Hyde Park: London's Historic Urban Oasis
Discover Hyde Park, London’s vast historic green space where nature, culture, and leisure blend in the heart of the city.
Hyde Park, spanning 142 hectares in central London, is a vast urban green space rich with history, iconic landmarks, and diverse natural beauty. Divided by the Serpentine lake from Kensington Gardens, it offers tranquil gardens, open lawns, sports facilities, and cultural sites like Speakers’ Corner and the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain. Open daily from 5am to midnight, it invites visitors to relax, explore, and experience centuries of London’s heritage in a vibrant park setting.
A brief summary to Hyde Park
- London, GB
- +443000612000
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 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 early morning or late evening for a tranquil experience away from peak crowds.
- Explore Speakers’ Corner to witness lively public debates and free speech traditions.
- Rent a paddle boat at the Serpentine Boathouse during summer for a peaceful lake outing.
- Combine your visit with nearby Kensington Gardens to see the Albert Memorial and Serpentine Gallery.
- Check out Hyde Park Winter Wonderland if visiting in late November through December for festive fun.
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
-
London Underground
Take the Piccadilly Line to Hyde Park Corner station, approximately a 3-minute walk to the Rose Garden area. Alternatively, use the Central Line to Marble Arch station, about a 4-minute walk to Speakers’ Corner. Both stations offer frequent service with fares ranging from £2.50 to £6 depending on travel zones.
-
Bus
Several bus routes serve Hyde Park’s perimeter, including routes 9, 10, 14, and 52. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Buses stop on the north, south, and east sides of the park, providing convenient access with standard London bus fares of £1.75 per ride.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber offer direct access to Hyde Park entrances. Travel time depends on traffic but typically ranges from 10 to 25 minutes from central London. Expect fares from £8 to £20 based on distance and time of day.
-
Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Hyde Park is a pleasant option. From Knightsbridge station, it’s about a 10-minute walk over mostly flat terrain. The park’s paths are well-maintained and accessible, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Hyde Park location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Cold Weather
Discover more about Hyde Park
A Royal Legacy in the Heart of London
Hyde Park is one of London’s largest and most famous Royal Parks, covering approximately 142 hectares (350 acres) in the borough of Westminster. Established in the early 16th century by King Henry VIII as a hunting ground, it has evolved into a beloved public space that blends natural beauty with historical significance. The park stretches from Kensington to Buckingham Palace and is part of a chain of green spaces that includes Kensington Gardens, Green Park, and St James’s Park.The Serpentine and Natural Splendor
The park is bisected by the Serpentine, a large curved lake shared with Kensington Gardens. This lake, originally created by damming the River Westbourne, offers boating in summer and skating in winter. Hyde Park’s landscape is a mix of expansive lawns, formal gardens like the Rose Garden, and more wild, wooded areas. The flora is diverse, featuring unique plants from various climates alongside native species. Bird sanctuaries and peaceful groves provide habitats for wildlife, making it a serene nature escape amid the city.Iconic Landmarks and Memorials
Hyde Park is home to many notable monuments and memorials. Speakers’ Corner, near Marble Arch, is famous worldwide as a historic site for free speech and public debate, once frequented by figures like Karl Marx and George Orwell. The Princess Diana Memorial Fountain offers a contemplative water feature that draws visitors year-round. Other significant sites include the Holocaust Memorial Garden, the statue of Achilles commemorating the Duke of Wellington’s victories, and the Wellington Arch nearby. These landmarks enrich the park’s cultural and historical tapestry.Recreation and Leisure Activities
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities in Hyde Park. The Serpentine Lido provides open-air swimming during summer months, while the Serpentine Boathouse rents paddle boats for lake excursions. Sports facilities include tennis courts, football pitches, a putting green, and lawn bowls areas. Horse riding is available via two stables within the park. The park’s extensive footpaths and cycling routes invite leisurely strolls, runs, and bike rides, making it a hub for both relaxation and active recreation.Events and Vibrant Atmosphere
Hyde Park hosts numerous events and concerts throughout the year, enhancing its lively atmosphere. Historically, it has been a venue for significant political rallies, music performances, and cultural celebrations, earning the nickname ‘The People’s Park.’ Seasonal highlights include Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, a festive event with rides, markets, and entertainment from mid-November to early January. The park’s open spaces and facilities support a dynamic calendar that attracts diverse visitors.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
The park is open daily from 5am to midnight, with pedestrian gates welcoming visitors throughout the year. Amenities include cafes, food kiosks, public toilets (some requiring a small fee), and a permanent shop near the Boathouse open daily. Disabled parking and access are well provided, with free parking for Blue Badge holders subject to time limits. Multiple entrances connect to nearby Tube stations such as Hyde Park Corner, Marble Arch, and Knightsbridge, ensuring easy access by public transport.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Old Police House
0.1 km
Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.
Norwegian War Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
Speakers' Corner
0.5 km
Historic Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park: London's iconic open-air forum for free speech and public debate since the 19th century.
Edward Jenner Memorial
0.8 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
38 Grosvenor Sq
0.9 km
Historic mid-19th-century Italianate residence in London’s prestigious Grosvenor Square, a symbol of aristocratic and diplomatic heritage.
Royal Artillery Memorial
1.0 km
A powerful and realistic tribute to the Royal Artillery’s sacrifice, featuring a monumental stone howitzer and evocative bronze figures at Hyde Park Corner.
Roosevelt Memorial
1.0 km
A dignified tribute to Franklin D. Roosevelt in the historic heart of London’s Grosvenor Square, symbolizing enduring Anglo-American friendship.
Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington
1.0 km
Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military triumphs and contributions to London’s cityscape, unveiled in 1844.
Machine Gun Corps Memorial
1.0 km
A striking WWI memorial at Hyde Park Corner, blending classical art and the harsh realities of mechanized warfare to honor the Machine Gun Corps’ sacrifice.
Sussex Gardens
1.0 km
A serene Victorian garden oasis nestled in the historic Tyburnia district, blending lush greenery with elegant architecture in central London.
Speke Monument
1.1 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
Wellington Arch
1.1 km
Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.
Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral
1.2 km
A historic London landmark blending Alfred Waterhouse’s architecture with vibrant Ukrainian Catholic tradition in the heart of Mayfair.
Belgrave Square
1.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Belgrave Square, a historic gem in London, surrounded by elegant architecture and lush gardens.
Empire House
1.3 km
Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain
0.6 km
A serene, interactive water memorial in Hyde Park honoring Princess Diana’s life and legacy through innovative design and tranquil reflection.
Animals In War Memorial
0.6 km
Explore the Animals In War Memorial in London, a moving tribute honoring the bravery of animals in military service throughout history.
Park Ln
0.7 km
Prestigious Park Lane in London blends historic grandeur with luxury hotels, upscale shops, and serene Hyde Park views along its iconic 1.1 km stretch.
Harvey Nichols
0.7 km
Discover Harvey Nichols Knightsbridge, a historic luxury department store blending cutting-edge fashion, gourmet dining, and iconic London style.
Frameless Immersive Art Experience
0.7 km
Step inside iconic artworks at Frameless, London’s immersive art experience where technology and creativity unite to mesmerize and inspire.
Moco Museum London
0.8 km
Immersive modern and contemporary art experience featuring iconic masters and digital innovations at London's vibrant Marble Arch.
London Gifts
0.8 km
A lively London-themed gift shop on Oxford Street offering quick souvenirs with a vibrant but sometimes challenging shopping experience.
Serpentine Gallery
0.8 km
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art and architecture in the heart of Kensington Gardens, London’s iconic cultural oasis.
Queen Caroline's Temple
0.8 km
An elegant 18th-century neoclassical summerhouse in Kensington Gardens, celebrating Queen Caroline’s artistic and landscape legacy.
Statue of Achilles
0.9 km
A towering bronze tribute to the Duke of Wellington’s victories, blending classical myth and British history near his famed London home.
Italian Gardens
0.9 km
Explore the stunning Italian Gardens in Kensington Gardens, a serene escape in London featuring classical design, beautiful fountains, and vibrant floral displays.
Harrods
0.9 km
Experience the grandeur of London’s largest luxury department store, where over 330 departments and world-class dining await in Knightsbridge.
Queen Elizabeth Gate
0.9 km
Explore the grandeur of Queen Elizabeth Gate, a historic entryway to Hyde Park, blending rich heritage with natural beauty in the heart of London.
Grosvenor Chapel
0.9 km
Historic 18th-century Mayfair chapel blending Georgian elegance with Anglo-Catholic tradition and wartime American ties.
Thomas Goode & Co
0.9 km
Discover nearly two centuries of exquisite craftsmanship and royal heritage at Thomas Goode & Co, London's premier luxury tableware emporium in Mayfair.
Essential places to dine
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
0.6 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
The Grenadier
0.9 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
Apricity Restaurant
1.1 km
Sustainable fine dining in Mayfair blending seasonal British produce with innovative, low-waste culinary artistry.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
1.3 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
HIDE
1.4 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
1.7 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Little Social
1.7 km
Stylish Mayfair bistro offering refined modern British small plates with an intimate atmosphere and excellent wine selection.
sketch
1.7 km
An iconic Mayfair venue blending avant-garde art, Michelin-starred dining, and whimsical design for an unforgettable London experience.
London Shell Co. - The Prince Regent
1.7 km
Savor exceptional British seafood aboard a charming canal barge cruising the historic Regent's Canal in Central London.
Great British Restaurant
1.7 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Quaglino's
1.7 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
1.7 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
The English Grill
1.8 km
Classic British dining perfected with expertly grilled steaks and seasonal delights in a refined, elegant setting near London’s iconic theatres.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
1.8 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Zuaya London
1.8 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
1.1 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
St Christopher's Place
1.3 km
Discover the charm of St Christopher's Place, a hidden shopping and dining haven in the heart of Marylebone, London.
Science Museum Shop
1.3 km
Ignite curiosity with science-inspired gifts, gadgets, and toys at this inventive shop inside London's Science Museum – perfect for all ages.
Disney Store
1.4 km
Step into a world of magic and imagination at the Disney Store on Oxford Street, where every corner is filled with fan-favorite treasures and exclusive collectibles.
V&A Shop
1.4 km
Discover art-inspired gifts and unique keepsakes at the V&A Shop, nestled within London’s renowned Victoria and Albert Museum.
The Natural History Museum Shop
1.5 km
Discover nature’s wonders through unique gifts and souvenirs at the Natural History Museum Shop in London’s iconic museum.
Bond St
1.5 km
London's most exclusive luxury shopping street, where three centuries of elegance meet contemporary high fashion.
LONGCHAMP
1.5 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
Charbonnel et Walker
1.6 km
Britain’s first luxury chocolatier since 1875, nestled in Mayfair’s Royal Arcade – where tradition, truffles and royal patronage meet in every exquisite box.
28 The Royal Arcade
1.6 km
Step into London's oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
Kensington Palace Shop
1.6 km
Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
The London Shop
1.7 km
Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.
Burlington Arcade
1.7 km
Discover a luxurious shopping experience at Burlington Arcade, where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship in the heart of London.
The Queen's Shop
1.7 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
1.7 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Victoria, Paddington
0.8 km
Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.
The Churchill Bar & Terrace
1.0 km
Sophisticated cocktail bar and terrace in central London, blending classic British charm with modern elegance and a vibrant social scene.
The Dickens Tavern
1.2 km
Classic British pub with hearty fare and ales, nestled in Paddington’s vibrant heart near London Paddington Station.
Bar 190
1.3 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
Below
1.4 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Purl London
1.4 km
Discover Purl London, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar in Marylebone offering expertly crafted drinks in a cozy vintage setting.
The Blind Pig at Mary's est. 2024
1.6 km
Discover a stylish Mayfair speakeasy blending inventive cocktails, retro charm, and attentive service in London's vibrant Pollen Street scene.
Stables Bar
1.7 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
The New York Bar
1.7 km
A polished hotel lounge opposite Buckingham Palace — handcrafted cocktails, tasting events and piano-accompanied afternoons in plush, traditional surroundings.
Piano Kensington
1.8 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
Bbar
1.8 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.
AMARO BAR - London
1.8 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
The Argyll Arms
1.8 km
Step into The Argyll Arms, a Victorian-era pub gem in Soho blending historic charm, real ales, and hearty British fare near Oxford Circus.
Cahoots London
1.9 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
Disrepute - Soho
1.9 km
Descend into Soho's glamorous underworld at Disrepute, where 1960s scandal meets masterful cocktails in velvet-clad vaults—Soho's seductive late-night escape.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
1.0 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Metric
1.2 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
1.5 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Carwash Nightclub
1.5 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
Tabu London
1.6 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.
Dolce Night Club , London
1.7 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
The Cuckoo Club
1.8 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Scotch of St James
1.9 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
B London
1.9 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Sunset night club
2.0 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
Notting Hill Arts Club
2.1 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
2.1 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Bordello London
2.2 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
101 Nightclub London
2.2 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
The Box Soho
2.2 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
