St James's Park: London's Historic Royal Oasis
London’s oldest Royal Park, a serene green oasis with iconic palace views, historic charm, and a famous pelican colony in the city center.
St James's Park, the oldest Royal Park in London, offers 57 acres of beautifully manicured gardens, a large lake with diverse birdlife including famous pelicans, and iconic views of Buckingham Palace. Nestled in central London, it is bordered by historic palaces and ceremonial landmarks, providing a tranquil escape amid the city's bustle.
A brief summary to St James's Park
- London, GB
- +443000612350
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 5 am-12 am
- Tuesday 5 am-12 am
- Wednesday 5 am-12 am
- Thursday 5 am-12 am
- Friday 5 am-12 am
- Saturday 5 am-12 am
- Sunday 5 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the Blue Bridge for stunning views of Buckingham Palace and the lake.
- Catch the daily pelican feeding near Duck Island Cottage in the afternoon.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the spacious lawns during warmer months.
- Rent a deckchair from March to October for a comfortable rest while soaking in the scenery.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Tube
Take the London Underground to St James's Park station on the District or Circle lines, approximately a 5-minute walk to the park. Trains run frequently, and a single journey costs around £2.50–£4.90 depending on the time and ticket type.
-
Bus
Multiple London bus routes stop near St James's Park, including routes 11, 24, and 148. Buses run regularly throughout the day, with fares starting at £1.65 using contactless payment.
-
Walking
From Westminster or Green Park stations, it is a pleasant 10- to 15-minute walk through central London streets and landmarks to reach St James's Park. The terrain is flat and accessible for most visitors.
-
Train
Mainline train stations Charing Cross and Victoria are about 15 minutes on foot from the park. Both stations are served by multiple rail operators with fares varying by origin.
St James's Park location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St James's Park
A Royal Legacy in the Heart of London
St James's Park is London's oldest Royal Park, established in the early 17th century. Originally acquired by Henry VIII in 1532 as a deer hunting ground, it was transformed by Charles II who redesigned it with tree-lined avenues, expansive lawns, and opened it to the public. The park is uniquely framed by three royal palaces: Buckingham Palace, St James's Palace, and the Houses of Parliament. This historic setting makes it a living testament to centuries of British monarchy and ceremonial tradition.Scenic Landscapes and Iconic Views
Spanning 57 acres, the park is renowned for its impeccably maintained flower beds bursting with vibrant colors, mature trees, and a large central lake. The Blue Bridge crossing the lake offers some of the park’s most iconic views, including Buckingham Palace’s East Front, the Victoria Memorial, and glimpses of the London Eye and Big Ben in the distance. The lake itself is punctuated by two small islands, including Duck Island, a nature reserve and breeding ground for many bird species.Wildlife and the Famous Pelicans
St James's Park is a sanctuary for wildlife, especially waterfowl. Its lake is home to swans, ducks, geese, and a celebrated colony of pelicans, introduced in 1664 as a gift from the Russian ambassador to King Charles II. The pelicans are a unique attraction, often seen perched near the lake and fed daily in the afternoon near Duck Island Cottage. Birdwatchers and nature lovers find the park a delightful spot to observe diverse species in a peaceful urban setting.Ceremonial Heartbeat and Cultural Significance
The park is central to many of London's royal ceremonies and public celebrations. The Mall, a grand tree-lined avenue running alongside the park, is the route for royal processions, including the Changing of the Guard and Trooping the Colour, the monarch’s official birthday parade. Within the park, visitors encounter memorials such as the Queen Victoria Memorial and the Royal Artillery South Africa Memorial, adding layers of cultural and historical depth to the landscape.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Open daily from 5 a.m. to midnight, St James's Park welcomes visitors year-round free of charge. It offers peaceful walking paths, picnic-friendly lawns, and two cafes with scenic views of the lake and fountain. Visitors can rent deckchairs during warmer months to relax comfortably. The park also features a children’s playground and is well-suited for leisurely strolls, photography, and wildlife observation.Natural Beauty Meets Urban Tranquility
Despite its central London location, St James's Park provides a tranquil oasis where the sounds of birdsong and gentle water ripples replace city noise. Seasonal changes bring bursts of color from spring bulbs to autumn foliage, making every visit unique. The park’s blend of natural beauty, historic grandeur, and vibrant wildlife creates a captivating environment cherished by locals and tourists alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth,The Queen Mother Memorial
0.2 km
A dignified London memorial honoring King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, through iconic bronze statues and historic symbolism.
Cockpit Steps
0.3 km
Discover Cockpit Steps, a hidden historic passage in Westminster where London’s royal cockfighting past meets ghostly legend and quiet charm.
3 Carlton House Terrace
0.3 km
Elegant Grade I listed townhouse in London’s historic Carlton House Terrace, blending royal heritage with refined Georgian architecture.
St. James's Palace
0.3 km
Discover the Tudor grandeur and royal ceremonies at London’s oldest palace, the enduring heart of British monarchy.
Clive Steps
0.3 km
A Grade II-listed bronze statue commemorating the controversial architect of British imperial power in India.
Clive of India Memorial
0.3 km
A towering Edwardian statue in London commemorating Robert Clive, founder of British rule in India, embodying imperial triumph and controversy.
Guards Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the Guardsmen who fell in World War I, set amidst London’s historic ceremonial heart.
His Majesty's Treasury
0.4 km
The historic and strategic heart of the UK government’s economic policy, located in the iconic government district of Westminster, London.
Pickering Pl
0.4 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.4 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
St James's Square
0.4 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
10 Downing St
0.4 km
Discover the historic seat of British leadership, where iconic moments and political power converge behind the famous black door.
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
0.4 km
Majestic bronze tribute to King Edward VII in the heart of London’s historic Waterloo Place, blending regal artistry with imperial heritage.
10 Downing Street
0.4 km
Iconic London residence and office of the UK Prime Minister, steeped in centuries of political history and power.
Captain James Cook
0.5 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
Unmissable attractions to see
Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk
0.2 km
A serene 7-mile circular walk through London's Royal Parks, honoring Princess Diana’s life, legacy, and connection to iconic royal landmarks.
The Mall
0.2 km
A majestic royal avenue in London, The Mall connects Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace with regal charm and historic grandeur.
Charles De Gaulle Statue
0.3 km
A dignified tribute in London’s Carlton Gardens honoring Charles de Gaulle’s leadership of Free France during WWII.
The Queen's Chapel
0.3 km
Discover the elegant 17th-century Palladian chapel beside St. James’s Palace, steeped in royal history and architectural refinement.
The Royal Military Chapel (The Guards’ Chapel)
0.3 km
A modernist military chapel in London, blending solemn remembrance with rich history and striking architecture.
Churchill War Rooms
0.3 km
Britain's secret wartime headquarters where Churchill directed the fight against Nazi tyranny from underground bunkers beneath Westminster.
Clarence House
0.3 km
Explore Clarence House, the historic London residence of King Charles III, showcasing royal heritage, exquisite art, and elegant Regency architecture.
The Guards Museum
0.4 km
Explore centuries of British military history through the iconic Foot Guards’ uniforms, artifacts, and stories at Wellington Barracks’ Guards Museum.
Carlton Gardens
0.4 km
Elegant Regency architecture and serene gardens meet rich wartime history in the heart of London’s prestigious Carlton Gardens.
Lancaster House
0.4 km
Lancaster House: London’s neoclassical masterpiece blending royal history, political heritage, and elegant government hospitality near Buckingham Palace.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
0.4 km
Discover the rich heritage and exquisite selection of wines at Berry Bros. & Rudd, London's historic wine shop and event venue.
Pall Mall
0.4 km
Pall Mall: London’s historic street of royal games, elegant clubs, and pioneering urban charm.
Duke of York Column
0.4 km
A towering granite column in London honoring the Duke of York’s military legacy, crowned with a grand bronze statue atop historic Waterloo Place.
Carlton House Terrace
0.4 km
Elegant Georgian terraces on historic royal grounds, showcasing Regency architecture and London’s aristocratic heritage.
Central Hall Westminster
0.4 km
Iconic Grade II* listed venue with Europe’s largest self-supporting dome, hosting historic and modern events in central London.
Essential places to dine
The Pem
0.4 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Golden Lion
0.4 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Caxton Grill
0.5 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
Great British Restaurant
0.5 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Wild Honey St James
0.5 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
0.5 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.6 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Quaglino's
0.6 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Colosseo Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.7 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
0.7 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
Ma La Sichuan
0.7 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Garden
0.8 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.8 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Bill's Victoria Restaurant
0.8 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
John Lobb St. James
0.4 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.5 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.6 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.6 km
London’s oldest cheesemonger, serving artisan cheese with royal heritage and timeless charm.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.6 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Floris London
0.6 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Piccadilly Arcade
0.6 km
Discover Edwardian elegance and bespoke luxury in Piccadilly Arcade, a historic shopping gem linking Piccadilly and Jermyn Street in London.
Jermyn St
0.6 km
Discover Jermyn Street, London’s historic menswear enclave blending timeless craftsmanship with contemporary style and refined elegance.
Crest of London Ltd
0.6 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Prestat Chocolates
0.7 km
Royal warrant chocolatier crafting sophisticated truffles in Piccadilly's elegant Princes Arcade since 1902.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.7 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Fortnum & Mason
0.7 km
Historic luxury food hall and iconic London emporium offering gourmet delights, royal hampers, and timeless British tradition since 1707.
Princes Arcade
0.7 km
A refined covered arcade where London's bespoke traditions meet curated luxury shopping.
The Queen's Shop
0.7 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Burlington Arcade
0.7 km
Discover a luxurious shopping experience at Burlington Arcade, where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship in the heart of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Two Chairmen
0.3 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Westminster Arms
0.4 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
Blue Boar Pub
0.4 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Adam & Eve
0.4 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.6 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
The Spy Bar
0.6 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.6 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
Old Shades
0.6 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
All Bar One Victoria
0.6 km
Sophisticated wines, global bites, and lively vibes on Victoria Street – London's go-to for stylish drinks and casual feasts near Westminster's heart.
Below
0.8 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.8 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.8 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The New York Bar
0.8 km
A polished hotel lounge opposite Buckingham Palace — handcrafted cocktails, tasting events and piano-accompanied afternoons in plush, traditional surroundings.
Bbar
0.8 km
Chic Victoria cocktail bar beneath a living wall, blending South African zest with inventive drinks, hearty bites, and unforgettable afternoon teas near Buckingham Palace.
Gordon's Wine Bar
0.9 km
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TSQ Club
0.6 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
The Scotch of St James
0.6 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Tabu London
0.7 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
Tiger Tiger London
0.8 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
0.8 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Cuckoo Club
0.8 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.8 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Café de Paris
0.8 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
Heaven
0.9 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.9 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
The Penthouse London
0.9 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.9 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.9 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Sophisticats Soho
1.1 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
1.1 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly