Russia Dock Woodland

This is the best kept secret in London. So much so, that even many local residents don’t know about this park, hidden away in the leafy Rotherhithe peninsula.
So what’s so special about Russia Dock Woodland?
The history, where this whole area served as the London docks, accepting imports from across Europe, and the world. During the war, this area was pretty badly hit and was eventually redeveloped as a mid-​density residential area.
But Rotherhithe, a very underrated part of London, is slap-​bang in between the glistening skyscrapers or Canary Wharf and the hustle-​bustle of London Bridge. For whatever reason, Rotherhithe managed to carve itself as a quiet, scenic and pretty part of the city, where rental prices haven’t quite veered into the ridiculous.
The centre of this peninsula is filled up with Russia Dock Woodland, or as it’s also known, Stave Hill Ecological Park. It’s very easy to get lost in here, but it won’t be long before you work out your bearings — there are docks all around the park, and the centre of the woodland boasts it’s ‘piece de resistance’.
Stave Hill.
After all the rubble had been gathered together, it was all dumped into an artificial hill, which became Stave Hill. And this unique location means you’re right between Canary Wharf, and the City of London. Climb the steps up this hill, to be afford one of the best views anywhere in the city. And there’s even a great iron-​wrought model of the local area.
And the best part?
This isn’t a tourist honeytrap. It’s not even overrun with locals. Most the time when you come up here, it’ll be completely empty, and you’ll be King of the Hill!

Russia Dock woodland is one of my favourite nature-​y places in London. I cannot describe how happy I was, the first time I got lost jogging and stumbled upon this gorgeous maze of pretty paths and perfect puppy (or rabbit) walking areas! There are sections of wilderness and mini nature reserves to encourage wildlife… along with larger green areas (perfect for picnics) and even a hill that looks over Canary Wharf, the city and gives fantastic views all the way over to the London eye!
There are entrances to the woodland from all sides; near Greenland docks, from several spots along the Thames pathway, near Canada Water station and from all the surrounding suburban-​ish housing that surrounds it. Kids and dogs that live in this area are really lucky to have such a fun place to play!
Highlights:
* Stave Hill — the artificial hill in the middle of the woodlands with fantastic views over London. It’s a good place to watch the sun rise or set. We watched the Tornado and Eurofighter from up here during the Royal wedding in 2011.
* Rabbit walking (!) — A couple of times when I have met friends here for a picnic, we have seen someone walking their pet rabbit in the park. It is sooo cute!
* Paths to wander around and get lost in — There are loads of teeny paths through the woodlands which make this a fantastic place to explore. I don’t think I have ever been through the same way twice!

This is still largely a secret oasis in grossly underrated Rotherhithe. Several local residents are not aware of this mini ecological reserve. I have lived here, just behind the Park, for the last 4 years now and I wasn’t quite that aware. Shame that is.
RDW works wonderfully for runners, bikers, readers, and picnickers. A trail ending on the cleanly paved path parallel to Quebec Way (which used to be the Grand Surrey Canal) will lead you to Redriff Road. There is an underpass that takes you to the other side of Redriff Road onto Greenland docks where you can run/​walk around the quays.
It is definitely advisable for first time explorers (unless you’re pretty good with directions, navigation etc) to go with a map, because it could be somewhat confusing if you’re new to this neighborhood.
Overall, this is very different from any park in London. There is a constant change of horizon, a lot more exciting than Hyde Park, although Regents Park is still my favorite.