Hyde Park is not only one of the largest parks in London, it’s considered to be one of the greatest city parks in the world. With 142 hectares and over 4,00 trees, along with meadows, flowers and gardens, it’s the perfect escape in the center of London. Bring a picnic and enjoy the serenity, or try one of these activities:
Photo sourced from Leonard Bentley via Flickr
Speaker’s Corner: Head to the famous Speaker’s Corner on a Sunday, when you can hear various orators. Public speaking, debates and discussions are allowed here, a traditional site for voicing opinions since the 1872 Regulation Act.
Grab Lunch: There are two lakeside restaurants within the park, perfect for a romantic date, along with numerous cafes, vendors and other dining establishments.
Swim: Go for a dip in Serpatine Lake, one of London’s best outdoor swimming pools. There’s even an annual Christmas Day ‘Peter Pan’ cup if you’re brave enough to wade in the frigid temperatures!
Cycle: The Royal Parks are great routes to go for a ‘green ride’, especially because cycling is allowed on nearly all of the roads and there are designated cycling routes. RoyalParks.org recommends the following: Alexandra Gate to Hyde Park Corner, along Rotten Row; from Hyde Park Corner along Serpentine Road; from Victoria Gate along North Carriage Drive towards Speakers’ Corner and along the Broad Walk.
Ride Horses: It doesn’t get more off-the-beaten-track than a horse ride through Central London! There are numbers of group rides and individual lessons fit for any level that will take riders on horseback past gorgeous garden views. Hyde Park Stables is one of the more popular options, and built in 1835, it’s the oldest public stable in Central London.
Ice Skate: During the winter months, get bundled up for a fun and romantic evening of ice-skating. Booking in advance is highly recommended, as this magical experience gets crowded quick. For 2014, the rink is open between 21st of November to the 4th of January, from 10am to 10pm daily. Learn more at the Winter Wonderland website.
If you’re looking for a place to stay nearby, the Grand Royale London Hyde Park Hotel is a great choice. Edward VII first commissioned the building as a private residence for his mistress, but today it is a lovely building oozing charm and style, and one of the most romantic accommodation options in town.
Hyde Park opens from 5:00 am until midnight all year round.
