Hackney has claimed the top spot for the most Green Flag parks in London in 2026, retaining its 2025 title with a record-breaking 34 Green Flags. The borough beat Westminster, which came second with 33 Green Flags, and Southwark in third place with 30.
Green Flag Awards recognise best parks
The awards, run by the charity Keep Britain Tidy, recognise the UK's best parks and green spaces. Independent judges assess litter management, safety, footpaths, facilities and signage. Hackney's additional Green Flag this year came from Clapton Common, which received accreditation for the first time following a new play area and nature recovery work.
Popular parks in Hackney that received the accolade include London Fields, Clissold Park, Daubney Fields, Well Street Common, Abney Park, Hackney Downs, De Beauvoir Square and Hackney Marshes.
Councillor praises parks team
Councillor Jacob Cable, Cabinet Member for Climate, Clean Air, Energy and Transport, called the achievement 'a credit to the hard work of Hackney’s parks team' alongside 'the many parks user groups, volunteers and partners whose care and dedication make our parks a haven for nature and residents alike'.
Westminster and Southwark follow
Westminster, home to Hyde Park, St. James's Park and Green Park, secured 33 Green Flags. Newly awarded in 2026 was Paddington Street Gardens in Marylebone. Southwark took third place with 30 Green Flags, including Belair Park, Bermondsey Square Gardens and Nunhead Cemetery.
Full ranking of London boroughs
The complete list of London boroughs by number of Green Flag parks in 2026: Hackney (34), Westminster (33), Southwark (30), Lambeth (29), Hammersmith & Fulham (26), Richmond upon Thames (25), Ealing (23), Hounslow (20), Lewisham (18), Havering (16), Islington (15), Wandsworth (15), Tower Hamlets (14), Greenwich (13), Sutton (13), Kensington & Chelsea (13), Merton (11), Haringey (10), Harrow (10), Bromley (9), Redbridge (9), Barking & Dagenham (7), Croydon (6), Brent (4), Barnet (3), Waltham Forest (3), Kingston upon Thames (3), Bexley (1), Enfield (1).
