Featured Hotels Near New river path, short scenic riverside walk

The Old Vicarage Hotel is a top choice located just a 10-minute walk from the New River Path, offering a perfect blend of Victorian charm and modern amenities. The hotel provides complimentary bicycle rental, ideal for exploring the scenic riverside trail. Nearby, you'll find hidden cafés and art galleries, creating a vibrant cultural atmosphere. With 24-hour room service and free Wi-Fi, it's an excellent option for families and couples seeking comfort and convenience while enjoying London’s green spaces.

From the New River Path, a 15-minute walk leads to Highbury & Islington Station, where you can catch the London Overground or Victoria Line trains. A journey of just 20 minutes brings you to central London. This route avoids traffic congestion and offers scenic views of urban greenery along the way. Use an Oyster Card or contactless payment for affordable and seamless travel. Check real-time schedules via the Transport for London (TfL) App before departure to ensure a smooth commute.

The New River Path offers more than walking—experience canoeing, guided eco-tours, and seasonal events like riverside picnics and nature photography workshops. The path is ideal for spotting ducks, moorhens, and kingfishers amid native flora. Bring binoculars and a camera for wildlife viewing, and wear comfortable footwear. Interactive bilingual signs (English and Chinese) provide insights into the canal’s history and conservation efforts, enriching the educational value of your stroll.

Yes, Highbury Park is just a 5-minute walk away and perfect for families. It features a children’s playground, open lawns, and a small animal enclosure ideal for kids to explore. Weekly events like family workshops and outdoor concerts create a joyful atmosphere. Nearby cafés offer healthy snacks and drinks. The path itself is safe, flat, well-lit, and clearly marked—ideal for parents strolling with children while enjoying riverside views and seasonal blooms.

Visit The Tea Room at Highbury, a charming tearoom tucked in a historic alleyway. They serve traditional English afternoon tea with tiered trays, homemade scones, and artisanal biscuits. Their tea blends use locally sourced milk and seasonal fruits, paired with Earl Grey and classic black tea for rich flavor. The cozy, sunlit interior features garden views through large windows. Reservations are recommended—especially on weekends when it fills quickly. Vegan and gluten-free options are also available, catering to diverse dietary needs.

Constructed in 1609 by engineer Edmund Dickinson, the New River was originally built to address London’s water shortage, diverting fresh water from Pond Lane in Hertfordshire to North London over a 38-kilometer route. Though no longer used for supply, its heritage remains intact as one of England’s oldest artificial waterways. Along the path, visitors can still see stone-lined banks and historic bridges, with parts designated as Grade II Listed Sites. Today, it serves as a vital green corridor and a cherished cultural landmark for those exploring London’s past.