Hyde Park & The Serpentine
Central London's largest Royal Park, with boating on the Serpentine, the Lido, the Diana Memorial Fountain and the Serpentine galleries nearby.
About Hyde Park & The Serpentine
Hyde Park is the largest Royal Park in central London, stretching from Hyde Park Corner and Knightsbridge north to Marble Arch and west to Kensington Gardens. The Serpentine lake curves through its middle, and the park is a place for walking, cycling, running, riding on Rotten Row or simply sitting by the water.
Highlights include boating and pedalos on the Serpentine, the Serpentine Lido, home to the oldest swimming club in Britain, and the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain, opened in 2004. Speakers' Corner keeps its tradition of open-air public speaking, the Rose Garden near Rotten Row is lovely in summer, and there are playgrounds for children. Cafés sit along the waterside. Just across the Serpentine Bridge in Kensington Gardens, the two Serpentine galleries show contemporary art with free entry, and the summer Serpentine Pavilion runs until 25 October this year.
The park suits everyone, from runners and families to visitors needing a break between the shops of Knightsbridge and the museums of South Kensington. Large events such as the BST summer concerts and Winter Wonderland are held here. Pedestrian gates are open from 5am to midnight, and entry is free.