Hyde Park
About 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.
History & Heritage
Hyde Park was established by King Henry VIII in 1536 when he acquired the land from the monks of Westminster Abbey to use as a private hunting ground. It remained a royal deer park until 1637, when King Charles I opened it to the general public, making it one of the first royal parks accessible to Londoners. Over the following centuries it became a fashionable place for the aristocracy to promenade and be seen.
The park has been the stage for many pivotal moments in London's history. It hosted the Great Exhibition of 1851 in the magnificent Crystal Palace, drawing six million visitors from around the world. Speakers' Corner, established in 1872 in the north-east corner, remains a global symbol of free speech where anyone may stand and address a crowd on almost any subject.
What to Expect
Expect wide open lawns perfect for picnics, the tranquil Serpentine lake where you can hire pedalos and rowing boats, and miles of paths for walking, running and cycling. Visitors can swim at the Serpentine Lido in summer, visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain, and enjoy lakeside cafés. In winter the park transforms into Winter Wonderland, one of the capital's biggest seasonal attractions.
Known For
Features & Facilities
- Boating lake
- Swimming
- Cycling paths
- Cafés & restaurants
- Playgrounds
- Open-air events
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Hyde Park free to enter?
- Yes, Hyde Park is free to enter and open to the public every day of the year, generally from 5am until midnight. Some seasonal events such as Winter Wonderland and summer concerts may charge admission.
- Can you swim in Hyde Park?
- Yes, the Serpentine Lido is open for swimming during the summer months, and the Serpentine Swimming Club swims year-round, including the famous Christmas Day race.
- What is the nearest tube station to Hyde Park?
- Hyde Park is served by several stations including Hyde Park Corner, Marble Arch, Lancaster Gate and Knightsbridge, all within a short walk of the park's various entrances.
More London Parks
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.
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.