Covering a vast 23 hectares, St. James’s Park is one of London’s eight magnificent Royal Parks, just a short walk from the regal landmarks of Buckingham Palace, the Palace of Westminster, and St. James’s Palace. As well as being the setting for many ceremonial events, it is an ideal place to take a break on your tour through the heart of the city.
Long ago, this verdant patch was part of the network of private hunting and riding grounds reserved for the royals. Today, that’s all changed and along with the other seven royal parks, it’s now accessible for everyone to enjoy.
The park is a perfect spot to pause after you’ve visited Buckingham Palace and passed by the Queen Victoria Memorial and Gardens. With The Mall to one side and Birdcage Walk to the other, the park is ideally situated.
When the sun comes out, so do the office workers from surrounding businesses. It’s also a haven for local wildlife. You may spot woodpeckers, owls and robins, which flock here to the park’s lake and its two islands. During the summer months, you might also be treated to one of the free music shows that are held on a regular basis.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll or cycle around the many paths. When you need to refuel, there are plenty of pubs and cafés that can be found nearby.
In June, the park is part of the celebration of the Queen’s birthday known as Trooping the Colour. Her Majesty inspects the troops of the Household Division on this ceremonial date. If you’re around then, you might also catch the patriotic musical show of the Beating Retreat put on by the Royal Marines.
Situated in the City of Westminster, St. James’s Park is a short walk from the three palaces, the Churchill Museum and Cabinet War Rooms, Admiralty Arch and the Institute of Contemporary Arts. Open all year round, it is served by the St. James’s Park Underground station.
