The Ultimate Hyde Park Guide

Hyde Park in London

One of London’s most renowned park, the Hyde Park, is almost on every traveler’s itinerary. As deserving as it is, many do not know about its history and how it formed. Let’s begin with a little background story

You can also read: Find Your Zen at Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden

About Hyde Park  

Initially, Hyde Park was a hunting ground owned by King Henry VIII. It was made open to the public in 1637 by King Charles I. After his reign, the park was completely renovated by Queen Caroline in the 1730s, some of its ground works still stand still today. The Queen also constructed The Serpentine, that marks the boundaries of the Kensington gardens and Hyde Park today.

The park is also a favorite spot for picnics as it has vast lush green lands and blooming flora that refreshes the mind, body, and spirit. In-fact Londoners often visit Hyde Park and stay in budget hotels in Kensington for affordable long stays in London. Hyde Park is full of adventure and a nice outing spot for your all-day.

Highlights of the Park

Hyde Park is a place for all. Whether a group of friends, a whole family or a solo soul, everyone can find their sweet spot here.It is also a great picnic place if bring a good company with refreshing snacks!With that being said, the park is packed full of events and activities all year around. Some of them are mentioned below:

Speaker’s Corner

This area catches the attention of almost every single person passing by. This is a traditional spot for speeches and debates since the 1800s. As this is a public park, this spot is open to anyone who may wish to express their thoughts out aloud. Many notable personalities such as George Orwell, Vladimir Lenin, and Karl Marx have shared this space.

The Queen Elizabeth Gate

Taken as the pride of the Hyde Park, the Queen Elizabeth Gate was installed to commemorate the Queen’s 90^th birthday. The gate was designed by Giuseppe Lund who laid out the design of the forged steel in manner that reflected Queen Mother’s admiration for flowers. These gates were officially opened in 1993 by Queen Elizabeth II. If you feel like visiting the royal palace after admiring this beautiful structure, head towards the Westminster end of the park and visit the Buckingham Palace.

The Rose Garden

The Rose Garden was opened to the public in 1994, and was designed by architects Moggridge and Colvin. This charming spot of Hyde Park not only has blooming roses but also a variety of other floral species. Visit this spot in the mid-summer to witness the true beauty of the roses. Bring along a picnic basket and enjoy your peaceful time amidst these beautiful creations.

How to Get to Hyde Park

Due to its location, Hyde Park is high accessible by all public transports. You can either travel by train, bus or tubes, getting here is extremely easy. You can get an easy access to Hyde Park from Park City Grand Plaza Kensington via London Tube

By train: London Paddington (10 minutes’ walk-away)

By bus: Almost all buses have a stop here and would cost you a flat rate of £15.5

By tube: One of the fastest ways to get here is the tube. If you’re near the Piccadilly, then hop on to the (blue) line that will drop you off at Knightsbridge or the Hyde Park Corner. Another tube that goes around here is the red line that moves from Central London to Marble Arch Station or Lancaster Gate.

Conclusion

Now that we’ve listed ways to get here, and also pointed out some of the park’s best spots; this place is perfect to visit with your friends and family for a quick getaway.  

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London on a Budget

Visit London on Budget

On a tight budget but want to see London in all its glory? Don’t worry we’ve got you covered! You really don’t have to spend a fortune to have fun in UK’s metropolis with our top ten picks around the city.

You can also read: Find Your Zen at Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden

1.    In the air with Fighter Jets

Flying a fighter jet may be a dream for many but for you, it can actually turn into reality. London's Science Museum provides an opportunity to fly a fighter jet without a license. Experience the thrill of riding a fighter jet from the impressive imitated cockpit and descending from 40,000 feet from the ground. The Typhoon Force simulator takes you on an action-packed flight, demonstrating the aircraft’s skills through UK’s scenic views. Visitors relish the Science Museum due to the immersive experience of technology and science all in one place and often stay in budget hotels near Kensington to save a lot of bucks in transportation and accommodation.

Total spend: £4

2.    Dive into the Renaissance with Shakespeare Globe

Relive the olden time by visiting the Shakespeare Globe located on the bank of the River Thames. The famous site is known for its larger-than-life theatre where the Father of Modern Literature wrote many of his masterpieces. The globe today stands as a monument to Shakespeare and continues his legacy through his plays. Witness the live plays and make memories for life!

Spend: £5

3.    Fly over the Thames

Aerial views make everything prettier? Doesn’t it?Look at London from a different yet breathtaking perspective with this airline cable car. It covers the city's classic tourist spots and is located just 15 minutes from Central London. The mesmerizing view of the golden sun setting and the city turning its lights on for the night is magical and truly a lifetime experience! 

Total spend: £3.50

4.    Experience the Ceremony of Keys

Be part of the 700-Year-Old Ancient ceremony. The Tower of London’s Ceremony of Keys is amongst the oldest surviving enactments. Although the royals may not reside in the towers, the act still holds importance and is carried out daily. And the best part is that this is absolutely free!

Total spend: £0

5.    Adventures of a Big Screen on a Small Budget

South London's PeckhamPlex is a must-visit site if you're up for a movie. This old cinema house has maintained its legacy by keeping intact its original interior and ticket prices. It screens the latest as well as classic old movies for viewers to watch and enjoy at a reasonable price. PeckhamPlex is just few stops away from Park City Grand Plaza Kensington via London tube.

Total spend: £4.99

6.    Glide with Aquatics

Discover the magical underwater world at Horniman Museum's Aquarium. The aquarium showcases aquatics fauna from around the globe. You will not only see the majestic creatures living and moving but will also be able to learn about their interesting lives and fascinating transformation over the years.

Total spend: £2.50 – £4.50

7.    Cozy Up with Indian Food

After an eventful day moving around London, enjoy a hearty meal at the India Club, one of London's first and original curry institutions. Launched in the 1950s the restaurant has maintained its vintage vibe. You can start with warm triangular samosas filled with vegetables and then move on to their most-loved Bhuna Lamb with freshly made naan bread. 

Total spend: £5 - £10

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The Famous Parks of London

 

Hyde Park, London

London is known for its large, relaxing parks, and these must be a part of your itinerary! Each one of these parks is unique in its own way and should be experienced one at a time. Here is a list of London’s most eminent parks, which you should visit at least once.

You can also read: Find Your Zen at Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden

Hyde Park

Making it to the first position in this list is London’s historic Hyde Park. The Park covers 142 hectares of land and has over 4,000 varieties of admirable flora. It has a lake with paddle boats and even some horses to ride on. Located in the heart of London, this park cannot be missed. The park is also a favorite spot for picnics as it has vast lush green lands and blooming flora that refreshes the mind, body, and spirit. In-fact Londoners often visit Hyde Park and stay in budget hotels in Kensington for affordable long stays in London. Hyde Park is full of adventure and a nice outing spot for your all-day.

Entry fee: Free

Hampstead Heath

Located only four miles away from Trafalgar Square, Hampstead Heath is a beautiful countryside park of 800 acres. Since it is easy to reach and not far from commercial areas; you will spot many employees relaxing after a tiring day at work. This Park has meadows, ponds, woodland, and trees that are thousands of years old – nature in pure sense.

Entry fee: Free

Alexandra Park and Palace 

This 80-hectare, Green heritage winning green landscape in London is every child’s delight. Not only is the Alexandra Park and Palace a great relaxing place but it also has a ton of entertainment options for children. From a children’s café, to a skate park and a play area for toddlers, the park comes to live during spring and summer holidays. You can also play elite sports such as golf while enjoying the panoramic views of London’s clear skyline.

Entry fee: Free

St. James Park

Being one of the royal parks, the St. James Park in London is a famous tourist attraction and holds multiple royal events that are a treat to watch. Throughout the year, royal celebrations and events like Trooping the Color, Changing the Guard, and Beating the Retreat take place attracting many locals and tourists. The park also holds great significance due the monuments, memorials and statues installed in it such as the Queen Victoria Memorial, King George VI Memorial, Captain Cook Statue, The Tiffany Fountain and many more. The park is also rich in flora and has beautiful flower beds laid out in semi-circle design as a  memorial to Queen Victoria.

Entry fee: Free

Regents Park

Covering over 166 hectares (410 acres) the Regents Park is a rose heaven! This Park holds more than 30,000 roses of 500 varieties. This is also a popular spot for people practicing sports as the sports facilities cover 100 acres of this park. Regents Park is very close to Park City Grand Plaza Kensington via London tube to relish the recreation time in London.

Entry fee: Free

Richmond Park

Richmond Park is one of London’s largest parks with 1000 hectares and is the humble abode of nearly 650 freely roaming deer. Designated as National Nature Reserve (NNR), a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSI) the park has large fresh water reserves where you can spot migratory birds during specific months in the year.

Entry fee: Free

 

 

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Indulge Yourself In London’s Top Street Performances

 

Street performance – a tradition that dates back to ancient times and is socially accepted in many cultures and cities around the globe. Many famous actors started off their journey in the entertainment industry by busking off.

Pierce Brosnan, better known as Bond, James Bond – started as a fire-eating busker in London. You never know which one of these busking artists will turn out to be the next global icon. So, visit these top street performance areas in London and take a selfie with these artists while you can!

You can also read: Top London Picnic Areas with a Mouthwatering View in Sunshine

 Covent Garden

Home to some of the best artists today, Covent Garden has earned a reputation for being one of the best street performance areas in London City. This place has seen everything, from a juggler to a tin man to a loud, beautiful singer – Covent Garden is the best place to spot talent. If looking for the comfortable accommodation at the budget than you should consider booking one of the hotels in Kensington High Street as it’s near to the famous London street performing spots and its cost will not break the bank.      

It is also a top tourist spot, so you must not miss out on this one!

Oxford Street

Popularly known as the shopping mecca of London, it is yet another tourist favorite. Being one of the busiest streets in London, it hosts hundreds of people daily, which makes it a good spot for street performers.

During Christmas, Oxford Street hosts an annual traffic-free day to allow local buskers to amuse pedestrians and tourists and spread happiness.

Southbank

Dotted with arts and culture, Southbank is right at the edge of the river Thames in Central London. It hosts just the right spot to pose in front of the London Eye and enjoy a quality time in its fine diners and cafes. Park City Grand Plaza Kensington is very close to most of the street performance spots in London. It is one famous holiday destination in Central London which is famous amongst the Londoners for long stays due to its budget rooms and prime location.  

Southbank is a busker-friendly place, which means you will find one, or more, seven days a week. Being a prime tourist spot, this place is always bustling.

London Underground

An elderly person playing a soulful tune on a violin in an underground tube station – a scene often seen in movies and dramas, is a real-life thing in London.

London Underground has witnessed many crowds, small and big, surrounding many talented artists' livelihoods in these ten years. This place is ever-green as it is independent of harsh London weather and a home for many buskers – making the commute melodious for travelers.

Leicester Square

Leicester Square – a plaza for buskers is the best place to find street performances in London. Here you will spot all kinds of dancers, singers, performers, and method actors out in the street entertaining the crowds.

Known as London’s own Times Square, you simply cannot miss this place. Apart from busking, you can also indulge yourself in good food and top-notch clothing brands.

Trafalgar Square

Located in Westminster, Trafalgar Square is London’s top tourist attraction. Named after Britain’s victory in the Battle of Trafalgar, this lively spot is a must-visit for Londoners. The best street performances in this area happen during festivals and massive celebrations. Witness the stunning Chinese lion dance and the iconic levitating man all at this one stop.

Now that you know the best tourist spots in London make sure to add them to your itinerary and pay them a visit.

 

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Find Your Zen at Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden

 

Kyoto Garden London

Japanese gardens are known to be a thing of beauty. The lush and charming greenery in these gardens can transcend us on a visual as well as a psychological journey.

Nature has been a source of tranquility and serenity for years and years. Nothing beats the feelings we get from outdoors, especially in a garden. The intricate aesthetics that a garden designer puts together to create a natural landscape of contemplation is pure art. But, if you live in a hustling and bustling city like London, where can you find such a place?

The answer to that is the Kyoto Garden in Holland Park. This beautiful Japanese Park is a must-go if you are on the look for some quiet me-time. The park's design evokes a sense of wonder and calmness, which is difficult for us to capture in our daily lives. Kyoto Garden is famous amongst the Londoners as a picnic spot where they enjoy their precious time and often book a stay in one of the budget hotels in Kensington High Street for easy access to Kyoto Garden.

You can also read: Top London Picnic Areas with a Mouthwatering View in Sunshine

Thinking of visiting Kyoto Park? Here are a few things that you must know before going.

The Story Behind Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden

Let’s begin with the history of this place. Kyoto Garden is situated in Holland Park, formerly known as Cope Castle – a space where diplomats and their families would live in. The castle was destroyed in 1940, and the lands were bought twelve years after by London Country Council. It now serves as a huge park, including many other gardens, eateries, sports, and entertainment facilities.

Kyoto Garden was formed in 1991 as a symbol of remembrance and celebration of the friendship between Great Britain and Japan.

What Will I See at the Kyoto Garden?

Well, let’s put it like that; Kyoto Garden is your quick getaway to Japan. This place is a treat for West Londoners looking for a break from chaotic city life to breathe in some fresh air. Here you can find;

• Beautiful Asian koi carp in waters that flows all around the garden
•  Freely roaming peacocks that might put on a show for you and display their gorgeous feathers
• Adorable squirrels carelessly running around, enjoying their natural habitat
•  An Ecology Center, where you can learn about the flora that you see in the garden
• Huge, impressive maple trees that give you an impression of the real Japan

Londoners frequently book a stay at Park City Grand Plaza Kensington to enjoy their staycation time in London.

Where Is It and How Do I Get There?

Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden is at Ilchester PI, London W8 6LU, in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. As there is limited or no parking, you might want to hop on a Tube to Holland Park, Kensington High Street, or Notting Hill Gate.

Plus, point if you're a cycler! Because there's a London Cycle Hire docking station right at the corner of the park's entrance.

Things to Remember When Visiting Kyoto Garden

·         Leave your furry friend at home because this is not a pet-friendly garden

·         There is no entry fee. However, the entry fee of Opera Holland Park ranges from £17 to £70 (adults)

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your picnic essentials and find your zen at the beautiful Kyoto Garden.

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10 Fun And Frolic Festivals In London Which Reflect The Country’s Celebrations At Its Best!

Feasting in London 

London is known for many things- Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the London Eye, London Tower Bridge, and countless museums. London is known around the world for politics, history, music, fashion, and theatre. But aside from the aforementioned, London also has a lot of festivals to boast about. These festivals take place year-round and feature and celebrate British culture at its finest. The following are some of the most famous festivals in London:

1. Citadel Festival

Citadel Festival is an annual music festival held in London since 2015. This year’s edition is slated to take place on  July 14, 2022, in Gunnersby Park, London.

2. British Summer Time

British Summer Time, also known as BST, is an annual music festival held in Hyde Park, London. The festival spans over 10 days full of music and entertainment headlined by legendary musicians and performers. This year, the industry’s biggest names like Bruce Springsteen and E Park will be headlining this legendary festival. British Summer Time 2022 is set on July 14.

3. South West Four

South West Four is an award-nominated EDM Festival held in Clapham Commons, London annually. Like the previous years, this year’s edition is set to take place over the August Bank Holiday Weekend from August 26 to 28.

4. Four Tet All-Dayer

Set this year on the 13th of August, Four Tet All-Dayer is an electronic music festival featuring the biggest names in the genre right now. This year’s festival is in Finsbury Park. You can pick the accommodation in one of the budget hotels in Kensington High Street to enjoy this festival at the fullest.

5. Wireless Festival

Attended by thousands every year, Wireless Festival is one of the grandest music festivals in London. The Wireless Festival has been held in several locations around the city. But this year, it is held in Finsbury Park, London. The line-up spawns from different genres with names like James Blunt, Drake, Avicii, The Who, Kanye West, Jay Z, and David Guetta headlining it in the past few years.

6. Notting Hill Carnival

The Notting Hill Carnival has almost become a tradition for Londoners as it has been held for over 50 years by the West Indian Community. Every year, those of British-Caribbean descent come together adorned in beautiful, colorful attires to hold a parade and food festival in Notting Hill, London. This year, the carnival is scheduled to take place from August 28 to 30. This is the most awaited festival as there is dance, celebration and feast. Park City Grand Plaza Kensington is just a tube away from Notting Hill Carnival. So, celebrate the festival with saving on commute and accommodation means no breaking the bank.

7. London Jazz Festival

London Jazz Festival is one of the biggest festivals showcasing jazz music around the world. It has been held for over twenty years and attracts jazz lovers from all over the world. This year, the festival is set to take place from  November 11 to 20.

8. The Great British Beer Festival

Organized by Campaign For Real Ale, the Great British Beer Festival is a great tourist attraction in the City of London. The festival showcases different kinds of beer which attracts millions of beer enthusiasts around the world. The 2022 Great British Beer Festival will take place in Olympia, London from  August 4 to 8.

9.Taste of London

Another festival perfect for foodies, Taste of London is dubbed as one of the biggest food festivals in the world. Attracting thousands of people every year, the festival first started in June 2018. This year’s edition is set to take place in Tobacco Dock.

10. Meatopia

Meatopia is London’s very own cook-off where chefs from all over the city will cook dishes using sustainable materials and ethically-sourced ingredients. The event is set to take place in Tobbaco Dock, Tobbaco Quay from September 2 to 4. 

 

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Beauty and the Beast: The Musical at the London Palladium

 

'Beauty and the Beast' by Disney maintains legendary to this day, due largely to the popularity of the 2017 live-action adaptation of the original 1991 animation sensation. So, the theatrical stage adaptation is long past due for a revival: it fared well in the late 1990s but hasn't been around in London for over two decades, having closed in 1999.

After an incredibly successful UK tour, a dazzling new production of Disney's ageless Beauty and the Beast performs a summer holiday at the London Palladium.

You can also read: SHOP TILL YOU DROP AT BRENT CROSS

 

This 'tale as ancient as time' relates the narrative of Belle, a bright and passionate young woman who is kidnapped by a Prince who has been changed into a monstrous and terrible Beast while attempting to rescue her captive father. Belle and the Beast should find love before the last petal of a magical rose falls to end the spell.

This summer, the London Palladium will host a tour of Disney's Beauty and the Beast, recreated in an original production presented by original cast members theatrical production team. The dates for the events are June 24-September 17.

The London Palladium is just a tube away from the budget hotel in Kensington. Book your stay in the luxury yet budget hotel at the most affordable price you can ever found in London.

The Palladium event tickets are in ongoing sale. You can book your tickets online from June 24 to September 17, 2022. The ticket price starts from £24.00 to £54.00 accordingly.

About the tour

You've probably heard of Belle, a lovely young lady who doesn't fit in in the little town where she resides with her honorable and playful father, Maurice. Belle bargains her freedom for her father's when he displeases the master of a magical castle.

She honors her pledge and returns to the castle to be held captive by the Beast who controls it. Unexpectedly, she befriends the castle residents, who go out of their way to make her feel welcome. This performance has delighted fans all around the world with music from the film such as "Be Our Guest," "Gaston," and "Something There," as well as original songs written particularly for the theater play. The Beauty and the Beast musical run time is approximately 2.5 hours.

Anybody ages six and above are invited to watch Beauty and the Beast the Musical; minors aged Sixteen and under must be supervised and reclined with an adult. Kids under the age of four are not allowed in the theater.

Ways & nearest tube to reach

The London Palladium is accessible by tube via Oxford Circus and Bond Street. The center, northwest, and eastern areas of London are served by underground stations.

Save a great deal on accommodation and commute as London Palladium is near to Grand Plaza Hotel London. The central London is the preferred location for the tourist come to visit London.

You may also take the Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria trains, and the Oxford Circus tube station is near the London Palladium, making it one of London's primary transportation hubs. Exit the station through Argyll Street and go to the theatre door. Turn left and go straight across the highway to the theatre.

Conclusion

Beauty and the Beast are widely regarded as one of the best musicals of all time. With fantastic costumes, excellent lighting and stage decorations, fascinating music, and superb actors. It is one of the greatest musical plays to see with your family. This is a fantastic performance to experience with children, and because it is touring the UK, you may see it in your city. I'd suggest it to anyone who likes old animated or live-action films. It reveals more information about the servants in the castle than the movies do, and it beautifully brings all of the fantastic scenes to life.

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