Backpackers Guide to London

Regents 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

Introduction

Regent's Park is considered one of London’s Royal Parks. Known as “the jewel in the crown”, its breathtaking gardens and landscapes were designed by renowned architect John Nash.

Regent’s Park is the largest outdoor sports area in London. It sprawls across 197 hectares (487 acres including Primrose Hill).

History

Henry VIII first used Regent's Park as a hunting ground, and frequently explored the area on his prize horses. A ditch and rampart separated the area from the rest of the land, and though trees were thick, there was little to no scenery. Even Henry VIII himself would be surprised at how the place has changed.

Features

The Park has an open air theatre, which holds performances from end of May to early September; bandstands for concerts, usually held during lunch and evening; a lake side theatre, puppet shows, and one of the most poplular tourist attractions, London Zoo.

Park geared towards Sports

Regents Park has one of the most extensive sports facilities, and it is common for both locals and tourists to head here for a fun day under the sun. There are tennis and netball courts. There is a running track. The Park’s sprawling fields are also ideal for cricket, softball (the park houses the London Softball League (LSF), the largest competitive softball league in the country), rounders, football and hockey. The latest addition to Regents Park are rugby pitches and three new playgrounds. Visitors can also go boating in the nearby lake.

Regents Park also has golfing facilities. There is a golfing area for recreational play, and it also runs a Golfing school and coaching facility (uncluding video analysis). There is even a small Pro Shop where you can buy golfing equipment.

Refreshments

The Park has a café and several restaurants, where you can have a leisurely lunch between games, or a light dinner before heading back to the hotel.

Ashlee House, 261-265 Grays Inn Road, London WC1X 8QT, England
Tel: +44 (0)20 7833 9400 Fax: +44 (0)20 7833 9677