Hyde Park
Hyde Park
view website
The Park Office Rangers Lodge
Hyde Park
London, W2 2UH, England
011-44-20-7298-2000
Good-for-Kids Rating
Park
Historical Landmark
Nature Center
Ice Skating
Bicycling
Boating
Horseback Riding
Live Music Venue
Boat Ride
Hyde Park Description
The caw caw of gulls, the honk of fretful geese, Hyde Park is full of wildlife, smiling cyclists, and impossibly small children on rollerblades. Reminiscent of the Boston Commons, the park feels familiarly American. "It's the awesomest!" said one 5-year-old. Children can explore the rose gardens, splash their feet in the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain on a hot day, and stroll along the banks of the glittering waters of the Serpentine or rent boats to paddle on the .
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, EnglandA window into America's past, London is a friendly, forthright, lively...



