Hyde Park

Kid Tips

School-Age Kids: Children up to age 12 are allowed in the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground in Kensington Garden and there's an upside down tree in the Rose Garden that kids love to crawl underneath.

Pre-Teens & Teens: Older kids will love renting boats and paddling on the Serpentine. There's also a free modern art museum, the Serpentine Gallery, in Kensington Garden.

Planning Notes

• Go to Kensington Gardens. Hyde Park is separated from Kensington Gardens, the former hunting grounds of Prince Albert, by West Carriage Driver. If the weather's nice and you have the time, cross the road and explore the paths — including one that takes you to the Peter Pan Statue (if you get turned around, by the signs, there are large directories at several of the entrances. Older kids might enjoy a visit to Kensington Palace, where Queen Victoria reigned.
• Enjoy free events. There are all sorts of free events in the park, including a tree walk, a bat walk, and art and architecture talk. Since space is limited, you usually have to reserve in advance. Check the Web site for more information.
• Hire a deck chair. The green and white striped deck chairs throughout the park are not free. Someone will come by and collect the nominal fee if you sit in them. Or you can do like the locals and bring your own blanket.

Just the Facts

Hours: 5 a.m until midnight daily

Fees: Free

Recommended Time: 2 - 4 hours

Related Vacations

Doubledecker Buses, Medieval Castles, a Royal Vacation for All

London, England

A window into America's past, London is a friendly, forthright, lively...