Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens – The Royal Parks Loop

The Serpentine, Italian Gardens, Albert Memorial, and Kensington Palace

Route Overview

Connecting two of London's greatest contiguous Royal Parks, this scenic circular walk spans 350 acres of historic parkland in the heart of the capital. Starting at Hyde Park Corner, you enter under the grand Apsley Gate and stroll along the southern bank of the Serpentine lake past the Diana Memorial Fountain. Crossing the Serpentine Bridge into Kensington Gardens, the trail leads towards the magnificent Albert Memorial, Victorian flower walk, and historic Kensington Palace. Returning along the northern edge, you will pass the Peter Pan statue, the ornamental Italian Gardens, and return along Rotten Row to Hyde Park Corner.

Travel & Getting There from London Victoria

By Train: Take the Piccadilly Line directly to Hyde Park Corner Station, or Central Line to Queensway / Lancaster Gate. (Station: Hyde Park Corner Station (Piccadilly Line), duration: 10 - 15 mins (direct from Central London / King's Cross / Victoria)).

By Bus: Take TfL Bus routes 9, 14, 19, 22, 38, or 52 to Hyde Park Corner or Park Lane. (15 - 25 mins from Victoria or Oxford Circus)

By Car & Parking: Nearest car park is Q-Park Park Lane, Marble Arch (W1K 7TY). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 15 - 30 mins from Central London (2 miles via A4 / Park Lane). Drive via Park Lane (A4202) towards Hyde Park Corner. Use Q-Park Park Lane underground car park (convenient access next to park).

Trailside Cafes & Historic Country Pubs

Refreshment and dining stops located along or near the Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens – The Royal Parks Loop trail:

• ☕ The Serpentine Bar & Kitchen: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
• ☕ The Scarsdale Tavern: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I travel to Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens – The Royal Parks Loop from London?

Take the Piccadilly Line directly to Hyde Park Corner Station, or Central Line to Queensway / Lancaster Gate. (Station: Hyde Park Corner Station (Piccadilly Line), duration: 10 - 15 mins (direct from Central London / King's Cross / Victoria)).

Where is the closest car park for Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens – The Royal Parks Loop?

Nearest car park is Q-Park Park Lane, Marble Arch (W1K 7TY). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 15 - 30 mins from Central London (2 miles via A4 / Park Lane). Drive via Park Lane (A4202) towards Hyde Park Corner. Use Q-Park Park Lane underground car park (convenient access next to park).

How long is the hike and what is the terrain difficulty?

Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens – The Royal Parks Loop covers 7.5 km (4.7 miles) with an estimated duration of 2 hours, graded as Easy. Starts at Hyde Park Corner Tube Station and finishes at Hyde Park Corner Tube Station.