Streatham Common to Wimbledon Park Walk

Starting near London, England, this 9 km (approximately 5.6 miles) point-to-point walk from Streatham Common to Wimbledon Park offers a delightful blend of urban and natural landscapes. With no significant elevation gain, this trail is accessible to a wide range of hikers, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely day hike.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead at Streatham Common, you can take a train to Streatham Common Station, which is well-connected to central London. Alternatively, if you're driving, there are parking facilities available near the common.

### Trail Overview The walk begins at Streatham Common, a large open space known for its beautiful gardens and woodlands. As you start your journey, you'll pass through the Rookery, a historic garden that dates back to the 18th century. This area is particularly lovely in spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom.

### Key Landmarks and Sections - Streatham Common to Tooting Bec Common (Approx. 2 km / 1.2 miles): The initial stretch takes you through residential areas and small parks. Tooting Bec Common is a significant green space where you can take a short break and enjoy the scenery. Look out for the Tooting Bec Lido, one of the largest open-air swimming pools in the UK.

- Tooting Bec Common to Wandsworth Common (Approx. 3 km / 1.9 miles): Continuing north, you'll traverse quiet suburban streets before reaching Wandsworth Common. This area is rich in birdlife, so keep your eyes peeled for various species, especially around the ponds.

- Wandsworth Common to Wimbledon Park (Approx. 4 km / 2.5 miles): The final leg of the journey takes you through more urban areas before arriving at Wimbledon Park. This park is not only a beautiful green space but also historically significant, as it was designed by the famous landscape architect Capability Brown in the 18th century. The park features a large boating lake, tennis courts, and plenty of spots for a picnic.

### Historical Significance The route itself is steeped in history, passing through areas that have been significant since Roman times. Streatham Common was once a popular spa destination in the 18th century, and Wimbledon Park's design by Capability Brown adds a layer of historical charm to your walk.

### Wildlife and Nature Throughout the walk, you'll encounter a variety of flora and fauna. The commons are home to numerous bird species, and the parks feature a mix of native and ornamental plants. The ponds and lakes along the route are also habitats for ducks, swans, and other waterfowl.

### Navigation For navigation, it's highly recommended to use HiiKER, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates to ensure you stay on track. This tool will be particularly useful for navigating the urban sections where the trail may not be as clearly marked.

### Final Stretch As you approach Wimbledon Park, you'll notice the landscape becoming more manicured, with well-maintained paths and recreational facilities. The park is a perfect place to end your hike, offering plenty of amenities and beautiful views to relax and unwind.

This walk from Streatham Common to Wimbledon Park is a wonderful way to explore some of London's lesser-known green spaces while enjoying a mix of historical and natural beauty.