Holland Park
About Holland Park
One of West London's most romantic parks, famous for the tranquil Kyoto Garden, resident peacocks, woodland walks and the open-air Holland Park Opera.
History & Heritage
Holland Park takes its name from Holland House, a grand Jacobean mansion built in 1605 that stood at the heart of the estate and became a celebrated hub of political and literary society in the 19th century. The house was largely destroyed by incendiary bombs during the Blitz in 1940, and only the east wing and some ruins survive today, forming an atmospheric backdrop to the park.
The London County Council acquired the grounds and opened them as a public park in 1952. The tranquil Kyoto Garden, a gift from the city of Kyoto, was created in 1991 to celebrate the long friendship between Japan and Britain, and remains one of the park's most beloved features with its waterfall, koi carp and Japanese maples.
What to Expect
Expect a beautifully varied park combining formal gardens, dense woodland and open lawns. The serene Kyoto Garden with its waterfall and koi pond is a highlight, often visited by the park's roaming peacocks. The ruins of Holland House provide a dramatic setting for the summer season of Opera Holland Park, and there are woodland trails, an adventure playground and a café to enjoy.
Known For
Features & Facilities
- Japanese garden
- Woodland
- Sports courts
- Adventure playground
- Café
- Open-air opera
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is the Kyoto Garden?
- The Kyoto Garden is a Japanese garden within Holland Park, created in 1991. It features a waterfall, koi carp pond and tiered planting, and is one of the park's most popular spots.
- Are there really peacocks in Holland Park?
- Yes, Holland Park is home to several resident peacocks that roam freely, often seen near the Kyoto Garden and the former Holland House.
- What is Opera Holland Park?
- Opera Holland Park is an acclaimed open-air opera season staged each summer against the ruins of Holland House, under a temporary canopy.
More London Parks
Kensington Gardens
Formerly the private gardens of Kensington Palace, now an elegant Royal Park famous for the Albert Memorial, the Italian Gardens and the Peter Pan statue.
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.