Hyde Park

The basics

Hyde Park is one of London’s most popular open-air hangouts, a much-frequented escape from the busy city streets. Parkgoers can explore independently, boating on the Serpentine Lake, listening to people air their views at Speakers’ Corner, and viewing the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain.

Many hop-on hop-off bus tours of London stop in the vicinity of Hyde Park, while some bike tours follow paths through the park. Some royal-themed tours of London pass through en route to Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace. Seasonal Christmas-lights tours often incorporate a visit to the park, which plays host to the annual Winter Wonderland event during the festive season.

Things to know before you go

• Hyde Park is a must for tired sightseers who need a break from the urban bustle.

• Wheelchair users can access paths in the park and wheelchair-accessible toilets are available throughout the park.

• The park hosts a restaurant, café, and several refreshment kiosks.

How to get there

Parking can be both scarce and expensive in central London, so it’s best to go by public transport. Lancaster Gate (Central line), Marble Arch (Central line), Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly line), and Knightsbridge (Piccadilly line) Tube stations are all within walking distance of the park.

When to get there

Summer is the best time to visit when open-air activities from film screenings to concerts take place. Mondays–Thursdays are typically quieter than weekends, and winter is usually quieter than summer, though the annual Winter Wonderland festival brings out big crowds during the lead-up to Christmas.

London’s Royal Parks

Hyde Park is one of eight Royal Parks in the British capital. Neighboring Royal Parks, including Kensington Gardens, St. James’s Park, and Green Park, sit in the heart of central London. Kensington Palace in Kensington Gardens and the resident pelicans of St. James’s Park are Royal Parks highlights. Green Park is full of mature trees and an abundance of daffodils, which bloom in spring.

Ways to explore

Hyde Park is one of London’s most popular open-air spaces, offering a welcome escape from the city’s busy streets. Many hop-on hop-off bus tours of London stop near Hyde Park, while some bike tours follow paths through the park. Royal-themed tours may pass through en route to Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace, or there are private black taxi tours to check off top London attractions in style. If visiting during the festive season, consider Christmas-lights tours, which often incorporate a visit to the park to see the annual Winter Wonderland event held within its grounds.

Accessibility

Most of Hyde Park’s paths are wide, flat, and accessible to wheelchairs.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Contactless payment card to use public toilets (20p charge), bottled water, picnic blanket, snacks

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, extra layers of clothing

Not allowed

Feeding birds or animals in the park, barbecues

Amenities

Four cafés, restrooms, shop, car parks, playgrounds

Address

Hyde Park is located in Westminster and is bounded by notable areas including Knightsbridge, Park Lane, Paddington, and Mayfair. Parking can be scarce and expensive, so many travel here by public transport or with a guided tour.

Driving

Driving to Hyde Park can be tricky due to traffic, but there are two public car parks off West Carriage Drive. Parking costs £2.80 per hour Monday through Saturday and £2 per hour on Sunday.

Public transportation

The easiest way to reach Hyde Park is by the tube. Take the Central line to Lancaster Gate or Marble Arch, or the Piccadilly Line to Hyde Park Corner or Knightsbridge. All stations are just a short walk away.

Best times to visit

It’s wonderful to get to the park early in the morning for peace and tranquility, or coming close to sunset is beautiful too.

Best days to visit

If the aim of the game is avoiding big crowds, then come on Mondays through Thursdays to sidestep the surge of tourists and locals at the weekends.

Best months to visit

The summer months of July and August are fun for picnics in the park, boating on the lake, and leisurely strolls. Winter is magical, too.

Special events

Hyde Park is famous for Winter Wonderland, a December festival with rides, beer halls, live shows, and Christmas souvenirs. It’s a festive highlight and the perfect Christmas warm-up.