n the borough of Westminster, covering some 360 acres, is the celebrated Hyde Park, the perfect place for a stroll and rest from the busy life of London. Once being the manor of Hyde, a property of the Westminster Abbot, today Hyde Park is open to the public and has developed a tradition of organizing concerts, spectacles and other entertainment events. 

Let’s focus on some of the highlights in Hyde Park which have become a mandatory itinerary stop for tourists. The Serpentine, an artificial lake constructed under the reign of Queen Caroline in 1730, has gained its name due to its shape. Being once a part of the River Westbourne, the lake curves through the park and represents a delightful sight. The lake continues further to the west part of Hyde Park where it reaches the famous Kensington Gardens. The portion of the lake belonging to the Kensington Gardens is called Long Water. On the northeast side of the park is located the world-famous Speakers’ Corner, perhaps one of the most exciting places on Earth and the most crowded section of Hyde Park. Here, everyone is free to speak out his mind and show his/her oratorical skills by leading a lengthy debate. For example, some of our team members have been to the Speakers’ Corner and have listened to a lecture, raising questions about Muslim women’s life. The fun part is that there are no rules to participate. What you need is to be at the Speaker’s Corner and start talking!

Hyde Park boasts several grandiose architectural monuments which deserve our attention. Near the Speakers’ Corner is the Marble Arch [pictured on the left], an entrance to Hyde Park. Built of white marble, the Arch comprises three archways and beautiful sculptural reliefs. The Hyde Park Corner, on its part, presents majestic statues of Achilles and Byron. Another masterpiece in Hyde Park is the Albert Memorial, with an exquisite statue of Prince Albert seated. The memorial is 176 feet high and includes allegoric figures representing Industry and the Continents.