London, Ontario is known as the “Forest City” for good reason. With the Thames River winding through it and an extensive network of parks and pathways, the city offers countless opportunities to enjoy nature. One of the most scenic and accessible areas lies along the South Branch of the Thames Valley Parkway (TVP) at Pottersburg Park. This section of the pathway connects neighborhoods, parks, and landmarks, providing residents and visitors with a chance to explore London on foot, by bike, or even on rollerblades.
A Key Part of the Thames Valley Parkway
The Thames Valley Parkway is London’s premier multi-use pathway system, stretching for more than 40 km throughout the city. Pottersburg Park lies along the South Branch, which runs from the city’s southeast end toward downtown and beyond. From this trailhead, visitors can connect to major destinations including:
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Wellington Road (5.8 km)
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The Forks / Ivey Park (8.0 km)
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Gibbons Park (9.9 km)
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Western University (11.7 km)
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Springbank Park (13.8 km)
This connectivity makes Pottersburg Park an ideal starting point for longer rides or walks through the city.
Trails for Everyone
The TVP at Pottersburg is designed for all ages and abilities. The paved pathways are smooth and wide enough for walkers, joggers, cyclists, and inline skaters. Yellow or orange-marked paths on the map indicate sections that are wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all trail users.
Wayfinding signs, maps, and distance markers make it easy to navigate, whether you’re planning a short stroll or a long-distance bike ride. Benches and shaded spots along the way provide resting points for families and seniors, while playgrounds and green spaces make the area welcoming for children.
Safety and Etiquette on the Path
The Thames Valley Parkway is one of London’s busiest recreational amenities, so safety and courtesy are key. Signs at Pottersburg Park remind users of a few important rules:
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Pedestrians always have the right of way.
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Cyclists should alert others when passing (using a bell, horn, or voice).
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Joggers and skaters should avoid running in groups that block the path.
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Pets must be leashed, except in designated off-leash areas.
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Trail users should wear reflective clothing at night and carry identification.
By following these simple guidelines, the park remains enjoyable and safe for everyone.
Nature Meets City
Pottersburg Park sits in a unique position along the South Branch of the Thames River, where natural beauty meets urban life. The trail passes through environmentally significant areas, where local plants and wildlife thrive. Birds, squirrels, and even the occasional deer can be spotted, while native plants line the pathway.
The river itself provides a constant backdrop, reminding trail users of London’s deep connection to the Thames. The TVP here is not just a recreational trail — it’s an ecological corridor, linking natural habitats across the city.
A Hub for Recreation and Community
Beyond the pathway, Pottersburg Park is a community hub. Green spaces allow for picnics and family gatherings, while nearby playgrounds and recreational areas make it an ideal destination for kids. Cyclists often use the park as a meeting point before longer rides, and walkers enjoy the well-maintained paths for daily exercise.
Because it connects seamlessly to other parks and neighborhoods, Pottersburg also reduces the need for cars, encouraging more sustainable forms of transportation across the city.
Linking London Together
One of the most remarkable features of the Thames Valley Parkway is how it links together London’s major parks. Starting at Pottersburg, you can travel across the city without leaving the pathway system, passing through some of London’s most iconic green spaces:
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The Forks and Ivey Park (historic heart of the city)
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Gibbons Park (family-friendly with pools and playgrounds)
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Western University (a cultural and academic hub)
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Springbank Park (London’s largest park, home to Storybook Gardens)
This makes Pottersburg more than just a local park — it’s a gateway to the entire city’s outdoor network.
For Locals and Visitors
For locals, Pottersburg Park provides daily access to exercise, recreation, and relaxation. For visitors, it’s a chance to experience London from the ground up, traveling along the Thames River and discovering the city’s parks, bridges, and neighborhoods. Whether you’re a runner training for a marathon, a family looking for weekend fun, or a cyclist seeking a long ride, Pottersburg offers something for everyone.
Conclusion
Pottersburg Park and the South Branch of the Thames Valley Parkway represent the best of London’s identity as the Forest City. Accessible, scenic, and interconnected, the park is more than a trailhead — it’s a starting point for adventure, community, and exploration.
From here, you can walk, bike, or roll your way through some of the city’s most beloved spaces, all while enjoying the beauty of the Thames River. Pottersburg isn’t just a park — it’s a reminder that London’s greatest treasures are found in the blend of nature and community.