Bulbs will soon be in bloom, animals are emerging with new arrivals, and seasonal style is filling our streets – here’s what to look out for this spring in St James’s.

Spot wildlife in St James’s Park

You know it’s spring when you spot newly hatched cygnets following their mothers in orderly lines and parakeets are darting across the sky in flashes of green. See these feathery residents and more at St James’s Park, where there’s plenty of wildlife to discover, from ducks and geese to inquisitive squirrels.

Seek out blossom and blooms

Wander into blooming glory and find a host of golden daffodils (or crocuses, tulips or cherry blossom) in St James’s this season. You’ll notice pops of colour everywhere in the neighbourhood, but St James’s Park and Green Park boast some of the prettiest displays in London. If that’s inspired you, pick up a bunch of pretty flowers from Bulbous to take home.

Browse spring collections

The arrival of spring brings with it new collections from contemporary and heritage brands across St James’s. Browse Dover Street Market for new arrivals from designer streetwear brands, revitalise your wardrobe with new season picks from Sunspel, or accessorise with one of SageBrown’s colourful leather bags. Get a fresh look at the season with new specs from Cubitts and step into spring with new shoes from Grenson. For even more spring staples, explore our list of shops.

Check out colourful window displays

As spring gets into full swing, look out for shop fronts celebrating seasonal highlights – whether floral displays or creations marking seasonal celebrations such as Easter. Grab a snap for Instagram, but make sure you venture beyond these eye-catching designs for all sorts of springtime treats inside.

People-watch at alfresco restaurants

As it starts to warm up, grab a table at one of St James’s alfresco eateries and enjoy a lunch or dinner while watching the world go by. Join the regulars at Franco’s, enjoy all-day dining at 45 Jermyn Street and Fallow, or savour a scrumptious plate of pasta at ‘O ver in the heart of St James’s Market.

Grab a coffee to go

With the wintry chill gone, it’s time to take your caffeine hit outside – pick up a cup and cake from Ole & Steen in St James’s Market, Redemption Roasters, Compane, or The Gentlemen Baristas. All that’s left to do is to sit on a bench in St James’s Square, stroll in St James’s Park, or perch on a step to study the statues at Waterloo Place. If coffee’s not your bag, check out these places for hot chocolate.

Breathe in the spring air

There are plenty of peaceful spots for contemplation, meditation and relaxation on a spring day in central London. Whether a quiet corner of St James’s Square, a deckchair in Green Park or some forest bathing among the trees in St James’s Park, you’re sure to find the ideal location – check out these serene spaces for more ideas.

Enjoy foodie treats this spring

It’s not just new animal arrivals this spring… central London’s restaurant scene has a newbie with Fowl - brainchild of the Fallow team, the menu celebrates the humble chicken from beak-to-feet. For your next go-to cafe spot, try Volonté and Farmer J. Meanwhile, Papa L’s Kitchen is offering up a new spring menu featuring African fusion plates, including Stone Bass with vegetables and saffron fish broth.

See more of St James’s this spring with these central London walks or check out our tips for an alfresco day out in the area.