Dulwich Park, South London

Despite a recent multi-million pound makeover using money from the National Lottery, Dulwich Park is still not picturesque. Although it has grand stone gateways, many mature trees and shrubs, a central lake and tasteful furniture, the park is just too flat to be much more than functional. Hordes of children swarm over the sizeable playground, play football on the wide open spaces or go for a spin on the pedal-powered go-karts (available for hire) before refuelling at the busy cafe. Head for the far north corner for peace and quiet and a pleasing view across the park and up to Dulwich Woods. 6/10