The Greener side of London

When most people think of London they think of bustling streets, high rise buildings, traffic and urban living. What most people dont realise is that London is full of green parks and gardens nearly all of which are completely free for public use and enjoyment.

When planning your trip to London it is possible to find affordable hotel accommodation close to all these beautiful green open spaces. Quality Crown Hotels, for example, have a number of quality 4 star hotels in London within minutes of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.

Securing superb luxury hotel accommodation leaves you free to explore the delights of these historical parks and gardens, safe in the knowledge that upon your return every aspect of your hotel experience will be catered for.

Many of the parks in London are royal parks or have some connection with the royal family. The royal parks have many interesting structural artifacts and elements that were commissioned centuries ago that are still in use. Over the years the parks have also become home to a number of traditional ceremonies and events held by the royal family every year.

St. James Park

St. James Park lies at the heart of central London and has many royal and literary connections. Perhaps most famous as home to the Mall which has been the set for many parades and celebrations the park also has a large lake complete with resident wildfowl. The park is situated next to Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, St. James Palace and the Horse Guards Parade, famous for numerous royal ceremonies and displays is still located with the park.

The Green Park

Green Park is situated next to St. James Park but is much smaller in size; perfect for relaxing this peaceful and mature park is an excellent place to escape the noise of the city. Green Park is an important link between St. James Park and Hyde Park and was first opened to the public in 1826. Although the park now has no buildings or structural artifacts it remains a popular green space bordered by Constitution Hill, Piccadilly and Queens Walk.

Hyde Park

Hyde Park is the largest and perhaps the most well known parks in central London. There is always something going on in the park which covers nearly 350 acres. The sheer size and rural surroundings can often help you forget that you are in the middle of one of the busiest cities in the world. Originally owned by the monks of Westminster Abbey the land was acquired by Henry VIII in 1536 and many royals have left their stamp on the park ever since.

The famous Serpentine Lake was commissioned by Queen Caroline, wife of George II and the Rotten Row was installed at the end of the 17th century by William III who found the walk through Hyde Park to St. James dangerous so had the route lit by 300 oil lanterns. Another popular meeting point in Hyde Park has become known as Speakers Corner where people are allowed to speak freely on any subject they want to.

Kensington Gardens

Originally part of Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens was acquired in 1689 by William II and has been a royal park ever since. Famous for its formal planted avenues and flower bed displays the gardens have always been a popular visitor attraction. Some of the most popular features of the beautiful gardens include the bronze statue of Peter Pan; the Elfin Oak carved intricately with fairies and small woodland animals and most recently the Diana, Princess of Wales memorial playground.

There is much more to London than meets the eye and the capitals royal parks and gardens are a wonderful way to get back to nature whilst in the centre of one of the busiest cities in the world. Remember that your experience of London is exactly that, with so much to do and see you should do it at your own pace and particular interests.

Finding quality hotel accommodation is one element of your trip, however, that needs to be perfect. After a long days sight seeing the last thing you will need is a bad nights sleep so finding that perfect central London hotel is essential for an enjoyable trip that puts you right at the heart of London and all it has to offer.

About The Author Quality Crown Hotels are a luxury 4 star hotel group in London with hotels situated in Kensington, Hyde Park and Paddington. http://www.qualitycrown.com