Hyde Park is to Londoners what Central Park is to New Yorkers – the beating heart of the city and a source of immense pride. The biggest green space in the centre of the capital, this royal park is home to endless historical landmarks, outdoor activities and beauty spots, and as such is a must-visit whenever you’re in the city.
A Brief History of Hyde Park: What Makes It So Famous?
Originally built as a hunting ground for King Henry VIII in 1531 (he’d probably only catch a handful of tourists these days), over time it transitioned into being a public park, after first King James I granted limited access, before it was fully opened to the great unwashed from 1637 onwards by King Charles (probably one of the only sensible things he did, to be honest).
Things to Do Near Hyde Park: From Deckchairs to the Princess Diana Memorial
And what use we’ve made of it! You can rent a deckchair and sunbathe; see a gig as part of the British Summertime Festival; head to an outdoor film screening; swim or boat in the Serpentine; take in Princess Diana’s memorial; play a game of tennis; push your kids on the swings at the playground; witness a rant at Speakers’ Corner and even go horse riding – it’s truly got it all. And you’re also close to a plethora of other cultural sites too, such as the National History Museum, V&A or Royal Albert Hall, not to mention shopping meccas like Knightsbridge and Oxford Street.
Where Is Hyde Park? How to Get There and What’s Nearby
Speaking of its location, its sheer size (350 acres) means it is served by multiple tube stations, making it within easy walking distance of Hyde Park Corner, Marble Arch, Lancaster Gate and Knightsbridge stations. What’s more, it’s also handily located for a handful of our pubs, something which makes it even more appealing in our opinion. After all, when you’re thinking of the quintessential London day out, Hyde Park and a trip to the pub are probably of an equal weighting.
The Alfred Tennyson: A Belgravia Pub Near Hyde Park Corner
Head to The Alfred Tennyson in Belgravia after spending time in the southwest of the park, near the Serpentine. There’s certainly no better way to celebrate a successful swim in the lake or a boat trip date than with a pint and a few snacks (the Black Pudding Scotch Egg and Pork Scratchings are particular favourites), before perhaps heading upstairs to first-floor restaurant Alf’s for a relaxed dinner of Oysters to share followed by Steak and Triple Cooked Chips.
Fuel Up at The Barley Mow: A Pub Near Hyde Park for Breakfast or Afternoon Pints
Another option is to fuel your day with a classic pub breakfast beforehand. The Barley Mow, located to the west of Hyde Park, is a great shout for this, with its huge plate of Cumberland Sausage, Sugar Pit-Cured Bacon, Roast Tomato, Cacklebean Eggs, Rosti Potato and homemade Baked Beans. Afterwards, head to Speakers’ Corner and learn about its revolutionary history (the likes of Emmeline Pankhurst and Karl Marx tried to convert the masses here), before wandering straight across the grass to the Serpentine. If you’ve got tickets for British Summertime, then definitely do pre-drinks here as well – it’s the perfect pitstop en route to the music from Green Park.
The Grazing Goat: Laid-Back Dining Near Hyde Park in Marylebone
In Marylebone, to the north-west of the park, you’ll find The Grazing Goat, another option for a hearty breakfast, lunch or dinner. Personally, we love heading here for its outstanding Sunday lunch of Roast Angus Beef Rump or Roast Porchetta, after a morning spent on the playground or the tennis courts with the kids, followed by a slow walk after dinner to let everything digest. It’s the perfect wholesome weekend itinerary.
Book your breakfast, lunch or dinner at one of Cubitt House’s pubs near Hyde Park now as part of your quintessential London day out.
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