3 of 8, St James Park, The Green Park, Hyde Park
– Charles Dickens
Late fall is a great time to visit London and it’s 8 Royal Parks are perfect for strolling. If you’re out for a hike or you’re searching for a peaceful ramble after a day of shopping and sightseeing, these 3 parks offer the tranquil space you crave.
From Trafalgar Square, down Whitehall to the Horse Guard enter St James Park.
St James Park with it’s beautiful flower gardens, weeping willows, fountain and fowl. Ducks, geese, swans and pelicans roam the grounds. Swans may approach you looking for a snack and if you’re timing is right you will witness the Horse Guard Parade. The Life Guard change takes place here at 11:00am daily and 10:00am on Sundays.
From St James Park, cross the Mall in front of Buckingham Palace to enter The Green Park.
In Green Park you’ll treasure the beautiful walks wandering the paths. Find a bench and linger to relish the green space of grasslands and magnificent trees. Bring a picnic to savor a meal on the lawn. Don’t be surprised if you see two friends sharing a bench and a nip from a brown bag.
When your meal is complete roam the pathways to emerge at Hyde Park.
In Hyde Park enjoy watching locals feeding breadcrumbs to the pigeons and squirrels.
Hire a bike and bicycle Hyde Park or stroll the paths. Appreciate the lake view, hire a boat and row or pedal the lake at Serpentine Lake. Visit the many memorials and don’t forget to find the statue of Peter Pan. On a Sunday Morning meander to the north east corner and have a listen to the orators at Speaker’s Corner.
After spending time in these parks you’ll want to discover more of their history, and with a nod to Dickens you’ll agree “The parks be the lungs of London”.
For more on the history of the parks visit their official site
https://www.royalparks.org.uk/
Be Well. Stay Safe. Much Love.
Story & Photos: © 2020 Molly Cox