Backpackers Guide to London
St James Park
Backpackers' Guide to London's Tourist Information | Backpackers' Guide to London Tourist Attractions | Backpackers' Guide to London's Historical Attractions | Backpackers' Guide to Shopping in London | Backpackers' Guide to Sport in London | Backpackers' Guide to Entertainment in London | Backpackers' Guide to Food in London | Backpackers' Guide to London Museums St James Park is one of London’s royal parks, and considered one of the most beautiful and intimate parks in the city. Its beautifully landscaped gardens, picturesque walkways, and serene atmosphere make it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. St. James Park was not always this beautiful. It was originally a marsh, but in the 15th century Henry VIII had the area drained to create a deer park for St James Palace. Two centuries later, Charles II commissioned a French landscape gardener, André Le Nôtre, to transform the deer park into a garden. It was during this time that the aviary was built. In the 19th century, famous designer John Nash added even more beautiful landscaping. Today, no one would think that St. James Park was once barren marshland. It is the most ornamental park in London. Many people go here to take a walk, feed the ducks and pelicans, or even sunbathe. During the summer, a band plays music throughout the day, while a nearby café serves refreshments. One of St. James Park’s most prominent features is the lake, now considered a wildfowl sanctuary. It is the home of ducks, geese, pelicans, and black swans. The lake is spanned by a bridge, from which visitors can get an excellent view of Buckingham Palace. It is particularly beautiful at night, when the palace is flooded by golden light, which reflects on the lake’s waters. Admission to St. James Park is free. It is a 3 minute walk from the Westminster Underground (going south east) and the St. James Park Underground (going south west). It is a 5 minute walk from the Charing Cross Underground (going north east) and the Charing Cross Railway Station (going north east). There is also ample parking for those who are bringing their cars.
Introduction
History
Features
Getting There
Ashlee House, 261-265 Grays Inn Road, London WC1X 8QT, England
Tel: +44 (0)20 7833 9400 Fax: +44 (0)20 7833 9677
