Hotter than Ibiza: ELL’s guide to sunny east London

 

With temperatures forecast to reach 25C this week – hotter than Ibiza – Eastlondonlines takes a look a the best rooftop bars, cinemas, markets and parks for a weekend in the east London heat.

 


Woodberry Wetlands


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Woodberry Wetlands. Pic: London Wildlife Trust

Newly opened to the public for the first time in 200 years, nature reserve Woodberry Wetlands offers a natural haven in the midst of busy city life. The nature reserve is completely free to all, and is bursting with a wide range of wildlife from birds, including swallows and chiffchaffs, to butterflies and bats. The wetlands are the perfect place for a weekend walkabout.

When? –  Monday-Friday: 8 am – 5pm, Saturday-Sunday: 9am – 5pm

 


London Fields Lido


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London Fields Lido’s outdoor pool. Pic: Peter Smith

Based in London Fields Park, this heated outdoor pool is 50 metres in length. Whether you are taking a dip, bathing in the sun or relaxing at the Lido cafe, you will not be short of ways to spend a summer’s day.

When? – Monday-Sunday 6.30am – 9pm

 


Dalston Roof Park


 

If you’re not at one with nature but love a good view, Dalston Roof Park may just be the right place for you. Eat, drink, dance and relax in the warm rays of sunshine, and even into the night as it turns into an evening bar.

When? – Monday-Friday: 9am – 3pm, Monday evening: CLOSED, Tuesday-Friday: 5pm – 11pm, Saturday: 3pm – midnight, Sunday: 3pm – 10pm

 


Victoria Park 


Victoria_park_bathing_pond - WIKI

Victoria Park. Pic: Fin Fahey

One of London’s oldest parks, these 86 hectares of land offer a lake, cafe, children’s playground and a vast amount of space to relax in the rays. Also winner of Green Flag People’s Choice Award for the most popular public green space for three years in a row, this is the place to gather some freckles this sunny weekend.

 


Spitalfields City Farm


The most central city farm in London, Spitalfields offers a bit of the country in the middle of the bustling city. With charming gardens and a range of animals including lambs, chickens and donkeys, there is plenty of fun to be had.


Hilly Fields 

Hilly Fields. Pic: Judith Green

Hilly Fields. Pic: Judith Green

With tennis courts, a bowling field, cricket pitch and children play area, Hilly Fields offer everything needed for a great day in the sun. Spanning a great area of green land between Brockley, Lewisham and Ladywell, this is easy to access and easy fun for all.


Horniman Museum

Horniman bandstand skyline. Pic: Wikimedia Commons

Horniman bandstand skyline. Pic: Wikimedia Commons

This Victorian building in Forest Hill is full of natural history and anthropology, as well as boasting 16 acres of garden and a view of the city skyline, all at no cost. For even more fun, there is a Farmer’s Market of local produce, hot meals and flowers.

When? – Museum 10.30am – 5.30pm, Farmers market: 9.30am – 1pm

Where? – 100 London Road, London SE23 3PQ


Brockley Market 


Brockley Market. Pic: Emma Chadwick

Brockley Market. Pic: Emma Chadwick

This award winning market offers a range of street food by local producers and traders, from vegetables, hot food and cake, to wine. Wander around the foodie delights whilst soaking up the sun.

When? – Saturdays 10am – 2pm

 


Lost Format Society


Located in the centre of town, Lost Format Society offers Croydon’s only cinema and rooftop bar. Grab a drink in the sun, or sit back and watch a film, such as the Tarantino classic Pulp Fiction, which is on this Saturday.

When? – Thursdays & Fridays 5 – 11.30pm, Saturdays & Sundays 1 – 11.30pm


 South Norwood Country Park


 

South Norwood Country Park. Pic: N. Chadwick

South Norwood Country Park. Pic: N. Chadwick 

This 47-hectare country park offers a range of wildlife, as well as parkland. With a children’s playground and a wetland attracting over 100 species of bird, there’s an abundance of things to do if you find yourself in the Croydon area this weekend.


 

Where to find ELL’s list of outdoor activities:

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