London: The Coolest Skate Parks

Skateboarding in London draws skaters from all around the globe and a surprising reason is the accessibility provided by the Tube. A skater of any age can quickly visit most of the city’s iconic skating spots with a day travelcard, which is not something you can do in every city. Here are a few spots you’ll want to check out if you’re planning on a good old skate sesh with your mates.

Victoria Park Skate Park

The main feature of this skatepark is the bowl and it also has a couple of banks and an open end pool for the skater who is not quite ready for the main bowl.

This is a great venue as it’s good for both beginners and more experienced skaters. Being located in Victoria Park is a plus as it doesn’t feel like noisy London and you can chill in the grass under the sun when you want to take a break.

House of Vans

You can find this skatepark under the arches in Waterloo. It’s free to use but you have to book in advance so they can limit how many people use the park at any one time.

It’s perfect for rainy days as it’s undercover. You’ll find a bowl, a mini ramp, and a street-style section.

The House of Vans also has a café and a gig venue.

Mile End Skate Park

This spot is perfect for the street skater, so if you are into grinds and wallrides this is where you need to go. The park is outside but for rainy days there is an indoor section with two wooden mini ramps.

There’s also a skate shop which sells drinks and skateboarding equipment. The park is relatively flat which is good for practising your flips.

Southbank Skate Park

This spot has been around for 40 years and it seems to be here to stay despite the rocky relationship the skaters have with the building’s owners.

It is known as the home of British skateboarding and has been a creative space not only for the average skater but also graffiti artists, musicians and BMX riders. There are some ledges, banks and a set of stairs.

An iconic spot that is not to be missed!

Stockwell Skate Park

Known as one of London’s oldest skate parks, the Stockwell site has some snake runs, a few ledges, and a half bowl.  It is outdoors and just a skate ride away from Brixton.

It is probably not the best park for the beginning skater as it takes some time to learn how the park flows.

Make sure you check out these spots next time you plan on shredding away in London. They are all free and they always have a good vibe.

 

By Dominic Luca

 

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