One of the most famous in the world park areas- located in the center of the British capital, Hyde Park. A fabulous green island of nature, beautiful at any time of the year.
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Initially, this area was a dense virgin forest, which was owned by Westminster Abbey. Then King Henry VIII seized the land for hunting grounds and for entertainment events in which the relatives and subjects of the monarch took part.
Ordinary citizens were allowed to visit the royal park since 1637 during the reign of James I. Over time, it becomes a popular place among the capital's residents - they rested here, celebrated holidays. And in 1665, the townspeople were fleeing the plague that broke out in London.
Each monarch who came to the throne, sought to bring something new to the look of Hyde Park. In 1728, Caroline, the wife of George II, ordered to equip the lakes, which divided the entire territory into two parts. William III ordered the construction of the Rotten Row road and the installation of more than three hundred oil lamps - this was the first road in the city and in the whole kingdom with artificial lighting. It still exists, and lovers of horseback riding take walks here.
By order of Queen Victoria, the World Exhibition was held in the park in 1851. For the exposition, an elegant Crystal Palace was built, a grandiose glass pavilion that could accommodate 14,000 visitors at a time. Unfortunately, it has not survived to this day - it burned down in 1936. FROM early XIX century, the territory took modern look which has hardly changed to date. Occupies an area of 1.4 square meters. km.
A riding school is open in the park, you can rent roller skates, play bowling in a special pavilion, play tennis in an open area, and excursions are organized. Often there are performances by popular artists, including Madonna, the Rolling Stones, state and religious holidays are celebrated. After walking or playing sports, it is pleasant to relax and dine in cozy cafes and restaurants - the prices are reasonable and the food is delicious.
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What to watch
On the territory of Hyde-Park there is a museum and an art gallery, where modern Art, many interesting monuments.
The most popular objects among Londoners and visitors to the city are:
Speaker's corner
Serpentine Lake
Translated Serpentine means Serpentine - a reservoir of artificial origin (equipped in 1730), separates Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. Its area is slightly less than 12 hectares. Named for its curved, snake-like shape, used specifically to create a natural look. This was an unconventional solution for the 17th century, while man-made lakes and ponds had straight lines and an elongated shape.
A tragic story made the lake more popular: Harriet Westbrook, the wife of the poet Shelley, drowned in it. The woman left a suicide note on the shore, from which it followed that it was suicide. Probably, her husband did not grieve too much - two weeks after her tragic death, the poet married again.
Here expanse for lovers of water entertainment, you can combine relaxation and sports - fishing, boating or catamaran, swimming if the weather is good, just lying on the green lawns or having picnics.
In 2002, rowing competitions were held on the lake, and in 2012, during Olympic Games- competition in water sports sports.
Pet cemetery
Not too well known even among the locals. Burial of pets began in London in 1881, the last burial dates back to 1903. Dog Cherry - Maltese Terrier, family-owned Barned was the first to be buried here. After the death of the dog, the Barned children persuaded the porter to allow their pet to be buried in his garden. Then, under the wheels of the carriage, the dog of the wife of the Duke of Cambridge died - this was the second burial.
A year later, almost the entire gatekeeper's garden was occupied by graves - only about 300 pieces. The gravestones have survived to this day. This gloomy, but picturesque place is a closed area, everyone is allowed here only once a year.
Monuments
It is impossible to see all Hyde Park memorials in a day, the most popular among visitors are:
Statue of Achilles - dedicated to the victory over Napoleon's army. This is the largest monument of the park, established in 1822. To create it, the cannons captured by Wellington's army in the campaign against Napoleon's Bonaparte were melted down.
The figure of Achilles is made in the form of a naked man, many Londoners, distinguished by stiffness, actively resented this. But the sculpture managed to be defended, passions subsided and now people can admire it.
Diana Memorial Fountain - in memory of the Princess of Wales (died in a car accident in Paris in 1997). The fountain is unique building, which was opened personally by Elizabeth II on July 6, 2004. Designed by renowned landscape designer Katherine Gustafson, the project required 545 blocks of Cornish granite to complete.
The symbolic building represents the life of the Princess of Wales and is made in unusual shape- two gutters measuring 50 x 80 m, connected into an oval. Water flows through the gutters towards each other. On the east side, gentle steps and water flows slowly - the personification of a calm part of life, on the west - the water stream looks like a fast and stormy river, symbolizes hard times and the sudden ridiculous death of the princess. Transition water streams carried over three bridges, the fountain is fed by London's groundwater. Diana was highly respected by locals and people around the world due to the help she always provided to the sick and disadvantaged people.
The July 7 monument is dedicated to people who died during the terrorist attacks. There was a tragedy in 2004 in the capital's subway. Made in a minimalist style - 52 rectangular columns made of of stainless steel installed vertically.
In the eastern part of Hyde Park there are several unusual fountains and statues. They were made in the sixties of the XX century. One composition is called "Still Water" - depicts huge head a horse bending over to drink.
Not far away one could see an equestrian statue of Genghis Khan, cast in bronze. It was created in 2012 by the Russian sculptor Namdakov. A few years later, it was replaced by the composition "Keeper" by the same sculptor - a mystical cat with wings that protects cubs.
Among the best is a monument to animals participating in the First World War. The appearance of such a memorial is not surprising - the British are passionate lovers of horses, dogs and cats. The exposition was opened in 2004 by Anna, the daughter of the Queen of England, and Buster, a springer spaniel dog, a participant in the war in Iraq. The dog was awarded the Maria Deakin Medal, the highest military award for animals, for the courage she showed in carrying out responsible and dangerous tasks.
Animals participated in wars in antiquity, only in the First World War, 8 million horses, donkeys, dogs, pigeons died. Grateful Londoners carved a monument out of Portland stone (sculptor Backhouse). In the center of the composition there is a wall with a symbolic image of military operations, in which an elephant, a camel and a horse participate. Bronze mules are heading toward her, heavily loaded.
Part of the wall has been torn apart, behind it are also visible a bronze horse and a dog - they are already in better world". A touching exposition imbued with love and admiration for faithful animals.
The bronze sculpture "Isis" is made in the image of the goddess of motherhood, who took the form of a bird.
An art gallery, the Serpentine, is open in the park. It presents unique exhibits created in the 20th-21st centuries.
Wellington Arch
St. James's Park
It is named in memory of the almshouse named after St. Jacob (James). St. James Park is located in the heart of London on an area of 23 hectares, formed on the site of the royal hunting grounds. This park was once a swamp, but Henry drained it to include this area in his royal hunting grounds. And he placed a menagerie with outlandish animals here. Charles II, who arrived from France after the restoration of the monarchy, remade the park in the manner of the Versailles gardens. The park was then designed by André Mollet. Charles II opened the park to the public and was himself a frequent visitor. From the bridge over the lake, you can admire two of the most magnificent views of London. From the north, St. James's Palace overlooks the park, from the west - Buckingham Palace, from the east - the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as the domes and towers of the National Liberal Club. To the south is Clarence House, former home queen mothers. It is currently the home of Prince Charles. Members often have picnics in the park royal family. It is famous for its collection of birds - more than 30 species live here. Even a colony of pelicans lives here - the Russian ambassador gave the first such bird for the park in 1664.
Hyde Park
Hyde Park, with an area of 1.4 km², is one of the royal parks in London, united among themselves into a single large green area in the very center of the city.
The history of the park began in 1536, when Henry VIII took away from Westminster Abbey his possession of Hyde (Menor of Hyde), whose name comes from an old measure of the area, and set up hunting grounds there. Since the 17th century, under King James I, Hyde Park, which at that time was the largest park in London, was open to the public. Under Charles II, the Rotten Row crossing the park, illuminated by the light of 300 oil lamps, became the main promenade of the capital, along which representatives of the English aristocracy walked in carriages between St. James's Palace and Kensington Palace. In 1730, the park acquired an artificial reservoir, shaped like a snake and nicknamed the Serpentine. Already in 1970, an art gallery of the same name, the Serpentine Gallery, opened in the park, introducing visitors to the art of the 20th–21st centuries.
In 1815, Hyde Park hosted a historic parade commemorating Wellington's victory over Napoleon. This event in Hyde Park today is commemorated by the 1822 statue of Achilles by sculptor Sir Richard Westmacott dedicated to Wellington, The Wellington Museum and Wellington Arch.
The famous Speakers' Corner is located in the northeastern part of the park. Since 1872, when a law was passed in England allowing everyone to gather and orate on any topic, including the discussion of royalty, this place in the park has not been empty. And today, every day from 12:00 from impromptu stands, you can hear the speeches of fiery speakers - from representatives of informal groups and young politicians to different kind eccentrics present in the park in abundance.
In 1851, the World's Fair was held in Hyde Park's Crystal Palace. Hyde Park has an attraction - the Animal Cemetery, which was arranged by the Duke of Cambridge after the death of his wife's favorite animals. There are about 300 stone gravestones of pets. The cemetery opens to the public once a year.
Today Hyde Park is a favorite vacation spot for citizens and visitors to London. In addition to water activities on the Serpentine Lake, the park has a racing circle and a place for horseback riding, there is a riding school. In the park, you can play tennis and bowling, go rollerblading along specially laid paths. A lot of people are attracted by spectacular events, including demonstrations, parades, concerts, gun salutes. It is allowed to walk on the grassy lawns of the park, ancient trees - elms, oaks and plane trees - create cozy shady alleys, under the canopy of which vacationers take refuge in the summer heat.
Green Park
Green Park, or Green Park, is one of London's Royal Parks. It covers an area of 53 acres (21 ha), located between London's Hyde Park and St. James's Park. Together with Kensington Gardens and the gardens of Buckingham Palace - almost continuous open area stretching from Whitehall and Victoria Station to Kensington and Notting Hill.
Unlike its neighbors, Green Park does not have any lakes. In addition, only the Monument to Canada Pierre Granche and the Fountain of Constance have. The entire territory of the park is overgrown meadows. The park is bordered to the south by Constitution Hill, to the east by pedestrian Royal Avenue, and to the north by Piccadilly. Meets St James's Park in the Royal Gardens with the Victoria Monument in the centre, opposite the entrance to Buckingham Palace. To the south is the ceremonial alley The Mall and the buildings of the Palace of St. James and Clarence House. Green Park underground station - large transport node, located in Piccadilly, Victoria, with another stop at the northern end of Royal Avenue.
Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park is an old hunting park in Greenwich and one of the largest green spaces in southeast London. One of London's Royal Parks and the first to be enclosed (in 1433), it covers an area of 183 acres (0.7 km2). From here open great views to the Thames, Isle of Dogs and Central London. The park is open from 6 am for pedestrians and from 7 am for vehicles throughout the day, and closes at dusk.
Geography
The park is a rectangle with sides of 1000 meters by 750 meters. The park stretches along the hillside and is located on two levels. The lower level (next to the Museum, the King's House and, behind them, the River Thames) is located to the north; Climbing up the steep slope of the hill, you find yourself on a wide platform.
Right in the center, on top of a hill, is the Greenwich Royal Observatory. To the north are the National Maritime Museum and the Royal House, and behind them is the Greenwich Hospital. To the west is Vanbruch Castle. To the south is Blackhes, and to the southwest is the Wanderer's House overlooking the wasteland. To the west lie several architecturally correct streets: Chesterfield Alley and Croom Hill.
Facilities
The lower level of the park contains a popular children's playground (northeast corner, next to Maze Hill tube station) and an adjacent lake with a boat station. There is also a herbarium here (next to the entrance to Greenwich centre).
On the upper level there is a flower garden with a pond and ducks, a garden with roses, a cricket field, many chestnut trees of the 17th century, a tennis court, a stage for an orchestra, Roman ruins, old oak(“Royal Oak”, in honor of Queen Elizabeth I) and a fenced reserve, where several wild deer live.
Regent's Park
Regent's Park is one of the most beautiful royal parks in central London's green belt. The park was opened to the public in 1838, and John Nash took care of its arrangement in 1812, who planned to build 40 villas on this territory in such a way that each of them was completely separate, and neighboring buildings were not visible. The palace, which was intended for the prince regent, was never completed, and only eight villas were built, while only three have survived to this day. The Queen Mary Gardens stand out in the park, famous for their many flower curtains and a magnificent rose garden.
During the summer, Regent Park hosts performances under open sky, music concerts. The park also houses the famous London Zoo.
Kensington Gardens
Kensington Gardens is one of London's Royal Parks, located to the west of Hyde Park. For the most part lies in the territory of Westminster, but a small western part belongs to the area of Kensington and Chelsea. The area of the park is 275 acres (1.1 km²).
The common space of Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, Green Park and St James' Park are collectively known as the "green lungs" in central London between Kensington and Westminster.
For generations of British children, the park is the setting for the Peter Pan book, the prelude to the famous story of Neverland. For the first time about the fairies of the garden, Thomas Tickels wrote in 1722 in the poem "Kensington Gardens". Both the book and the hero are immortalized by a statue of Peter Pan located in the park.
Chelsea Physic Garden
Chelsea Medical Garden is a large garden in London founded in 1673 by the London Apothecaries' Society. Today, the Chelsea Medical Garden with an area of 1.4 hectares is one of the best botanical gardens in England, it ranks second in terms of the number of green exhibits growing in it after the Oxford University Botanic Garden. In the Chelsea Medical Garden, you can see the oldest fruit-bearing olive trees in England, plants used in medicine and perfumery, rare aromatic herbs and spices. The garden has a chic rock garden, created from "40 tons of ancient stone, pebbles, chalk and lava."
London Zoo (London Zoo)
The London Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world. It is located in the West End, in the northern part of Regent's Park. It is administratively subordinate to the Zoological Society of London, which has been operating since 1826. The zoo was founded in April 1828, and was the first zoo created exclusively for scientific work. The doors of this institution were opened to the general public only in 1847. Visitors to the London Zoo were the first in the world to see the reptile pavilion (serpentarium) (1849), the oceanarium (1853), the insect pavilion (1881) and the first children's zoo (1938).
Some pavilions of the London Zoo are architectural monuments, for example, the Clock Tower (Clock Tower, 1828), originally built as a pavilion for llamas by the architect Burton, or the Giraffe House (Giraffe House, 1837) by the same architect.
The only quagga lived in the London Zoo - an exterminated artiodactyl, a subspecies of the zebra that was photographed, as well as the only marsupial Tasmanian wolf, another extinct mammal, about whose life the zoo even managed to make a movie. In addition, Europe saw the first hippo in the London Zoo. And when in 1880 the elephant Jumbo appeared at the zoo, his name became a household name in English language for very large items.
In 2001, elephants, rhinos and other large animals were transferred from London Zoo to Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire, also run by the Zoological Society of London. As of 2006, the London Zoo is home to 16,802 animals of 755 species.
Holland Park
Dutch Park is located in the west of Central London and is considered perhaps the most romantic place cities filled with lush vegetation and secluded corners.
The neighborhood of Holland Park is a fashionable area of London, with expensive villas and embassies of various foreign states.
The park was built in the 19th century on the lands of the former Jacobin estate. The center of the estate was the Dutch House mansion, which later gave its name to the park and the area around it.
The northern side of the Dutch Park is filled with lush vegetation, the central part is located around the ruins of the Dutch House, southern part designed for sports and entertainment. The ruins of the "Dutch House" form the end part of the building of the Dutch Park Opera House. The park also has its own greenhouse, a cricket field, several tennis courts, an elegant Japanese garden, and a play area for children.
Richmond Park
Richmond Park is a forested area in London, which was once the hunting grounds of Charles I. On the territory of the park of 1000 hectares there is a population of deer (650 individuals) living in natural environment a habitat. The park is home to many species of plants, different kinds birds and butterflies. You can walk in the park, go horseback riding or cycling, fishing in the lake is also offered, there are 2 golf courses. From Richmond Park open beautiful views in the old part of London.
Royal Botanic Gardens Kew (Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Gardens)
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Gardens, or Kew Gardens, is a landmark in southwest London, which is visited by about 2 million people annually. Kew Gardens, covering an area of 121 hectares, was founded in 1759 in Kew Park by Lord Tewkesbury. The Gardens were later enlarged and rebuilt on the orders of the Dowager Princess Augusta of Wales by the architect William Chambers.
One after another, architectural structures appeared in the Gardens that have survived to this day:
Kew Palace built in 1631 with its surroundings Royal Garden, the plants in which have been preserved since the 17th century. A separate entry ticket is required.
Chinese Pagoda (Chinese Pagoda) (1762), consisting of 10 octagonal block-floors and a staircase in the center of the structure.
Gallery Marianne North (Marianne North Gallery), built in 1880 in honor of the artist Marianne North, the only woman traveling at that time on her own in the North and South America and Asia. The collection contains 832 works by the artist.
Alpine House (1887) - a greenhouse with an alpine mountain climate.
Minka House - wooden house in the Japanese spirit, copying the building built in 1900 in the vicinity of Okazaki.
Chokushi-Mon - pavilion dedicated to the Japanese-British Exhibition (1910), a complete reconstruction of the gate of the Nishi Hongan-ji temple in Kyoto, surrounded by traditional Japanese gardens.
In addition to these buildings, the Gardens have the Water Lily House - a warm and humid pavilion with a large pond, Queen Charlotte's Cottage, Sackler Crossing Bridge, Shirley Sherwood Botanical Art Gallery.
Initially, exhibit plants for Kew Gardens were selected haphazardly, and only in 1771 the collection was grouped and described by the efforts of the managing collector, Francis Mason. In 1840, Kew Gardens received the status of a national botanical garden, and in 2003 they were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Today, the collection of Kew Botanical Gardens is one of the largest collections of living plants in the world, it contains more than 30 thousand plant species, and the herbarium - about 7 million specimens. Kew Gardens has a library of more than 750,000 volumes and about 175,000 plant illustrations. Every year the Gardens hosts the International Garden Photographer competition.
Victoria Park (Victoria Park, Vicky Park)
Victoria Park, or Wiki Park - big park located in East London. It was built in 1842–1846 on the site of the former episcopal estate of Stepney. In 1845 the park became open to the public. Today, Vicki Park is a very popular public place; music concerts and festivals, rallies and meetings are held on its green lawns. The park has an amusement area and a public swimming pool. In addition, the park is very popular with parents with children - there is a kids club One O'Clock with a small zoo corner.
As the Victoria Model Steam Boat Club, the oldest rowing club in the world, has been located in the park since 1904, about 17 Sunday regattas are held annually in the park.
Hampstead Meadow (The Heath)
Hampstead Meadow, or simply Hes, is the oldest and largest park in London, its territory exceeds 300 hectares. Hampstead Meadow is located on a hill and is a hilly area with ponds, green groves, gardens, sports fields.
On the territory of Lug there are 25 reservoirs, including lakes, ponds and pools. Among the sports facilities of the park - Treadmills, golf courses and tennis courts.
There is also a small zoo in an area called Golders Hill Park, where you can see parrots, herons, deer, red-footed chamois.
Battersea Park
Battersea Park is a large London park located on the south bank of the Thames and open to the general public in mid-nineteenth century. The park is known for its water garden with fountains and "Forest Avenue" - alleys connected by special platforms installed between the branches of trees. The park is a favorite vacation spot for Londoners and guests of the city - there you can ride roller skates, swings and carousels, play tennis or football, etc. In addition, the park often hosts fairs and exhibitions for tourists telling about the history of Battersea Park. In addition, there is a small zoo for children, a boat station, and an orchestra stage.
Osterley Park
Osterley Park is a large park located in the western suburbs of London. Its center is the mansion of the same name, erected by order of the banker Sir Thomas Gresham in XVI century and subsequently decorated in neoclassical style. Today, the mansion is available for visits, where you can see the original interiors of past times. The mansion is surrounded by a garden built in the 18th century. In Osterley Park there is a farm shop that sells fresh vegetables grown in nearby areas.
St. James's Park
It is named in memory of the almshouse named after St. Jacob (James). St. James Park is located in the heart of London on an area of 23 hectares, formed on the site of the royal hunting grounds. This park was once a swamp, but Henry drained it to include this area in his royal hunting grounds. And he placed a menagerie with outlandish animals here. Charles II, who arrived from France after the restoration of the monarchy, remade the park in the manner of the Versailles gardens. The park was then designed by André Mollet. Charles II opened the park to the public and was himself a frequent visitor. From the bridge over the lake, you can admire two of the most magnificent views of London. From the north, St. James's Palace overlooks the park, from the west - Buckingham Palace, from the east - the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as the domes and towers of the National Liberal Club. To the south is Clarence House, the former home of the Queen Mother. It is currently the home of Prince Charles. Members of the royal family often have picnics in the park. It is famous for its collection of birds - more than 30 species live here. Even a colony of pelicans lives here - the Russian ambassador gave the first such bird for the park in 1664.
Hyde Park
Hyde Park, with an area of 1.4 km², is one of the royal parks in London, united among themselves into a single large green area in the very center of the city.
The history of the park began in 1536, when Henry VIII took away from Westminster Abbey his possession of Hyde (Menor of Hyde), whose name comes from an old measure of the area, and set up hunting grounds there. Since the 17th century, under King James I, Hyde Park, which at that time was the largest park in London, was open to the public. Under Charles II, the Rotten Row crossing the park, illuminated by the light of 300 oil lamps, became the main promenade of the capital, along which representatives of the English aristocracy walked in carriages between St. James's Palace and Kensington Palace. In 1730, the park acquired an artificial reservoir, shaped like a snake and nicknamed the Serpentine. Already in 1970, an art gallery of the same name, the Serpentine Gallery, opened in the park, introducing visitors to the art of the 20th–21st centuries.
In 1815, Hyde Park hosted a historic parade commemorating Wellington's victory over Napoleon. This event in Hyde Park today is commemorated by the 1822 statue of Achilles by sculptor Sir Richard Westmacott dedicated to Wellington, The Wellington Museum and Wellington Arch.
The famous Speakers' Corner is located in the northeastern part of the park. Since 1872, when a law was passed in England allowing everyone to gather and orate on any topic, including the discussion of royalty, this place in the park has not been empty. And today, every day from 12:00 from the impromptu stands, you can hear the performances of fiery speakers - from representatives of informal groups and young politicians to all sorts of eccentrics present in the park in abundance.
In 1851, the World's Fair was held in Hyde Park's Crystal Palace. Hyde Park has an attraction - the Animal Cemetery, which was arranged by the Duke of Cambridge after the death of his wife's favorite animals. There are about 300 stone gravestones of pets. The cemetery opens to the public once a year.
Today Hyde Park is a favorite vacation spot for citizens and visitors to London. In addition to water activities on the Serpentine Lake, the park has a racing circle and a place for horseback riding, there is a riding school. In the park, you can play tennis and bowling, go rollerblading along specially laid paths. A lot of people are attracted by spectacular events, including demonstrations, parades, concerts, gun salutes. It is allowed to walk on the grassy lawns of the park, ancient trees - elms, oaks and plane trees - create cozy shady alleys, under the canopy of which vacationers take refuge in the summer heat.
Green Park
Green Park, or Green Park, is one of London's Royal Parks. It covers an area of 53 acres (21 ha), located between London's Hyde Park and St. James's Park. Together with Kensington Gardens and the gardens of Buckingham Palace, it is an almost continuous open area stretching from Whitehall and Victoria Station to Kensington and Notting Hill.
Unlike its neighbors, Green Park does not have any lakes. In addition, only the Monument to Canada Pierre Granche and the Fountain of Constance have. The entire territory of the park is overgrown meadows. The park is bordered to the south by Constitution Hill, to the east by pedestrian Royal Avenue, and to the north by Piccadilly. Meets St James's Park in the Royal Gardens with the Victoria Monument in the centre, opposite the entrance to Buckingham Palace. To the south is the ceremonial alley The Mall and the buildings of the Palace of St. James and Clarence House. Green Park Underground Station is a major transport hub located in Piccadilly, Victoria, with another stop at the northern end of Royal Avenue.
Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park is an old hunting park in Greenwich and one of the largest green spaces in southeast London. One of London's Royal Parks and the first to be enclosed (in 1433), it covers an area of 183 acres (0.7 km2). From here you have great views of the Thames, the Isle of Dogs and Central London. The park is open from 6 am for pedestrians and from 7 am for vehicles throughout the day, and closes at dusk.
Geography
The park is a rectangle with sides of 1000 meters by 750 meters. The park stretches along the hillside and is located on two levels. The lower level (next to the Museum, the King's House and, behind them, the River Thames) is located to the north; Climbing up the steep slope of the hill, you find yourself on a wide platform.
Right in the center, on top of a hill, is the Greenwich Royal Observatory. To the north are the National Maritime Museum and the Royal House, and behind them is the Greenwich Hospital. To the west is Vanbruch Castle. To the south is Blackhes, and to the southwest is the Wanderer's House overlooking the wasteland. To the west lie several architecturally correct streets: Chesterfield Alley and Croom Hill.
Facilities
The lower level of the park contains a popular children's playground (northeast corner, next to Maze Hill tube station) and an adjacent lake with a boat station. There is also a herbarium here (next to the entrance to Greenwich centre).
On the upper level there is a flower garden with a pond and ducks, a garden with roses, a cricket field, many chestnut trees from the 17th century, a tennis court, a bandstand, Roman ruins, an old oak (“Royal Oak”, in honor of Queen Elizabeth I) and a fenced sanctuary where a few wild deer live.
Regent's Park
Regent's Park is one of the most beautiful royal parks in central London's green belt. The park was opened to the public in 1838, and John Nash took care of its arrangement in 1812, who planned to build 40 villas on this territory in such a way that each of them was completely separate, and neighboring buildings were not visible. The palace, which was intended for the prince regent, was never completed, and only eight villas were built, while only three have survived to this day. The Queen Mary Gardens stand out in the park, famous for their many flower curtains and a magnificent rose garden.
In summer, Regent Park hosts open-air performances and music concerts. The park also houses the famous London Zoo.
Kensington Gardens
Kensington Gardens is one of London's Royal Parks, located to the west of Hyde Park. For the most part lies in the territory of Westminster, but a small western part belongs to the area of Kensington and Chelsea. The area of the park is 275 acres (1.1 km²).
The common space of Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, Green Park and St James' Park are collectively known as the "green lungs" in central London between Kensington and Westminster.
For generations of British children, the park is the setting for the Peter Pan book, the prelude to the famous story of Neverland. For the first time about the fairies of the garden, Thomas Tickels wrote in 1722 in the poem "Kensington Gardens". Both the book and the hero are immortalized by a statue of Peter Pan located in the park.
Chelsea Physic Garden
Chelsea Medical Garden is a large garden in London founded in 1673 by the London Apothecaries' Society. Today, the Chelsea Medical Garden with an area of 1.4 hectares is one of the best botanical gardens in England, it ranks second in terms of the number of green exhibits growing in it after the Oxford University Botanic Garden. In the Chelsea Medical Garden, you can see the oldest fruit-bearing olive trees in England, plants used in medicine and perfumery, rare aromatic herbs and spices. The garden has a chic rock garden, created from "40 tons of ancient stone, pebbles, chalk and lava."
London Zoo (London Zoo)
The London Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world. It is located in the West End, in the northern part of Regent's Park. It is administratively subordinate to the Zoological Society of London, which has been operating since 1826. The zoo was founded in April 1828, and was the first zoo created exclusively for scientific work. The doors of this institution were opened to the general public only in 1847. Visitors to the London Zoo were the first in the world to see the reptile pavilion (serpentarium) (1849), the oceanarium (1853), the insect pavilion (1881) and the first children's zoo (1938).
Some pavilions of the London Zoo are architectural monuments, for example, the Clock Tower (Clock Tower, 1828), originally built as a pavilion for llamas by the architect Burton, or the Giraffe House (Giraffe House, 1837) by the same architect.
The only quagga lived in the London Zoo - an exterminated artiodactyl, a subspecies of the zebra that was photographed, as well as the only marsupial Tasmanian wolf, another extinct mammal, about whose life the zoo even managed to make a movie. In addition, Europe saw the first hippo in the London Zoo. And when the elephant Jumbo appeared at the zoo in 1880, his name became a household name in English for very large objects.
In 2001, elephants, rhinos and other large animals were transferred from London Zoo to Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire, also run by the Zoological Society of London. As of 2006, the London Zoo is home to 16,802 animals of 755 species.
Holland Park
Dutch Park is located in the west of central London and is considered perhaps the most romantic place in the city, filled with lush vegetation and secluded corners.
The neighborhood of Holland Park is a fashionable area of London, with expensive villas and embassies of various foreign countries.
The park was built in the 19th century on the lands of the former Jacobin estate. The center of the estate was the Dutch House mansion, which later gave its name to the park and the area around it.
The northern side of the Dutch Park is filled with lush vegetation, the central part is located around the ruins of the "Dutch House", the southern part is intended for sports and entertainment. The ruins of the "Dutch House" form the end part of the building of the Dutch Park Opera House. The park also has its own greenhouse, a cricket field, several tennis courts, an elegant Japanese garden, and a play area for children.
Richmond Park
Richmond Park is a forested area in London, which was once the hunting grounds of Charles I. On the territory of the park of 1000 hectares there is a population of deer (650 individuals) living in their natural habitat. The park is home to many species of plants, various species of birds and butterflies. You can walk in the park, go horseback riding or cycling, fishing in the lake is also offered, there are 2 golf courses. Richmond Park offers beautiful views of the old part of London.
Royal Botanic Gardens Kew (Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Gardens)
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Gardens, or Kew Gardens, is a landmark in southwest London, which is visited by about 2 million people annually. Kew Gardens, covering an area of 121 hectares, was founded in 1759 in Kew Park by Lord Tewkesbury. The Gardens were later enlarged and rebuilt on the orders of the Dowager Princess Augusta of Wales by the architect William Chambers.
One after another, architectural structures appeared in the Gardens that have survived to this day:
Kew Palace (Kew Palace) built in 1631 with the Royal Garden surrounding it, the plants in which have been preserved since the 17th century. A separate entry ticket is required.
Chinese Pagoda (Chinese Pagoda) (1762), consisting of 10 octagonal block-floors and a staircase in the center of the structure.
Gallery Marianne North (Marianne North Gallery), built in 1880 in honor of the artist Marianne North, the only woman traveling at that time on her own in North and South America and Asia. The collection contains 832 works by the artist.
Alpine House (1887) - a greenhouse with an alpine mountain climate.
The Minka House is a Japanese-inspired wooden house replicating a 1900 building in the Okazaki area.
Chokushi-Mon - pavilion dedicated to the Japanese-British Exhibition (1910), a complete reconstruction of the gate of the Nishi Hongan-ji temple in Kyoto, surrounded by traditional Japanese gardens.
In addition to these buildings, the Gardens have the Water Lily House - a warm and humid pavilion with a large pond, Queen Charlotte's Cottage, Sackler Crossing Bridge, Shirley Sherwood Botanical Art Gallery.
Initially, exhibit plants for Kew Gardens were selected haphazardly, and only in 1771 the collection was grouped and described by the efforts of the managing collector, Francis Mason. In 1840, Kew Gardens received the status of a national botanical garden, and in 2003 they were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Today, the collection of Kew Botanical Gardens is one of the largest collections of living plants in the world, it contains more than 30 thousand plant species, and the herbarium - about 7 million specimens. Kew Gardens has a library of more than 750,000 volumes and about 175,000 plant illustrations. Every year the Gardens hosts the International Garden Photographer competition.
Victoria Park (Victoria Park, Vicky Park)
Victoria Park, or Vicki Park, is a large park located in East London. It was built in 1842–1846 on the site of the former episcopal estate of Stepney. In 1845 the park became open to the public. Today, Vicki Park is a very popular public place; music concerts and festivals, rallies and meetings are held on its green lawns. The park has an amusement area and a public swimming pool. In addition, the park is very popular with parents with children - there is a One O'Clock kids club with a small zoo corner.
As the Victoria Model Steam Boat Club, the oldest rowing club in the world, has been located in the park since 1904, about 17 Sunday regattas are held annually in the park.
Hampstead Meadow (The Heath)
Hampstead Meadow, or simply Hes, is the oldest and largest park in London, its territory exceeds 300 hectares. Hampstead Meadow is located on a hill and is a hilly area with ponds, green groves, gardens, sports fields.
On the territory of Lug there are 25 reservoirs, including lakes, ponds and pools. The park's sports facilities include running tracks, golf courses and tennis courts.
There is also a small zoo in an area called Golders Hill Park, where you can see parrots, herons, deer, red-footed chamois.
Battersea Park
Battersea Park is a large London park located on the south bank of the Thames and opened to the general public in the middle of the 19th century. The park is known for its water garden with fountains and "Forest Avenue" - alleys connected by special platforms installed between the branches of trees. The park is a favorite vacation spot for Londoners and guests of the city - there you can ride roller skates, swings and carousels, play tennis or football, etc. In addition, the park often hosts fairs and exhibitions for tourists telling about the history of Battersea Park. In addition, there is a small zoo for children, a boat station, and an orchestra stage.
Osterley Park
Osterley Park is a large park located in the western suburbs of London. Its center is the mansion of the same name, built by order of the banker Sir Thomas Gresham in the 16th century and subsequently decorated in a neoclassical style. Today, the mansion is available for visits, where you can see the original interiors of past times. The mansion is surrounded by a garden built in the 18th century. Osterley Park has a farmer's shop that sells fresh vegetables grown in the surrounding area.
Despite the fact that London is a modern urban city, built up with countless residential and commercial buildings, there are plenty of green areas for recreation. cities always remain green and become the main place for outdoor recreation for all citizens and tourists. So, we will talk about the five largest and most interesting parks in the capital. Some of them are easy to visit along the way, exploring the city on a sightseeing bus
Hyde Park
(Hyde Park) - 2.5 km long and 1.8 km wide, considered one of the largest royal parks in the city in the west of central London, where members of the royal family hunted in the 16th century, and it was impossible for ordinary residents to get into in this park until the middle of the 19th century. In the lower corner of the park is the oldest London lake for boating, which is now chosen by ducks, grebes, swans and other birds. The park has enough paths and areas for skaters, bikers and riders who enjoy using them. At the northern gate there is a fountain, which on hot days is always full of cool people. carousels and attractions are installed, and the park turns into a winter center of festive fun, with its own Santa Claus.
Regent's Park
Regent's Park is one of the most beloved places in London in the north-west of the center. Like Hyde Park, Regents was the private hunting ground of Henry VIII and only became public in 1845. This park is home to the famous London Zoo, as well as the Open Theatre. In addition, Regents hosts various music, food and boat festivals. The park is dotted with 30,000 rose gardens, tennis courts, ice cream parlors and cafes. In 2010, a children's tree house was built at the gates of Hanover Gate near the playground, which makes Regents especially attractive to its youngest visitors.
Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath ) - a wild and dense park in the north of the city differs sharply from the clipped lawns and well-groomed flower beds of the central parks. On the territory of 320 hectares of the park stretched forests, playgrounds, ponds and uncut meadows. hot summer time you can plunge into the park ponds, or just take a walk among the wild thickets. In addition, from just one of the slopes of the hill on which this park is located, an unusually breathtaking view of the center of London opens up.
Victoria Park
Victoria Park is the eastern royal park, the favorite park of all children, with swings and interesting playgrounds for children's creative games. There are many animals in the park - deer, grouse, Canadian geese, squirrels. There is a cafe by the lake with delicious local cuisine and tea.
St. James Park
St. James's Park is another central royal park that is adjacent to Green Park and offers excellent views of Buckingham Palace. One or more of this park are pelicans, which were presented by the Russian ambassador in the 17th century. They are fed daily from 2.30 to 3.00, but they themselves are not averse to catching a couple of pigeons for lunch. On the south side of the park is the Museum of the Guard, to the east - the cavalry.
Have a good rest, and remember that Londoners cherish their green areas and living creatures with extreme care and absolutely do not tolerate disrespect for their nature. Be attentive to the signs and inscriptions, and relax at your pleasure.
The capital of Great Britain is one of the greenest cities in Europe, which is not surprising, because over 15% of the area of this metropolis is occupied by green spaces. In total, the parks and gardens of London occupy a total of about 5,000 hectares.
The city owes its abundance of green spaces to the history of the settlement of its territories. Since ancient times, the expanses of the modern capital were royal hunting grounds and small settlements. Over time, the settlements merged into one modern metropolis, and the space of royal forests and gardens remained inviolable until the 17th century, when the aristocracy was allowed to visit the parks. A little later, in the 19th century, ordinary residents were able to visit the parks of London.
Now the Royal Parks of London is a favorite vacation spot for both citizens and tourists. There are eight Royal Parks in the city. total area which is slightly over 2 hectares. The British are very fond of their nature and try to keep large spaces in their original form, only slightly modifying them for the convenience of walking.
Richmond Park - London's largest park. Here, in the open spaces of over 1000 hectares, deer, many species of birds and insects live in natural conditions. All the variety of English flora is widely represented in Richmond Park. Here you can ride bicycles, horses, visit two amazing golf courses or go fishing on the picturesque lake.
Bushy Park is the second largest Royal Park London. It was originally created for royal sports, and today this park is the sports center of the capital. Rugby, hockey and cricket clubs are located here. There are numerous mini-cafes, sports grounds and a children's playground for visitors to the park.
Perhaps - This is the most famous park in London. This park has earned worldwide fame for the “Speaker's Corner” located in it, where absolutely any citizen has the right to publicly express his point of view on any issue that concerns him. Here is located picturesque lake Serpentine, where you can swim. From the west, Kensington Gardens adjoin Hyde Park, which received the status of a park in 1728. Here on west bank Serpentine Lake is home to the eponymous art gallery, famous for its exhibitions and the amazing architecture of temporary pavilions, for the design of which the management of the gallery holds an annual competition among architects around the world. 
In London it is considered the oldest park. It is located within walking distance of Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. This is one of the most visited parks in Europe. The park has special playgrounds. More than 15 species of various birds, including pelicans, and countless squirrels, who feel like mistresses and are not at all afraid of people, live on the territory of St. James Park.
Green Park is the smallest of the eight Royal Parks in London. It is located between St. James Park and Hyde Park. The park covers over 20 hectares. This is a delightful green island between Piccadilly and Buckingham Palace. This place is extremely popular among lovers of picnics and sunbathing during the warm days of the English summer.
regent's park located near the metro station of the same name. The abundance of sports grounds, picturesque spaces and cozy cafes will appeal to visitors of any age. In addition, the London Zoo is located on the territory of the park, a visit to which must be included in the program. family vacation in the British capital.
greenwich park, located in southeast London, is one of the most interesting parks in the capital. The park owes its name to the Greenwich meridian, which runs through the courtyard of the Royal Observatory and separates the eastern and western hemispheres. Musical evenings are regularly held in the park and theatrical performances, and in the middle of spring, the Greenwich Meridian Festival is celebrated here with folk festivals.
Each of the Royal Parks has its own history, features and attractions. Residents of London are very fond of the natural oases of the capital of Great Britain for their unique atmosphere and picturesque views.
