London: Activities

• paddle boating

  If you feel like a paddle on the water, hire a pedalo for an hour or two and go boating on the Serpentine in Hyde Park.

• cycling

  You can hire a bike practically anywhere in the city, although if you're planning to ride in traffic you might be taking your life in your hands. It may be wiser to stick to the parks.

• swimming

  North of the centre, Highgate Ponds on Hampstead Heath offer open-air swimming all year round. Otherwise, take a dip in Ironmonger Row Baths or the Art Deco Porchester Spa.

• horse riding

  Aristocrats of the 19th century used to promenade on horseback along the paths of Hyde Park. If you want to follow in their hoofprints, steeds can be hired by the hour.

• gym

  Many hotels in London lack gym facilities. If you're missing your work-out try the popular Oasis Sports Centre in Covent Garden, which has everything a healthy heart desires.

• roller skating

  Join packs of roller-blade enthusiasts in Hyde Park - every Friday evening there's a communal skate starting out at Wellington Arch.

• walking

  It's good for the constitution, and London's parks - especially Hyde Park and Regents Park - are delightful settings for a stroll.

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