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Best Parks for Postnatal Walks in North London – For Mums, Dads & All New Parents
- Randa
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Hello lovely parents!
Those early months with your new baby can feel like a beautiful, hazy mix of feeding, naps (when they happen!), and learning your rhythm as a new family. Getting outside for gentle walks isn’t just good for postnatal recovery — it’s wonderful for everyone’s wellbeing.
Whether you're a mum easing into your recovery, a dad looking for ways to bond with baby, or just craving a bit of fresh air, these North London green spaces offer the perfect backdrop for peaceful strolls, shared moments, and that much-needed breath of calm.
Why Postnatal Walks Matter (For Everyone)
Gentle walks help support physical recovery after birth and boost energy, but they’re also incredibly grounding for new dads and partners navigating the emotional rollercoaster of early parenthood. The fresh air, slower pace, and gentle motion can help calm fussy babies — and soothe tired parents too.
Many families I work with — through doula care, yoga, and postnatal support — say that these walks became sacred time: a moment to connect, reflect, or just be quiet together.
Hampstead Heath
This wild and expansive space is perfect for families. Its variety of paths suits every energy level — from flat, easy strolls to more adventurous woodland wanders.
Why it’s great for new parents: The calm of the ancient trees and wide open meadows offers breathing room after a night of broken sleep. The ponds and cafés are perfect pit stops, and there's something so peaceful about watching early morning mist rise off the fields while baby naps in the sling or buggy.
Tip: Arrive early for quieter paths and easier parking — ideal for those early starts with baby.
Alexandra Palace & Park
Affectionately known as Ally Pally, this space has unbeatable views of London and paths that are wonderfully pushchair-friendly.
Why it works for mums and dads alike: Whether you're doing a solo walk for headspace or strolling as a family, the wide paths and gentle inclines make it accessible and energising. There’s a beautiful rose garden in summer and plenty of benches to stop and feed baby or sip your takeaway coffee in peace.
Bonus: The café is very buggy-friendly, and it’s a great spot for casual meetups with other new parents.
Waterlow Park, Highgate
A peaceful, tiered park with a tucked-away, tranquil feel – perfect for when you want to avoid the bigger crowds.
Ideal for: A slower-paced, reflective walk with baby. The ponds and tucked-away benches offer quiet moments, and it’s small enough to feel manageable when you’re low on sleep or energy. Great for solo walks or cosy chats with a partner.
Clissold Park, Stoke Newington
This charming Victorian park blends open space with shaded woodland paths and features a sweet animal enclosure.
Why families love it: It’s buggy-friendly, has clean facilities, and a great café — all key for navigating outings with a newborn. Dads especially love pushing the pram while watching the deer or grabbing a bite from the café after a circuit.
It grows with you: As baby grows, the playgrounds and open lawns make it a destination you’ll return to again and again.
Parliament Hill Fields
A part of Hampstead Heath, this area offers a gentle challenge with a deeply rewarding view over London.
Why it matters: That feeling of standing on the hill, wind on your face, baby snuggled close — it can feel like a personal milestone. Walk it at your own pace, or enjoy the surrounding flats first. Either way, it’s a moment to remember.
Top tip: Bring a flask and have a celebratory tea at the top. You’ve earned it.
Trent Park, Enfield
A bit further afield, but ideal for when you're ready for longer, peaceful walks in near-countryside surroundings
Perfect for: Weekend strolls with a partner or visiting family. Spot wildlife, wander woodland trails, and take in the seasonal beauty. There’s a lovely café for lunch breaks and plenty of buggy-friendly paths.
Queen’s Wood, Highgate
This ancient woodland offers a completely different feel – quiet, shaded and full of natural wonder.
A favourite for: Peaceful solo walks or quiet bonding time. It's also a great place to practise mindful walking or the calming breathing techniques we explore in hypnobirthing classes — especially for partners who want a moment of calm and connection too.
Making the Most of Postnatal Walks
Start small: A short walk around the block is a huge win in the early weeks. Don’t pressure yourselves.
Be prepared: Snacks, water, layers, a rain cover – London weather loves to surprise.
Work as a team: One pushes the buggy, the other carries the coffee — win-win.
Stay flexible: Skip the hill on tough days. Sit on the bench instead. You’re doing just fine.
Building Your Walking Community
Many families find their walking routine leads to friendships, connection, and even future playdates. If you're looking to meet others on the same journey, our Mama & Baby Yoga sessions in North London often evolve into informal support groups and walking meetups — and partners are always welcome to join the fun.
Your Walk, Your Way
Whether you're managing the morning shift and strolling with baby while your partner catches some sleep, or you're both out together soaking up a bit of fresh air, these parks can become part of your story — a gentle ritual during a wildly transformative time.
Each step is part of healing, bonding, and finding your rhythm as new parents.
And remember, if you're looking for extra support on your postnatal journey — from yoga and breathing tools to community connection and gentle recovery — I’d love to welcome you into one of our postnatal classes.
With love and warmth,
Randa
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