Top 5: Best Things to Do in Hyde ParkBy Angelica Malin
Hyde Park is one of the most beautiful areas of London and, of course there is plenty to do and see around the fabulous green oasis in the centre of the bustling capital. But if you are unfamiliar with the area, it may be hard to choose how to spend your time. Travel guides will point you in the direction of the must-see places like Kensington Palace and Gardens, but here are a few other locations that are well worth making a stop to on your visit to this idyllic haven in England’s most glorious city.
The Grosvenor Victoria Casino
Nowadays most people prefer to gamble online, and classic games like blackjack have embraced the digital landscape fully. To highlight just how far these classic games have come, fans of the card game can now play online bitcoin blackjack using the futuristic cryptocurrency.
But before the digital market became so popular, people used to go to brick-and-mortar casinos to get their fix. For fans of gambling, a visit to the “London Vic” will provide plenty of nostalgia. It is better known for poker than blackjack, though, and any UK poker player worth his salt has played in the famous halls.
Speaker’s Corner
Speaker’s Corner is located in the northeast edges of Hyde Park opposite Maple Arch. It is a place where anyone can meet up and engage in open debate on any topics they wish, from politics to religion, as long as they are lawful. Not only is it a whereabouts of public discussion, it has also been used as a site of mass gathering and protest in England.
Famous influential thinkers to have frequented the spot include Karl Marx, George Orwell, and C.L.R James. Get down during a planned event to really soak up the atmosphere of this historical location.
Hyde Park Riding Stables
For lovers of all things equestrian, a visit to the world-renowned riding stables at Bathurst Mews is essential. They are more than 300 years old and are still held in high regard as one of the most supreme riding centres in England. Visitors can turn up and go for a five-mile ride around the Serpentine or sign up for riding lessons. It’s an outdoor arena and the lessons range from beginner to advanced riders. Ponies are also available for children.
Serpentine Lake
Photographer Credit : Ed Reeve
One of the most chilling places to just kick back and relax in the area is Serpentine Lake. You could just check out the wildlife and grab a drink in the Serpentine Café, but more active travellers may like to take a swim or rent a paddle boat to float around on.
The lake has famously been used for triathlon and swimming events at the 2012 Olympics, and Swim Serpentine is a two-day open water event in the summer.
When you come to visit London’s inner-city gem there will be plenty of things for you to do. Make sure to check out these spots and also consider Hyde Park Corner, the Serpentine Galleries, and the Albert Memorial.
