Mappiman's Real Ale Walks: 18/08/25 - London's Central Parks

Monday, 18 August 2025

18/08/25 - London's Central Parks

Geocaching, Pubs, Parklife

A day in Central London. There's been a series of Geocaches placed for an event that are about to be archived. Having completed half already, it would be shame to leave gaps on the map. Psycho-geographic street meanders looking for magnetic tubs on the back of electrical boxes is not for everyone, but it kept me entertained.

I suppose you could end up anywhere in London and be close to a classic pub. I finish at Borough Tube for a return visit to the Royal Oak in Tabard Street.

Still saved in my Google Maps under "Boak and Bailey's Central London Pubs that feel like locals".

Would certainly be my local, if I lived in the Borough

A timeless Harvey's House - central bar, two rooms, hard seating. One clever home worker, having set up his workstation in the corner. If I had heard a Microsoft Teams chime, The Fear would have returned.

The beer is always in top condition in here and as much as I would have loved a Sussex Best, I decided to go for a lesser spotted Old Ale. And its not even autumn.

Sure the mild was worth experimenting with as well.

Tear myself away for an official walk. I am very close to finishing a guide book - Andrew Duncan's Favourite London Walks. I date every walk completed and this has provided inspiration since 2004. It's absolutely terrifying where time disappears to.

A 3.5 mile walk across Hyde Park, Green Park and St James Park. If I had used available subways, it is possible that the entire walk could have been completed without crossing a road.

The book is packed with facts. I'll give you one. James I opened St James Park to the population and used to keep a zoo. In it was an elephant that used to drink a gallon of wine a day.

A lovely meander, with sights at every corner. One you could do time and time again and find something new.

Here's a short collection of today's (obvious) discoveries.