The best parks in London: St. James, Hyde Park, Richmond, Victoria, Kensington Gardens, Green Park

Do you know London? Travelers who periodically enjoy themselves with trips to foreign countries, just happened here. For some reason it is believed that this city is gloomy, unfriendly and rainy. Certainly, there are some problems with the climate there. But they recede into the background when there is an opportunity to see the sights of London: parks, museums, monuments, ancient buildings and so on.

Why you need to go to London?

There are a lot of interesting places in the world, but London among them occupies an honorable second place after Paris. Why is this city so popular? It involves a mixture of antiquity and modernity. And it can be traced in everything. The architecture of London is its main attraction. Museums attract lovers to learn something new, famous markets and shops - those who adore shopping, and pubs - admirers of a truly English foam drink. But many call the most amazing of what you can see in the city, parks of London. They occupy about 30 percent of the total area of the capital. And in this city "on the lawns" to go allowed. You can not just luxuriate on the soft green grass, but also see many interesting things if you bypass all parks in London. This will take a lot of time.

Beauty and delights of St. James

St. James Park is one of the oldest in the city. But from this he did not lose his splendor. His story is interesting and rich. The park was named after a hospital in which lepers were kept. It was in a marshy deserted area. A few hundred years later, a palace with the same name was erected here, on the orders of Henry VIII. And at the request of Elizabeth I, who was eager for entertainment, a huge park was pitched near the palace, in which further magnificent celebrations were held. Time passed, and St. James improved. Thanks to the efforts of the architect John Nash, this place acquired a romantic appearance around the 17th century. It is in this atmosphere that everyone who visits this park gets today.

This place is surrounded by three palaces, near many busy streets, but life here seems to flow in its own way. Rich in the rich fauna and flora. There are more than 15 species of different birds in the park. You will be surprised if you learn that the tree to which you leaned was a witness of royal hunting. For holidaymakers excellent conditions are created here. Toddlers frolic on the playgrounds, adults stroll through the amazing beauty of the alleys.

You can visit St. James Park anytime from 5am to 12am. Pleases also that for an input from you money will not demand. You can get here both on your car and on public transport. It is enough to take the metro to the station of the same name along the Circle Line. This park is recognized as the most visited in the whole of Europe.

The charm of Victoria Park

About 80 acres occupy this amazing park. It is located between two channels. Over the centuries that have passed since the foundation, he underwent many changes. Previously, the territory belonged to the church, everything here was blooming and fragrant. But then in place of the park discovered minerals, and it turned into a lifeless quarry. Only in the 18th century began the restoration. Victoria Park was opened for visits in the middle of the 19th century. Workers gathered here, arranged demonstrations, rallies. The Second World War left its imprint on the history of this place. On the territory there were anti-aircraft installations. But in the postwar years there was an active work to restore the park. He became a sort of public tribune. And now it is not only a social arena, but also an excellent recreational zone. There is a children's club, a rowing club (functioning for more than a hundred years), cricket tournaments. And in 2008 Victoria Park was unanimously recognized as the best in the city.

The greatness and nature of Green Park

This area attracts attention not only tourists, but also scientists. And although now it belongs to the Royal Parks, long ago people who died of leprosy were buried here. Green Park will not give you the pleasure of contemplating monuments, ponds or famous buildings. There are only two memorials and the Constantine Fountain. The rest of the territory is boundless, broad, green meadows. This is a real paradise for those who are tired of megacities and dream of enjoying peace and quiet.

Green Park leads the story from the 16th century, then it was in the power of Henry VIII. In the 17th century the area was used for hunting. There were practically no people, as there was a park at a great distance from the city. In the 18th century the park became a haven for thieves and thieves. There were also duels between representatives of the London nobility. And only in the 19th century the park became really a place for rest. Here, to this day, not only the residents of the city are walking, but also a huge number of tourists coming to Foggy Albion. Here you can also see artists who are inspired by the atmosphere of intimacy and unity with nature.

The Uniqueness of Greenwich Park

Interesting is the fact that the name of the park was received from all the known Greenwich meridian. The latter is indicated by a shiny strip. It passes through the very center of the park. You will be surprised when you realize that having arrived here, you can both be in the eastern hemisphere and in the western hemisphere. Visiting Greenwich Park, you can admire from the huge observation deck to local attractions. These include the National Maritime Museum, the hospital and the University of Greenwich and others. Experienced tourists recommend to come here in the middle of spring. It is during this period that you can find the celebration of the Greenwich Meridian. This is a fun event for guests from all over the world.

Previously Greenwich Park was fenced, as it belonged to the number of hunting possessions. His master was King James the First. It is due to this that on 70 hectares now it is still possible to find roe deer, deer, fallow deer, squirrel, fox and other living creatures. But the park is divided into two levels. The upper is seriously guarded, there are ponds with waterfowl. The rest of the territory of this part is a blooming, fragrant garden. Tourists with pleasure gaze at the beautiful rosaries, ancient and rare plant specimens. There are also modern design elements, for example, equipped tennis courts, a stage for performing orchestras, glades for rugby and cricket. The lower part, the second part of the park, also attracts with its beauty. There is a lake with a playground on the shore and a boat station. You can visit one of the thematic, musical or theatrical parties held in this part of the park.

It is not surprising that this place belongs to the sights of UNESCO's world heritage.

The wealth and pomposity of Kensington Gardens

The parks of London are worthily represented by Kensington gardens. They are adjacent to the palace of the same name and occupy an area of more than 100 hectares. The history of this place began in 1689. It was then that King William III bought a house here, and Christopher Wren turned it into a palace. Twenty years later, Queen Anne expanded the modest park by purchasing additional hectares. It was she who built a greenhouse in which plants are found in the cold season. This building, made of red brick, is located near the Kensington Palace. Queen Carolina subsequently added a "touch to the portrait" of the park - Round Pond, Long Lake, Serpentine Lake , two gazebos. And Queen Victoria built here the memorial of Prince Albert. She also broke into the Italian gardens.

Now Kensington gardens are a favorite place for citizens to walk and run. It is quiet, peaceful, peaceful. In the palace of the same name, located in the park, Princess Diana lived . By the way, it is in honor of this amazing and many beloved women in the park is a memorial playground. Among the attractions of this place can be attributed and a statue of Peter Pan, made of bronze. The imagination and already mentioned Albert memorial is amazing. It rises above the ground by 53 meters. Many tourists are happy to visit the gallery of modern art called "Serpentine". Kensington Gardens is a place where you can not only relax, take a walk, but also see a lot of interesting things that have a long and rich history. They are the western part of a huge park, the eastern part of it is called Hyde Park. However, due to the fact that there is no clear boundary between them, the whole territory is often called Kensington Gardens.

Glitter and chic of Regent's Park

This place stands out against the background of other similar ones. Regent's Park attracts a unique extensive infrastructure. The landscape design here is amazing and unique. And among the wild nature, cozy cafes, sports grounds are located.

This park was designed and defeated in the 17th century by the efforts of the court architect and John Nash. It was here in those days with pleasure rested representatives of the court nobility. This park has managed to preserve its original appearance until today. This he is unique, and attractive. In the 19th century, the Royal Botanical Society and a decent zoo were created on its territory. But ordinary citizens had the right to visit these places only twice a week.

Today any tourist can come here absolutely freely in any day. In the warm season, the park operates from 5 am and until late in the evening - up to 9 hours. In winter, this gap is reduced. You can enjoy the beauty of nature from 9 am and 4 pm. I am glad that the entrance here is free, however, this applies to all the Royal Parks.

Since the territory you have to bypass is large enough, it will be superfluous to stockpile a pocket pointer, helping to determine distances and routes. Regent's Park is a favorite place for all fans of outdoor activities. There are sports grounds, full-fledged fitness centers, regular competitions and events. Anyone can get the advice of an experienced instructor for only three euros.

Very reverent here refer to the wild. For example, throughout the park you can see the corners of reed thickets that provide shelter for birds. But the main local attraction is the Rose Garden.

It is easy to get here - from any of the metro stations. The park is located in the center of London, so you can easily find it.

Great Richmond Park

Among themselves, this park is one of the largest. To think, its area is about 950 hectares. He is more than three times his New York "colleague". The park was named after the reign of Henry VII. There are forests, plains, groves, and a lot of open areas. Many plants were grown for money received as donations from tourists. Suppose the grove of the Queen Mother was named after Queen Elizabeth. And the Isabella plantation was raised in the middle of the 20th century. In memory of the deceased in the late 80's Bessie Bone was planted a grove Bone.

If you want to admire the surroundings, then you should visit the highest point of the park. It is in the gardens of Pembroke Lodge. It is from here that you can see the Cathedral of St. Paul, the Thames Valley.

Richmond Park is famous for its amazingly rich fauna. Here you can find more than 50 species of different birds, live here and all kinds of insects, rabbits, squirrels, red and brown deer.

The territory is easy to walk on foot. But if you want you can use the services of a taxi. Be prepared for the car to move at a speed of no more than 20 miles per hour. There are a lot of cyclists here. Such a trip is an excellent opportunity not only to admire the nature, but also to keep oneself in shape. Consider, you can not ride a bicycle anywhere, so says the law. There are also trails for horse walks. For pedestrians it is impossible to move around them. You will not be able to also light a fire in the park territory - it is forbidden and is threatened with a fine. It is not allowed to park visitors and listen to music loudly, and there are special places for photographing.

Cozy Hyde Park

In the center of London this amazingly beautiful and cozy park is located. It occupies 145 hectares of area. Speaking frankly, this is the eastern side of the park, but its western part is called Kensington Gardens. There is no formal border as such between them.

Photos Hyde Park in London clearly show that in its center is the Serpentine lake, which received such a name for its curved, wriggling shape. Here you can admire the huge number of swans, geese, ducks. Many tourists prefer to rent rowing boats on condition of good weather.

You can just lie on a deckchair. It's enough to get in any free chair and wait for the caretaker. For the use of a chaise longue, he needs to give only 1 pound. Bathing in the local pool is also paid. Attracts tourists and excellent children's infrastructure (pond, playground, the possibility of training crafts, juggling).

It is interesting to visit the Wellington Museum. And fans of Stephen King can look here a real pet cemetery. Fans of riding are attracted by an alley specially designed for this. She is especially striking in the evening, highlighted by a hundred lanterns. Photo Hyde Park in London confirm that there are many interesting and unusual places on its territory. For example, where else will you see the Speaker's Corner? Here, any person can push the speech absolutely unhindered, on any topic. Now it is allowed to do this on Sundays. Had a liking for tourists and local residents and parades, which are held here every year. They are dedicated to Queen Elizabeth.

This is a great place to relax.

Other parks in London

As you can see, rest in the capital of Foggy Albion can be quiet and calm. And this is not all the famous parks of London. What beautiful places can I visit when I come to the capital of Great Britain?

1. The Chelsea Medical Garden. This park was founded in 1673. Its territory is not very large, in comparison with others, only 1.4 hectares. But in it you can see a huge number of green exhibits. Here grow the oldest in the country olive trees, which bear fruit to this day. Many plants are used in perfumery and medicine. Here you can find rare spices and aromatic herbs. Striking and a chic rock garden, which is broken in the garden.
2. Holland Park. This place is recognized as the most romantic in the city. Here, a lot of secluded corners, and lush vegetation creates a unique atmosphere. Around the park are fashionable areas with luxury houses. This place dates back to the 19th century. Now in the park you can find a greenhouse, tennis courts, a game area for kids, a Japanese garden, a field designed for playing cricket.
3. Meadow Hampstead. The area has an impressive area of about 300 hectares. It is the oldest and largest park. It is a place on the hills, with ponds, gardens, groves, sports fields and facilities. Here you can find tennis courts, golf courses, jogging paths. Attracts guests here and a small zoo.
4. Batterseau Park. For the people it was discovered in about the 19th century. The park became famous thanks to a water garden with fountains and avenues that connect special platforms. It is popular not only for locals, but also for the numerous guests of the city. In the park there are playgrounds, fields for playing football, tennis, paths for skating, a boat station, a zoo, a stage for performances of the orchestra. There are also numerous exhibitions and fairs that attract tourists.
5. Osterley Park. In the center of it is a homonymous mansion. It was built in the 16th century. Later it was decorated in neoclassical style. This place is very beautiful, amazing with its grandeur. The mansion can be visited by anyone who wants to see the stunning interiors of those times. Around it is a garden that was built in the 18th century. On the territory of this park there is a farm shop. There you can buy fresh and healthy vegetables that are grown nearby.

There are in the capital of the United Kingdom and urban farms. They can be of interest to tourists no less than the parks of London. They are fifteen in all. And to visit such a farm means to get an opportunity to communicate with poultry and animals, being in a huge metropolis. You will not be charged for the entrance. There are also services that cost money. For example, you can take yourself a bed to grow vegetables on it yourself.

The parks of London are numerous and magnificent. There is no more such capital in the world, in which there were so many green territories. And only this alone speaks in favor of the decision to go to the Foggy Albion. Entrance to all parks is free. But the cafes located on their territory are quite expensive. Therefore, going for a walk, it is better to stock up the food in advance. After the sun sets, it is recommended to walk only in open spaces. In any case, each park has its own special police. It is she who decides when the gates are closed.

All London parks are well-groomed, and their device is planned to trifles. The foundations of traditions in the 18th century were laid by a gardener, who was called Eridzhmen. And the art of creating a magnificent landscape design in the UK was formed under the influence of Chinese and Japanese culture. Everyone knows the stunning beauty of the natural gardens in these countries. Parks in the city are spacious, because the British do not like too much shade. The sun does not often appear in the London sky. So you have to catch the moment, and you can do it in the park - on the green lawn. Numerous parks can be safely called the main attraction of the city.

It's amazing how many green spaces can be in a megacity. In London, it is 150 oases, the total area of which is 5 thousand hectares. And all this beauty is at the disposal of thousands of tourists who come here annually. To save it, you need to behave correctly when visiting the parks of London. When entering, be sure to read the information plate that describes the requirements for visitors. Walking in the park area, it is necessary to adhere only to the trampled paths. Naturally, in such a place it is impossible to build bonfires, cut down branches, create noise, loudly listen to music, catch animals and birds. Try to take the garbage left after your rest. To be considered as civilized people abroad, we must also behave appropriately.