The largest of London's Royal Parks, Hyde Park has long been at the very heart of London life, with its 350 grassy
acres providing a natural venue for a spot of sunbathing, as well as national celebrations, protests, rallies and
rock concerts. There are a number of marvellous Hyde Park hotels dotted around the perimeter, some bordering Kensington Gardens, which sits adjacent to the park.
Potted History of Hyde Park
Hyde Park's royal history begins with Henry VIII, who purchased it from Westminster Abbey's monks in 1536 and used
it as a hunting ground. Monarchs continued to do this for the next hundred years, before Charles I granted the
public full access to the park in 1637. It has experienced many highs and lows since then.
In 1814 Hyde Park was the setting for a great celebration to mark the end of the Napoleonic wars, while 1977 saw a
Silver Jubilee Exhibition held in honour of the Queen. However, it has also been the scene of violent clashes
between the police and the Reform League in the 1860s.
These days, people visit for a restful walk or a pedal-boating trip across the Serpentine Lake. Streets such as Park
Lane and Knightsbridge run along the edges of the park, while Bayswater is to the North, meaning the range of Hyde
Park hotels available has the potential to suit all tastes.
Getting to Hyde Park
The reason Hyde Park is such a popular location is because it is so central, and due to its size it borders many areas of London, including Kensington, Mayfair, Bayswater and Park Lane. You can find out about this in more detail on our
blog. What this means is that your chosen Hyde Park hotel will influence where you need to be, so rather than just guide you to the park, here are the various
tube stations found around the edge.
Running along the north side of the park on the Central Line, Queensway and Lancaster Gate provide access to Bayswater, while Marble Arch leads into Marylebone and the West End. Paddington rail station is your nearest overground service. Down on the south border, Hyde Park Corner and Knightsbridge are both on the Piccadilly Line and are close to Mayfair, Belgravia and Buckingham Palace.
Hyde Park Pubs and Bars
As far as pubs and bars go, most of the more welcoming establishments are found on the north side of the park. To find a nice place in Kensington or Mayfair, you will have to venture further away from the park. However, in Bayswater and Paddington you have two reliable Fuller's pubs in
The Swan and
The Victoria. This local brewery is most famous for producing the well-known London Pride ale, but their selection varies well beyond that.
For something completely different, head west toward Notting Hill and the far end of Kensington Gardens to seek out
The Mall Tavern. A superb gastro pub, this is ideal for a refreshing ale alongside a well cooked and tempting menu of interesting dishes.
Hyde Park Restaurants
Naturally, with a border passing through so many areas of London, dining options are varied around Hyde Park.
La Porte des Indes offers a fascinating culinary experience, where a familiar Indian menu is supplemented by classic dishes from the Indian-French colonies, all just a short walk from Marble Arch. The
Orangery Restaurant near Kensington Palace is a superb venue for an elegant afternoon tea.
Of course, if you really want to treat yourself, it would be hard not to notice
Le Gavroche just off Park Lane. The double Michelin-starred restaurant was world renowned even before owner Michel Roux Jr began appearing on our television screens, with the Roux family enjoying one of the most prestigious reputations in the culinary world. Unsurprisingly, a meal here will certainly make your wallet a lot lighter, but it will be worth it.
Hyde Park Parking
There are plenty of
NCP car parks to use around the edge of Hyde Park, ranging from £4 to £8 an hour depending on where you want to leave your vehicle.