Autumn walks in London for a first date

I think autumn might be the best season for a first date in London. The heat has gone, the parks are full of colour and a walk gives you something to look at when the conversation pauses. Here are some of my favourite places to wander with someone new.

Why a walk works

When you walk side by side, there's less pressure than sitting face to face across a table. You can talk, stop to look at a view, or just enjoy the quiet. It's also easy to end after an hour, or to stretch into a coffee and then lunch if things are going well. If you're not sure where to start, our first date ideas in London has plenty more.

Parks with a view

• Hampstead Heath and Parliament Hill. A short climb to one of the best views of the skyline, with woodland paths on the way and cafés nearby.
• Regent's Park and Primrose Hill. Wide paths, tidy gardens and another great viewpoint, easy to reach by Tube.
• Greenwich Park. Rolling lawns, big old trees and a view across the river. Greenwich is also a pleasant place to stop for a bite afterwards.

Where the leaves put on a show

Richmond Park is huge and mostly free to enter, with deer and plenty of trees that turn in the autumn. Kew Gardens is a gentler wander, though you'll need a ticket. Further out, Epping Forest has lovely woodland walks, but it's best saved for a second or third meeting once you know each other a little. In central London, Hyde Park and the Serpentine are always a good choice, with benches and cafés close by.

Walks by the water

The Regent's Canal towpath from Camden to Little Venice is flat and easy, with canal boats to look at along the way. The Thames Path is another favourite, whether you stroll along the South Bank or choose a quieter stretch at Richmond. Keep an eye out for cyclists on the towpath, and take care on wet leaves, which can be slippery.

A few autumn tips

• Check the daylight. It gets dark earlier each week, so a lunchtime or afternoon walk is easiest.
• Check the weather and the travel. Wet days and engineering works are common, so have a plan B.
• Wear comfortable shoes. Paths can be muddy, and you'll walk further than you expect.
• Pick somewhere with a café nearby. A hot drink makes a natural end to the date. Check opening times before you go.
• Choose busy paths. Meet somewhere public and make your own way there. Our guide to dating safely has more.

If you're still looking for someone to share a walk with, we'd love to see you at Go London Dating. You can find your borough and take a look around at your own pace.

• walks
• autumn
• london