The Capital Ring is a planned walking route around inland and central London, completely encircling the city whilst remaining within a ten mile radius of Big Ben. It is divided into 15 easily walkable portions, covering a total distance of 126 kilometers of open space, nature reserves and other areas of specific scientific interest. The London Low Emission Zone is sponsored by London’s 33 local councils, led by the City of London Corporation in partnership with the Greater London Authority and its regional transport functional body, Transport for London. The City of London Corporation acts as executive sponsor of the project. The route passes through a variety of landscapes, including parks, woodlands, cemeteries, docks and residential streets; however, it encounters some obstacles along the way, such as a canal or even an airport.
Here are the fifteen sections of the Capital Ring:
Woolwich Foot Tunnel at Falconwood
Falconwood at Grove Park
Grove Park at Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace in Streatham
Streatham at Wimbledon Park
Wimbledon Park at Richmond Bridge
Richmond Bridge at Osterley Lock
Osterley Lock in Greenford
Greenford in South Kenton
South Kenton at Hendon Park
Hendon Park in Highgate
Highgate in Stoke Newington
Stoke Newington to Hackney Wick
Hackney Wick at Beckton District Park
Beckton District Park at Woolwich Foot Tunnel
Planning a trip to the Capital Ring is easy as the route is well signposted. Additionally, there are numerous sources available online to help you plan your trip. Comprehensive information about the Capital Ring, such as maps and suggested itineraries, can be found on the Transport for London or Visit London websites.
The Capital Ring traverses a diverse range of green spaces, historic landmarks and cultural attractions, offering a unique perspective on London’s diverse boroughs and landscapes. Here are some of the highlights you can experience as you walk the route:
The Woolwich Foot Tunnel is a historic pedestrian tunnel under the Thames and is the starting point of the Capital Ring.
Greenwich Park it is one of the oldest and largest royal parks in London, home to the Royal Observatory, the National Maritime Museum and the Queen’s House.
Crystal Palace Park, originally built to house the glass palace after the Great Exhibition of 1851, features an array of sculptures, lakes and gardens.
Wimbledon Common is a large open space in South West London and is a popular destination for walks, picnics and wildlife spotting.
Richmond Park is the largest of London’s Royal Parks and is a designated National Nature Reserve. It is home to over 600 red and fallow deer.
Osterley Park is a Georgian country estate boasting a large mansion, landscaped gardens and a working farm.
Hackney Marshes is a vast expanse of meadows and wetlands, popular for sport and recreation.
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, site of the 2012 Summer Olympics, is now a major cultural and entertainment destination with venues such as the London Stadium and ArcelorMittal Orbit.
The River Thames: The Capital Ring follows the Thames for several sections, offering panoramic views of London’s iconic river and its many bridges. You will also encounter other London rivers and streams along the way.
