When it comes to exploring London’s most picturesque parks, the verdant acres of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens spanning the heart of fashionable central London, are sure to come to mind. Read through our guide to get the most out of what’s on offer at these lush green spaces, adding so much beauty to the alluring capital city!
While Hyde Park’s tranquillity offers the perfect chance to spend a day relaxing and soaking up the sun or enjoying a British-style picnic, there’s so much to see and do at the iconic park. Reserve your stay at the luxurious Grand Royal Hotel Bayswater, only steps away from Hyde Park, the perfect townhouse accommodation with modern rooms to relax and a prime location to plan fun-filled days out with utmost ease.
The Serpentine Lake
Nestled right in the heart of Hyde Park, the iconic Serpentine Lake is known for its calm waters crisscrossed by vintage pedalos and rowing boats. Start your day out as you rent a blissful voyage and find your way around the lake’s sycamore-bordered shores. Make your way towards the west, past the Serpentine Bridge, and you’ll spot swans, loons and grey herons bathing and playing. On the western edge of the Serpentine, you’ll find terrace plants of Hyde Park’s beautiful Italian Gardens.
Italian Gardens and The Rose Garden
Explore Italian Gardens and you’ll find that it’s an elaborate mix of four main basins. The central rosettes carved in Carrara marble, the Tazza Fountain and the Portland stone are the highlights of this scenic space. If you can’t get enough of the natural beauty, make your way towards the Rose Garden, boasting a fascinating design of horns sounding one’s arrival into Hyde Park. Take in the soothing aromas of roses mixed with herbaceous planting, creating rich seasonal flower beds that are worth a visit.
Art at Serpentine Galleries
A great exploration is incomplete without art. Make the most of your stay at opulent hotels near Hyde Park and pay a visit to two free-entry art galleries located on either side of the Serpentine. Collectively known as Serpentine Galleries, on the southern side, you’ll find the original gallery converted from a charming brick tea house and the new gallery with a stunning neoclassical style, pavilion-like structure. Both galleries regularly showcase up-and-coming contemporary art by renowned artists, with a most visible emphasis on sculpture.
Kensington Palace
Moving further west, on the edge of Hyde Park, you’ll find Kensington Palace. Located only moments away from your Hyde Park accommodation, the royal residence is the perfect start to your Kensington Garden exploration. The royal palace has been the residence of the Royal Family longer than Buckingham Palace and is also the birthplace of Queen Victoria. If the royal connections are not enough to inspire a visit, you must know that the Palace is largely constructed by England’s most renowned architect, Sir Christopher Wren and so, the architecture is sure to leave you in awe.
P.S. Kensington Palace is known to host regular exhibitions, exploring the life of England’s royalty, so make sure to attend one and get a glimpse of rich British history.
Diana Memorial Playground
After Kensington Palace, it’s now time to create some more fun memories! Located in Kensington Gardens, the Diana Memorial Playground was built to signify Princess Diana’s love for children. Head inside the gated area and you’ll spot a massive wooden pirate ship, teepees, play sculptures and even a beach that you and the kids are sure to love. Situated right next to her Kensington Palace home, the free playground is visited by over 1,000,000 people every year. If you’re travelling with kids, let the little ones play, explore and let their imaginations run free. If you would like to add to the experience, enjoy a sensory trail experience here or simply sit back and enjoy the views as there is plenty of seating available.
These spellbinding experiences together make for a perfect day spent exploring London’s best Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. Follow this guide and enjoy a day full of great moments!
