Kensington Gardens
The Gardens were formed from land taken from Hyde Park after William and Mary moved into Nottingham House, now Kensington Palace, in 1689.
The original gardens were modest in size but were extended in the early 18th century to a design by Charles Bridgeman which still gives the gardens their main structure today. This has been added to in Victorian times, most notably the Italian Gardens (recently refurbished) and the Albert Memorial. Further features have been added in the 20th century adding to the reputation of the Gardens as a genteel environment associated with children and passive recreation. On the east side of the park is Kensington Palace which was the former home of Princess Diana.
A monument to Queen Victoria is located directly in front of Round Pond, to the side of Kensington Palace.
Today, the gardens are a favorite with tourists and residents and are frequently visited to see the seasonal floral displays.
Kensington Gardens tend to draw the more relaxed passive person, with kite flying and model boat sailing in the Round Pond being favourite afternoon pastimes.
Dawn until Dusk
Location
Kensington Gardens
Kensington
W8
Telephone
+44 (0)20 7298 2100
Nearest Tube / Rail Station
Queensway