Wanstead to Royal Docks

Three hours | 9 miles | 15 km | 21,000 steps

This is a long walk but worth every step to enjoy the rich variety of landscapes, history and wildlife. You may spot cormorants and herons on the Thames; goldfinches and pied wagtails in the Olympic Park; seagulls at the Royal Docks; dragonflies at Bow Creek Ecology Park; and, if you’re lucky, skylarks on Wanstead Flats. There are lots of interesting features to uncover, which bring London’s trading and industrial history to life. And don’t forget the art! The route follows a section of The Line - London’s first dedicated public art walk. Keep your eyes peeled for works by artists including Abigail Fallis and Madge Gill.

  • Which wildlife can you spot on your walk? Access London Wildlife Trust’s spotter guide here.

  • Fill in our survey for a chance to get a full set of printed London Nature Trail maps.

  • Routes are mostly step-free. Any steps are marked and step-free alternatives identified. See key below.

    Plan an accessible journey to the routes using Transport for London’s Transport accessibility page.

    These are daylight routes. If a route feels unsafe, take an alternative.

    Use of these walks is entirely at users' own risk.

    Map legend below.