If you’ve ever searched for cherry blossoms in London, you’ve likely be served up a generic list of top spots, but what few of this quick listicles do is give you the full picture for Greenwich Park. One of London’s most stunning cherry blossom locations, it’s often overlooked in favour of Kew Gardens or Regent’s Park. Hopefully by the end of this guide, we’ll have you convinced you it’s a real must see
Cherry blossoms (Sakura) are more than just beautiful—they carry deep cultural significance. In Japanese culture, they symbolise renewal and the fleeting nature of life. The blooms in Greenwich Park, set against the backdrop of the historic Ranger’s House and the park’s peaceful atmosphere, in the centre of a city that never truly sleeps, create one of London’s most Instagrammable locations every spring.
And on top of the cherry blossom, this hidden treasure also benefits from fewer crowds and stunning views of the city skyline.
Most guides tell you you really must go somewhere and give no real guidance of when. And if you, like me, have ever trekked across the city to see something that wasn’t in bloom then you’ve felt that deep frustration.
So I’m going to be real with you and here’s a quick guide to the biggest problems around visiting and what you should do to make sure your visit is as successful as possible
The one problem with nature is how unpredictable it ism and that’s no different for cherry blossoms. And the result? Many visitors arrive too early or too late and miss the peak bloom.
Solution: Blooming in Greenwich Park usually occurs from mid to late April, but it’s influenced by weather conditions. Following park updates is a must, but also be an Instagram spy. Checking recent visitor photos online helps identify the best viewing time.
Popular spots like Kew Gardens are often overcrowded, which ruins the peaceful atmosphere. Thart’s why Greenwich should be your first pick, especially if you’re with people who might need a bit more support – like those who might be less abled…. or young kids who have bundles of energy! Weekdays are also better than weekends, and if you can make it in a morning then you’ll feel even more like a VIP.
If you’ve seen cherry blossom in person you know how amazing it looks. If you’re anything like me, you may have the ability to somehow make it look truly terrible on camera. So to try and save you from the same fate, I asked a photographer friend for his best advice.
“To get the best results from your visit, my advice is to go early morning. You’ll find the path near Ranger’s House has the softest light and more importantly you won’t be trying to find the one angle where someone else ends up in the photo”
As my friend mentioned Ranger’s House is the best place for photos. If you’re in Greenwich Park, there are two many places I’d say to head – the Ranger’s House Avenue and the upper level of the park near Blackheath Gate.
Where is the best place to see cherry blossoms?
Greenwich Park’s Ranger’s House Avenue is one of the most beautiful and peaceful spots in London for cherry blossom viewing.
Where can I see cherry blossoms in the UK?
In addition to Greenwich Park, other top UK spots include Kew Gardens and Regent’s Park in London, Bute Park in Cardiff, and The Meadows in Edinburgh.
Where is it best to see cherry blossoms?
In Greenwich Park, Ranger’s House Avenue and the upper level near Blackheath Gate offer the best views.
Which place is best for cherry blossom?
Greenwich Park provides a quieter, more picturesque setting compared to Kew Gardens and other busy locations.
| Location | Bloom Timing | Crowd Level | Photo Opportunities | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greenwich Park | Mid to late April | Low | High – Ranger’s House views | Free |
| Kew Gardens | Early to mid-April | High | Moderate – Japanese Garden | £12–£20 |
| Regent’s Park | Mid-April | Medium | High – Queen Mary’s Gardens | Free |
Recent reports suggest that cherry blossoms in London have been blooming earlier due to milder winters. Warmer springs in recent years have led to bloom cycles starting in early April rather than mid-April. According to a Royal Horticultural Society report, climate change is shifting bloom patterns by up to two weeks earlier than in the past decade.
Ready to see the blossoms? Visit Greenwich Park this spring and experience London’s cherry blossom season at its finest.