Joanna James
As one of London's oldest landmarks, the iconic surroundings of Hyde Park contain some of the city's best attractions. Here are some key highlights to visit the next time you pop by Hyde Park.
Also known as Apsley House, the Duke of Wellington Museum is the famous residence of its namesake Duke who returned to this palatial mansion after his Waterloo victory. Although the Duke was responsible for the many renovations and alterations to the structure, including the now famous Waterloo Gallery, the landmark remained a luxurious banquet venue for centuries. Having opened its doors to the public as a museum in 1952, Apsley House is now the best venue to feast one's eyes on a vast collection of artworks including Velázquez's masterpiece, "Waterseller of Seville." Including pieces from the Spanish royal art collection, the celebrated paintings of Correggio, Van Dyke and Rubens are displayed in this iconic residence turned museum.
Visitors based in hotels near Hyde Park London whether it's the Berjaya Eden Park London Hotel or any of the many accommodation providers in the vicinity also have the opportunity to visit Kensington Palace and its extensive gardens. A favourite royal residence since 1689, Kensington Palace was the historic venue in which Queen Victoria once resided. Highlights of a visit to the palace include the various royal regalia on show at the venue including paintings of past monarchs and members of the British royal line. The Queen's Staircase is also a sight for sore eyes while visitors should also visit the Orangery for a cup of English tea or breakfast.
As one of the most visited landmarks near Hyde Park, this striking memorial is dedicated to one of English history's finest romances. As the consort of Queen Victoria, Prince Albert's likeness is rendered in gothic style in this sculpture where the prince appears to be seated under a 190-foot high canopy. There are nearly 180 marble neo-classical style reliefs decorating the pedestal.
As one of the most controversial attractions occupying the outer fringes of Hyde Park, the Speaker's Corner is located facing the Marble Arch. As the site where many a revolutionary idea and movement were inspired, the venue served as a location in which many Londoners could speak publically of their misgivings and grievances. They would inevitably find an audience in those spending time at the park that would flock to the corner to hear everything from politically charged statements to religious sermons and other orations.
Occupying the exterior of the Duke of Wellington's Apsley House the Wellington Arch celebrates the British victory at Waterloo. The bronze chariot emblazoned on the arch is perhaps it's most noteworthy feature while the nearby sculpture of the Duke on horseback also casts an imposing shadow. Featuring representations of a Scottish Highlander, Inniskilling Dragoon, a Grenadier Guard as well as a Welsh Fusilier the Wellington arch also contains a gallery with exhibits highlighting key moments in English history.
Attracting over a million visitors annually, Hyde Park's Serpentine Galleries are considered the country's most prestigious contemporary art spaces by no mere coincidence. Hosting temporary summer exhibitions in a special pavilion every year, the Serpentine Gallery was designed by a leading British architect and features the work of Andy Warhol, Damien Hirst and Henry Moore
Ranked among the country's foremost equestrian institutions, the Hyde Park Riding Stables has been a fixture on the fringes of London's most famous green space for over three centuries. Occupying pride of place at Bathurst Mews, this historic stable near Victoria Gate allows visitors to enjoy horseback rides along the Serpentine and via the bridleways.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
