Pulsating with an unmistakably cosmopolitan energy, the global metropolis of London is most commonly associated with its characteristic hustle and bustle. Amidst the fast-paced lifestyle here, visitors will be pleased to discover a 5,000-acre oasis of royal parks. Known as the lungs of the city, London’s eight majestic Royal Parks range from the 1,000-acre expanse of Bushy Park to the 47-acre Green Park.
Cared for by the Royal Parks Charity, these verdant retreats are open to all, offering solace and rejuvenation amidst the urban bustle. Here, you can escape the rush of the city and experience the kind of tranquillity only available in wide open spaces. Each park boasts unique landscapes teeming with diverse flora and fauna, allowing visitors to wander in leisure and marvel at nature’s bounty.
The best way to access these parks is with a car hire in the UK from Dollar Car Rental. With your vehicle’s freedom, you can comfortably navigate London’s sprawling royal parks.
Here are the eight royal parks of London you can visit in your rental car.
1. Hyde Park
Nestled in the heart of Westminster, this expansive park spans over 340 acres and is flanked by Kensington Gardens to the west and Mayfair to the east. A standout feature is its large, curved lake, the Serpentine, which it shares with Kensington Gardens.
The first royal park to open to the public in 1637, Hyde Park holds a rich history. The iconic Speaker’s Corner has hosted speeches from notable figures like Karl Marx and George Orwell. The park was also the site of the Great Exhibition of 1851, which attracted over 6 million visitors.
Today, it remains a vibrant community hub. The area that once hosted the Great Exhibition is now a sports pitch where you can book a round of tennis or a game of football.
2. Richmond Park
Richmond Park, London’s largest Site of Special Scientific Interest and a National Nature Reserve, offers visitors a true escape from city life. This famous park in London features the scenic 7-mile Tamsin Trail, ideal for joggers and hikers, and the vibrant Isabella Plantation, renowned for its bright azaleas, making it a favourite among nature enthusiasts.
For those seeking a leisurely break, Pembroke Lodge offers gracious tea rooms and a breathtaking view of the Thames Valley. Just an hour’s drive from Eleanor Cross, Richmond Park is the perfect destination for a relaxing day trip.
3. Greenwich Park
Originally a hunting ground of Henry VIII during the 16th century, King Charles II converted Greenwich Park into a formal Baroque landscape by enlisting the talents of the renowned artist André Le Nôtre, who designed the Palace of Versailles.
This royal park is rich in history, with landmarks such as a Roman Temple and an Anglo-Saxon cemetery. It also boasts modern attractions like the Royal Observatory, the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time, and the Maritime Museum. Further, the Greenwich Park Playground makes it the perfect destination for families.
4. St James Park
St James Park is one of the famous parks in London that offers something for everyone, from the spectacle of royal ceremonies like Changing the Guard to serene picnics at the bandstand. This popular park never feels overcrowded, even on sunny lunch breaks. Enjoy a sandwich from a kiosk, hire a deckchair for an afternoon, or explore historical sites like Duck Island Cottage and the Storey’s Gate Café.
The park is also known for its wildlife, particularly the daily pelican feedings at 2:30 p.m. Bird enthusiasts can spot various water-loving birds, from ducks to black swans, around the lake, which has been a focus of conservation efforts.
5. Bushy Park
With its rolling grasslands, wild deer, and tranquil water features, Bushy Park offers a perfect escape from the city. As the second largest Royal Park, its history spans over a thousand years, featuring free-roaming deer since King Henry VIII’s time.
For the active visitor, Bushy Park is home to the original Parkrun and offers various sports facilities, including tennis courts, football, cricket, and year-round swimming at Hampton Pool. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s ancient trees and diverse species, while the elegant Diana Fountain and peaceful Waterhouse Woodland Gardens provide scenic spots for relaxation. The recently revamped Bushy Park Playground near the Hampton Court entrance is perfect for families.
6. The Regent’s Park & Primrose Hill
Regent’s Park boasts London’s largest collection of outdoor sports pitches, Britain’s oldest outdoor theatre, and the world’s oldest scientific zoo. Its Regency architecture and lush gardens, especially Queen Mary’s Gardens, make it a local favourite. Here, you can discover diverse gardens, from the famous rose garden to the Wildlife Garden and Allotment Garden. Four playgrounds and activities like pedalo rides and zip-lining ensure fun for everyone.
7. The Green Park
The Green Park is London’s smallest Royal Park. Despite its size, it holds an impressive history. Once devoid of flowers due to a royal spat, today, it’s a lush haven with flowering meadows, attracting visitors with its mesmerising daffodils display in spring and peaceful green lawns.
Here, you can explore poignant memorials like the Bomber Command Memorial and Canada Memorial, honouring those lost in World Wars, take a calming stroll along tree-lined paths, or even enjoy a picnic.
8. Kensington Gardens
Originally part of Kensington Palace, this stunning park is a feast for the senses. Stroll through majestic vistas, vibrant flower walks that have inspired countless artists, and historic tree-lined avenues. Explore the famous Italian Gardens and the grand Albert Memorial, immersing yourself in history as you take in the beauty around you. Kensington Gardens is also home to the iconic Princess Diana Memorial Statue, unveiled in 2021, adding a touch of contemporary significance to this royal haven.
Final Thoughts
These famous parks in London, England, attract millions of visitors every year. You can make your way to each of these with the ease of a car rental in London, UK. Dollar Car Rental offers you a fleet of vehicles, ranging from compact and mini to full-size, including electric and automatic options.
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and spend a day amidst beautifully manicured lawns and sprawling foliage. Visit Dollar Car Rental’s website to learn more.
