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Kensington Gardens
W8
Nearest Tube: Queensway
Kensington Gardens is situated to the west of Hyde Park. Although they are technically two separate parks, they are to all intents and purposes joined together - in total they cover 620 acres. The effective boundary between the two is the West Carriage Drive (the Ring) that crosses over the Serpentine.
Kensington Gardens were first opened to the public in the mid 18th century, but access was greatly restricted. Only those dressed formally were allowed entry, and then only on Sundays. Soldiers, sailors and servants were not allowed at all.
It wasn't until Queen Victoria came to the throne that the public were allowed unrestricted access to the park.
Kensington Gardens is calmer and more peaceful than the extremely popular and busy Hyde Park. The Long Water contains an excellent collection of wildfowl, whilst The Round Pond is the favourite spot of model boat enthusiasts.
Attractions within the park include a statue of Peter Pan, the Albert Memorial, and the Serpentine Art Gallery. And of course on the east side of the park is Kensington Palace, former home to Princess Diana.
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