemetery have been restored, including The Stearne Mausoleum. PECKHAM RYE PARK
A short walk from Nunhead Cemetery is the pretty Peckham Rye Park. It sits next to Peckham Rye Common – though the two are treated as one, they’re actually separate green spaces in this part of the South. Just a stone’s throw away from the bustle of popular shopping area Rye Lane, you’ll find a secluded and stunning woodland here, making up 113 acres of open grassland, water gardens and a lake. An area of historic wildlife and conservation, there’s plenty to see, including a wide range of fascinating flora and fauna and plenty of wildlife. So make sure you head out early to cover the park trail. www.peckhamryepark.org/park-trail
Many a visitor has marvelled at the lush surroundings of both Peckham Rye Common and the neighbouring park, including famous Romantic Poet William Blake. In 1767, Blake is said to have had a vision of a cloud of angels perched in an oak tree on the Common! In fact, the park’s history dates back as far as the 14th century and was even mentioned in the Domesday Book (1087). The site incorporates the former Homestall Farm and even had a lido at the northern end of the Common once, which closed in 1987 for safety reasons.
On your visit, be sure to check out the River Peck and the beautiful water parks. Those with children will be pleased to know it’s a haven for little adventurers as well: there’s a play site and an older children’s playground, which has recently undergone renovations. Not only is this spot family and pet-friendly, the park has a real community feel, hosting wildlife projects and fun-packed family events. Head down and get involved.