If you’re planning a trip to London, there’s no doubt that Hyde Park should be on your list of must-visit destinations. This stunning 350-acre park is located in the heart of the city and offers visitors an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, with its lush greenery, tranquil lakes, and picturesque gardens. Let me take you on a walk through London’s Hyde Park.
We’re starting the excursion In the northeast corner of the park, near Marble Arch Underground station. One of the most unique and interesting features of Hyde Park is Speaker’s Corner. This is an area where people are free to speak their minds and express their views on any topic. It’s a fascinating place to visit, where you can sometimes hear passionate orators debate everything from politics to religion, and everything in between. The Speaker’s Corner is one of the first things you’ll learn about the Park if you open a guidebook. In reality, though, there’s nothing distinctive about that place and if you visit the Park at a time when no one is there to preach their views, you won’t even realise where the Speaker’s Corner is without looking at the map, even if you stand right in the middle of it.
One of the most popular attractions in the park is the Serpentine Lake, which is a great spot for boating and swimming during the summer months. Visitors can also take a stroll around the lake and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding landscape or watch the resident geese and swans relax in the shallow waters. The Serpentine is also home to the Serpentine Gallery, a popular contemporary art space that features exhibitions from some of the world’s most exciting artists.
In the summer months, it’s worth visiting Hyde Park’s Rose Garden. The vibrancy of colours and scents will keep you stunned for a long time. It’s a perfect place to sit down and relax, taking in the beauty of the surroundings.
After exploring the Rose Garden, I suggest heading to the Italian Gardens. This beautiful area of the park, created in the 1860s, is full of fountains, statues, and perfectly manicured lawns. It’s such a peaceful place to sit and relax, you could spend hours there. There’s a small cafe in this area too if you fancy taking a break whilst sipping on an iced latte.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Hyde Park is the Albert Memorial. This beautiful monument was erected in memory of Prince Albert and is a true masterpiece of Victorian design. Visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn the monument and learn about the life and legacy of this famous royal. If you wonder what the fancy building opposite the statue is – it’s Royal Albert Hall, a popular venue hosting an array of concerts and cultural events throughout the year.
Kensington Gardens, which are located on the west side of Hyde Park, are another must-see attraction. These beautiful gardens were once the private gardens of Kensington Palace and are now open to the public. Here, visitors can take a leisurely stroll among the stunning flowers and trees, and even catch a glimpse of the palace itself. The recently opened sunken garden – in memory of the late Princess Diana – are particularly beautiful in the warm months. This historic Kensington Palace was once the residence of many members of the British royal family, including Queen Victoria. Now, visitors can tour the staterooms, which are adorned with priceless works of art and furniture, and learn about the fascinating history of this iconic building. If you fancy visiting the Palace, keep in mind it’s a paid entry. You can check out the opening times and ticket prices on the official website: https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace.
While exploring Hyde Park, keep an eye out for the parakeets that call the park home. These green-coloured birds are a unique sight in a city park and add to the Park’s vibrant atmosphere. Visitors should also look out for the Park’s resident squirrels, which are friendly and always happy to pose for a photo. But watch out! They’re so used to being spoiled with nuts and seeds that they’ll demand some from you as well! I’ve had squirrels climb up my legs demanding attention. It’s not for the faint-hearted.
Hyde Park is a true oasis in the heart of London and is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the stresses of city life and reconnect with nature. From the stunning Serpentine and Kensington Gardens to the iconic Albert Memorial and beautiful Italian Gardens, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful park. If you’re visiting London, make sure to find time for a stroll through Hyde Park.
PRACTICAL INFO ABOUT HYDE PARK
Nearest stations: Marble Arch, Lancaster Gate, Queensway, Hyde Park Corner.
Size: large. Good for a very long walk.
Accessibility: good. Hard surface pavements and no steps.
Public toilets: yes, in a few places. Contactless payment to enter, around 20p.
Cafes: yes, in a few places.
Wildlife: waterfowl, parakeets, squirrels.
Business factor: it gets very crowded, especially on weekends.
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Alphe's Corner 
Hi Alphe, it’s nice to see you again. I would love to walk in this big, beautiful park, it looks very inviting. Be well! 😊🇬🇧
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