What was once a private hunting ground for royalty is now one of eight Royal Park’s in London. From lush gardens, never-ending greenery, and trails that transport you away from the hustle and bustle of London, Hyde Park is simply spectacular. Aside from its memorials, stunning views, and lake snaking between the trails, Hyde Park also allows for open water swimming, boating, bicycling (on designated paths) and horse riding.

Hyde Park Fountains with the Serpentine behind.

A big green rectangle that consists of Hyde Park measures 2 km wide and 1 km high, surrounded by many popular London neighborhoods such as Kensington, Mayfair, Paddington, Knightsbridge and the infamous Bayswater Road, along with countless tourist hotels. Hyde Park is divvied into two parts: Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. The main difference between the two is Kensington Gardens closes at dusk everyday while Hyde Park remains open until midnight. Kensington Gardens was also a bit quieter from what I observed.

There are several different entrances to Hyde Park. There are multiple entrances along Bayswater as well as the main gate into the park known as the Black Lion Gate, conveniently located across the street from an old pub. There is also an entrance at Queensway, appropriately named Queens Gate. The Grand Entrance to the park, known as Apsley Gate, is located at Hyde Park Corner next to Apsley House.

One walking route that stood out to me amongst others was a walk around the gorgeous Serpentine Lake. From the restful lapping of the lake, the sound of the Italianate fountains subtly splashing in the background, and the warbling of wildfowl make this a peaceful jaunt. Start on the south bank of the Serpentine at the Lido Café and follow the lake east for 600m. At the east end of the lake, stay left and head 150m up to the Serpentine Bar and Kitchen. Follow the path round, with the lake on your left side.

Walk along the northern bank of the lake, passing under the Serpentine bridge and heading north along Peacock Walk. Continue towards the fountains of the formal Italian gardens at the top of the lake near Bayswater Road. When you reach the fountains, bear left again keeping the lake close on your left. You will pass the famous Peter Pan statue, donated by author JM Barrie in 1912, and continue back in the direction of the Lido Café.

Once you reach the Serpentine Bridge you’ll encounter the Princess Diana memorial fountain about 130m ahead on the right. Continue past the memorial fountain and the Lido café to end your loop at the Serpentine Bar and Kitchen. Grab a quick bite to eat there between the hours of 8am and 8pm.

Whether you’re looking to escape the city noise or find a way to unwind, Hyde Park is your destination. With happy people enjoying their time in the park, joggers whizzing by, and watching the soft ripples in the lake, Hyde Park is the epitome of relaxation.

Hyde Park Tips

Tip 1 – If you will be biking through Hyde Park be certain to use designated bike lanes. A hefty fine of 60 pounds will be doled out to rule breakers.

Tip 2 – If you find yourself exploring Hyde Park into the late hours, say past closing time, do not fret. There are exit-turnstiles at major gates.

Tip 3 – Park maps are scattered all throughout Hyde Park. Use these as a reference for trails you wish to explore and those you’d rather skip.

Tip 4 – Don’t forget to visit the nearby Buckingham Palace. Maybe you’ll even get a chance to spot the new royal baby!

Tip 5 – Paths are well marked and immaculate making it easy to make your way to various parts of London by walking through the park.

For a bevvy of running paths in London click here.

Difficulty: Easy

Total Distance: Varies

Trailhead address: London W2 2UH, United Kingdom

Hyde Park aerial view (Photo: Wikipedia)

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