A Grade I listed park in London, it is one of the many Royal Parks that grace the city. In fact, it is the largest one and joins the chain that they make from the entrance of Kensington Palace through Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park, via Hyde Park Corner and Green Park towards the main entrance of Buckingham Palace. It is 350 acres and is full to the brim with space to enjoy countless activities. Its Speakers Corner has been the centre of free speech since 1872 (suffragettes, Chartists and Stop the War Coalition have all protested here) and there have been countless music concerts in the park that have ranged from Pink Floyd to The Rolling Stones and Queen, and then huge events like the Live 8 concert of 2005.
It is a pivotal destination on any traveller’s list. Its many acres are to be explored when possible and there are tennis courts, football fields and cycle paths. It is also full of sculptures and monuments including the Wellington Arch, 7 July Memorial, Rima, The Cavalry Memorial, Diana Princess of Wales memorial and others. Aside from all of these things, there is enough space to walk for the whole day, relax and read a book under a tree if needs be (or kick a ball around).
As this is an essential part of the London experience, and due to its sheer size, there are plenty of London Underground stations that are near to corners of the park. These include Hyde Park Corner, Knightsbridge, Queensway, Lancaster Gate and Marble Arch.
History of Hyde Park
Hyde Park has a history that’s wrapped up in royalty. The park itself was established in 1536 by Henry VIII when he took land from Westminster Abbey and to be used as a hunting ground. Opening to the public in 1637, it soon became a popular attraction. Several duels took place in Hyde Park throughout this period. These would often involve members of the nobility trying to aggravate each other over trivial things like land and love.
The park eventually became a place for freedom of speech thanks to the Speaker’s Corner that was set up in 1872. Demonstrations by chartists, reformers, suffragettes, peace movements, women’s rights groups and the LGBT community have taken place here. In fact, one of the largest protests in history, the opposition marches to the Iraq War in 2003, generated unprecedented crowds marching from the corner, or meeting up beforehand. This was trumped by anti-Brexit marches in 2019.
Music has played an important role in the history of the park. From the late 20th century, many musicians like the Rolling Stones, Queen and many more used the many acres to play a few sets. Other major musical events such as Live 8 in 2005, and the annual Hyde Park Winter Wonderland have also appeared on the calendar and drawn in crowds. Even the 2018 World Cup brought many frantic Londoners into the park as they gathered around the live stream of England battling it out for the title.
Business Life in Hyde Park
The business world doesn’t centre around Hyde Park, but the public space is a remedy for the hectic daily lives of corporates. Many can be seen in the park going for long runs in the mornings and evenings, attending an event on the weekend or just sunbathing when the sun comes out. Given that, there are businesses around the park’s exterior. Having a view over the park in a work office is simply to die for.
Our apartments near Hyde Park can also be part of business life. Their fully equipped and furnished spaces are the ideal companion for any short or long term corporate trip in London. Stylish interiors and essential amenities are always present to complement the vibrant life that walks in and around Hyde Park. The fully fitted kitchens are another way to enjoy healthy food and the cosy bed linen ensures the perfect night’s sleep so they are fully rested for the early commute. But when they don’t want to, they can simply use the free Wi-Fi in the apartment to work remotely from home and utilise the awesome space that the apartment provides.
The apartments are also close to the tube stations near Hyde Park so our guests can travel to and from the living space with relative ease. No more will they have to suffer incredibly long commutes or exhausting walks to their apartment in bad weather. Quite literally, their lavish serviced apartment will be right where it needs to be to offer comfort and convenience at every turn.
Where to Stay in Hyde Park
Of course, there are few, if any, properties within the grounds of Hyde Park itself, so those wishing to stay in the vicinity will need to consider which side will better suit their needs. The area around Hyde Park Corner is arguably the most desirable, as this is immediately next to the Hyde Park as well as St James’s Park but also straddles Belgravia, Mayfair, and Westminster - which between them play host to many of London’s major attractions. Similarly, the west side of the park borders Kensington, which is known as London’s museum quarter thanks to its abundance of incredible institutions. Finally, to the north of the park are the neighbourhoods of Bayswater and Paddington, which offer a slightly quieter, more residential atmosphere.
Facts About Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of the most famous city green spaces in the world, setting the standard for other cities and playing home to numerous events throughout the year. The park also has a long and distinguished history, with royal connections dating back to the 16th century.
Below are a few interesting facts about Hyde Park:
- Hyde Park was created in 1536 by Henry VIII for hunting.
- Speakers’ Corner is a notorious site for public speeches and debates, has been a popular spot for protests in the 1800s.
- The Achilles Statue in the southeast corner of the park is made from 33 tonnes of bronze, with all the metal being sourced from cannons captured in battle by the Duke of Wellington
- The Serpentine isn’t a natural lake. Queen Caroline, the wife of King George II, had it constructed so that the park would have an open pool of water that looked natural but was not.
- There are over 4,000 trees in the park.
- The only home shared by all four Beatles is near Hyde Park at 57 Green Street.
Things to Do in Hyde Park
Hyde Park is a centre of culture and unofficially known as London’s museum district. As such, it offers a huge amount of options when it comes to days out. In fact, many of London’s top attractions are within the borough or located within walking distance, meaning anyone staying locally will be spoilt for choice when it comes to things to see and do in Hyde Park.
Does anything happen in Hyde Park?
Hyde Park truly comes alive in the summer months, with numerous concerts and festivals held through June, July, and August. Of course with so many people visiting the park, there is always a fantastic atmosphere, even if no events are being held. Whilst there are fewer things going on in the colder months, the park still plays home to the notorious Winter Wonderland.
What are the top things to do near Hyde Park?
In the summertime, simply exploring Hyde Park and spending time outdoors is one of the top things to do in London - especially if there is a show or event happening. The park is also located between some of the city’s most iconic locations, each of which offers a different flavour of the city - whether it be the iconic landmarks of Westminster or the incredible museums and galleries of Kensington.
What are some free things to do in Hyde Park?
Hyde Park itself, as well as the Serpentine gallery, are completely free to enter. Further to the park itself, most of the incredible museums of neighbouring Kensington also offer free admission, meaning the area around Hyde Park is one of the best locations in London for anyone on a budget.
What is there to do in the evening in Hyde Park?
Hyde Park itself is open every day until midnight, so it presents a great opportunity for an evening stroll. There are also numerous bars, pubs, and restaurants surrounding the ground, offering plenty of choices when it comes to spending an evening on the town. Finally, Hyde Park is also close to London’s West End, which offers a huge variety of shows and performances.
Places to Visit in Hyde Park
Hyde Park occupies an area of London that is densely packed with iconic attractions. As such, anyone staying locally will find that many famous museums, historic landmarks, and fashionable social spots. Of course, the park itself also offers an abundance of things to see and do, with regular events and concerts held within the grounds throughout the year. Below is a list of essential places to visit in Hyde Park and the surrounding area.
- The Natural History Museum - one of London’s most popular museums, dedicated to the history of the natural world and housed in a stunning Romanesque building.
- Kensington Palace - stunning royal residence, with highlights including Queen Victoria's childhood rooms, the King's State Apartments, and the famous Sunken Garden.
- The Serpentine Gallery - one of London’s most popular art galleries, showcasing work from historic and contemporary artists.
- The Science Museum - another popular museum, charting the history of scientific endeavour and full of interactive exhibits.
- The Victoria and Albert Museum - the largest museum of applied and decorative arts and design in the world, founded in 1852 and named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
- The Royal College of Music - London’s premier music training college also hosts regular concerts and performances for the public.
- The Saatchi Gallery - modern art gallery founded by advertising mogul Charles Saatchi, also hosts temporary exhibits of international treasures.
Places to Eat in Hyde Park
Given its location among London’s most affluent and desirable neighbourhoods, it is hardly surprising that the area around Hyde Park offers an abundance of great places to eat. Visitors will find they also have plenty of choices when it comes to the type of cuisine on offer, as the area offers everything from high-end fine dining to take away food from around the world.
Some of the most popular fine dining restaurants in the vicinity include:
- Galvin at Windows.
- Dinner by Heston Blumenthal.
- The Lanesborough.
- Seven Park Place by William Drabble.
- Mosimann's.
- The Restaurant at the Capital.
Of course, there is more to Hyde Park dining than fine dining - the area also offers plenty of great pubs and bistros, serving excellent menus in a more casual setting. Some highlights include:
- The Grazing Goat.
- Rose & Crown.
- The Victoria.
- The Alfred Tennyson.
- The Champion.
Street Food in Hyde Park
With so many people flocking to Hyde Park to enjoy the outdoors, it is of little surprise that there is plenty of street food on offer in the vicinity. Within the grounds of the park itself, there are several refreshment points offering various snacks and sandwiches. They are available in various locations around Hyde Park including Serpentine Road, the playground and Hyde Park Corner. Outside of the park itself, there are also several vendors offering everything from seasonal snacks to world cuisine. Some of the highlights include:
- Cabbie Shelter.
- Tamal UK.
- Summer Food Market.
- Calcutta Canteen.
Shopping in Hyde Park
Hyde Park is the perfect area for those who are looking to do a little shopping during their stay in London. Several of London’s famous shopping zones are just a short walk away, including Oxford Street, Bond Street, and Regents Street, and the park’s central location means it is also close to some of the cities shopping malls and plazas - many within walking distance and others that are just a short tube ride away. Some of the best shopping facilities near Hyde Park include:
- Westfield London, Shepherd’s Bush (The capital’s largest shopping centre).
- Kings Mall Shopping Centre.
- Kensington Arcade.
- W12 Shopping Centre.
- Broadway Shopping Centre.
Transportation in Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of the most popular attractions in London, as well as being in a central location. It is therefore exceptionally well served by London’s public transport infrastructure, with trains, buses and the London Underground connecting Hyde Park to Greater London as well as the wider UK. London Paddington is the closest overground rail station, offering direct links to other stations and connections across the UK. However, most people looking to travel within London will find the tube is the better option.
Underground stations nearby include:
- Hyde Park.
- Kensington Olympia.
- High Street Kensington.
- Gloucester Road.
- West Kensington.
- Earl’s Court.
London’s Oyster card system is the most cost-effective way of paying for public transport - particularly for those planning to make regular trips around the city - a single trip to zone 1-2 will cost £2.40 whilst the equivalent single ticket is £4.90. Similarly, a zone 1 - 4 Travelcard will cost £13.10, whilst the Oyster is capped at £10.10. The card can be used on buses, trains and the London Underground.
Weather in Hyde Park
Hyde Park is of course hugely popular during the summer months. Weather in London throughout July and August is typically dry and warm without being too hot, though August may see temperatures exceed 30 degrees. The months of June and September are also popular for older travellers or those without families as they are slightly cooler and fall outside of the school holidays. Winters are usually fairly cold, with freezing temperatures possible in December, January, and February. British weather is, however, notoriously unpredictable, and whilst there are rarely extreme weather conditions, it isn’t unheard of to experience sunny days in winter, or rainfall in August.
