The Time I Spilled the Cherry Blossom Tea.

London is peppered with millions of cherry trees and each spring they put on a magical display. From signalling the first signs of spring to showering us with pink petal confetti at the end of their blossom party, London’s cherry trees are the perfect subject to photograph. I’ve travelled the boroughs of London seeking out the best cherry blossom locations, and while I haven’t found them all, here are a few I highly recommend

Greenwich Park, Greenwich, London SE10 8QY

A fabulous location on its own that offers expansive views of London, Greenwich Park is home to Cherry Tree Avenue. Planted in the early 1950s and located on the upper ‘level’ of the park, this avenue contains 28 trees of the Prunus 'Pink Perfection' variety. With double rose-pink blossoms forming perfect pom pom blooms, Cherry Tree Avenue is always impressive.

Typically these trees flower from late April to early May.

Blithfield Street, Kensington, SW8

A residential street lined with cherry trees isn’t out of the ordinary, but Blithfield Street is a pastel dream. The houses are charming with various character elements such as wood shudders and iron Juliette balconies. This street is perfect for colour contrasting photos that highlight the blossoms against the pastel homes. This street is a short walk from High Street Kensington where you’re sure to spot photogenic trees along the route to Blithfield.

Typically these trees flower from mid April to mid May.

Stanley Crescent, Notting Hill, W11

No cherry blossom list would be complete without Notting Hill’s Stanley Crescent. This location is a favourite of fashion grammers because of its full row of trees, gorgeous backdrop, and charming cream colonnade fence. It doesn’t hurt that its located on a curved corner with parking restrictions, meaning you’re more likely to get a clear photo. These light pink, almost white cherry blossom trees are likely to be 40 or more years old and loved by Notting Hill residents and visitors alike.

Typically these trees flower early April to early May, but as of this date (28/03/2022) they are in full bloom.

Swiss Cottage Park, Camden, NW3

A short walk from Swiss Cottage Underground Station you’ll find the Swiss Cottage Library. More importantly for this blog, you’ll find a stunning display of cherry blossom trees in the Park adjacent. This is my first year at this spot and, let me assure you, it has a treasure trove of photo opportunities. Walk under the canopy of tree branches to the elevated seating of Siba Cafe and you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the tree tops.

Typically these trees bloom early April to early May. As of this date (28/03/2022) the trees are in full bloom.

The fleeting beauty of the cherry blossom means you might have to visit these locations more than once to catch them in full bloom. Don’t fret if you can’t venture to these locations, any cherry tree will do. Try standing under the tree to use the hanging branches to frame your subject. No candy coloured houses to photograph, shoot high capturing only a portion of the home to highlight the different textures. Lastly, never underestimate the impact of perfect pink blooms against the blue sky.

Let me know in the comments below if you’ve found this guide helpful or if I’ve missed your favourite spot.