Green Park
About Green Park
A tranquil Royal Park of mature trees and open lawns linking Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly, known for its simplicity, spring daffodils and memorials.
History & Heritage
Green Park was first enclosed by King Charles II in the 1660s, reputedly on the site of an old burial ground, which is said to explain the long-standing tradition of the park having no formal flowerbeds. It was a fashionable venue for duels and lavish royal firework displays in the 18th century, including Handel's 'Music for the Royal Fireworks' in 1749.
The park was opened to the public in 1826 and landscaped in a deliberately simple style of grass and trees. Today it forms part of the ceremonial approach to Buckingham Palace and is home to several memorials, including the Canada Memorial and the Bomber Command Memorial on its edge.
What to Expect
Expect a peaceful, understated park of rolling lawns and mature London plane trees, with no formal flower beds — just carpets of daffodils in spring. Its shady paths and hired deckchairs make it a restful retreat between the bustle of Piccadilly and the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, and it connects seamlessly to St James's Park and Hyde Park along the ceremonial route.
Known For
Features & Facilities
- Open lawns
- Tree-lined paths
- War memorials
- Deckchairs
- Nearby cafés
- Ceremonial route
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why does Green Park have no flowers?
- By tradition Green Park has no formal flowerbeds, only grass and trees. A popular legend attributes this to the land's history, though in spring the park is carpeted with daffodils.
- Is Green Park connected to other Royal Parks?
- Yes, Green Park sits between St James's Park and Hyde Park and forms part of the ceremonial route to Buckingham Palace, allowing visitors to walk between all three.
- What memorials are in Green Park?
- Green Park contains the Canada Memorial and lies beside the Bomber Command Memorial and the memorials at Hyde Park Corner.
More London Parks
Hyde Park
One of London's largest and most famous Royal Parks, home to the Serpentine lake, Speakers' Corner and 350 acres of open parkland in the heart of the city.
Regent's Park
An elegant Royal Park designed by John Nash, famous for Queen Mary's Gardens, the Open Air Theatre, London Zoo and beautifully manicured formal gardens.
St James's Park
The oldest Royal Park in London, set between Buckingham Palace and Whitehall, famous for its lake, resident pelicans and postcard views of the palace.