Things To Do Near Hyde Park London
By Sadra Sumner
Joining us for a Royal London Bike Tour soon and mapping out the directions to the meeting point? You’re in luck! Our cycle tour meets in front of the Queensway tube station, conveniently located just north of the beautiful and expansive Hyde Park. Here are a few of our favorite ‘must-dos’ in and around this area of London, before or after your tour!
From the East
If you stroll along Oxford Street between the Tottenham Court Road and Marble Arch tube stations, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Oxford Circus, which is a retail paradise. All of the big-name brands are conveniently located in this stretch, and as you walk from east to west, you’ll be winding yourself closer to our meeting point. Be sure to leave plenty of time so that you’re not late!
Bonus: There are lots of options along this stretch for a bird’s eye view of London, and what’s better than relaxing on a rooftop while re-thinking that furry jumper you just purchased. Roofnic is a great option, as well as the John Lewis bar.
From the South
With over 300 years of historically, newlywed royalty calling this place home, Kensington Palace is a must-visit destination at the western edge of Hyde park. A tour can be organized any day of the week between 10am & 6pm thanks to the Historic Royal Palaces organization. For all of you ‘Crown’ fans, this place has been home to Queen Anne, Georges I & II, Princess Margaret, and of course, Princess Diana.
Bonus: Plan your visit for the first week of August to take advantage of the Luna outdoor cinema on the palace grounds. Cult films like Pretty Woman and on-site drinks and snacks will make it an evening to remember.
From the North
A trip to London isn’t complete without visiting the picturesque area known as Notting Hill. This multicultural corner of the capital has it all, including its own Caribbean-style Carnival, it’s Hugh Grant charm, and it’s world class restaurants such as The Ledbury and Core. It’s the perfect neighborhood for a stroll and it’s Instagrammable at nearly every turn.
Bonus: Head there on a Saturday to take advantage of the biggest Portobello Road Market day. You’ll find something open here everyday of the week, but Saturdays promise the widest selection of food, second-hand goods, and antiques. Or pop into The Churchill Arms pub for a quick bite in one of the favorite watering holes of Winston Churchill himself.
From the West
This spectacular near-London must-do may not be within walking distance of Hyde Park, but given that London is actually bigger than New York City, we consider the famous Kew Gardens just a stone’s skip away from the Fat Tire Tours’ office. Much like London, Kew is surprisingly vast, covering 132 hectares (330 acres) of land, in which live 8.5 million different types of plants. You can walk among the trees in their canopy walkway, see plants from all over the world in the largest Victorian glass unit known as the Temperate House, or try and see it all via their on-site train tours.
Bonus: Don’t miss The Great Pagoda for stunning views of London! This authentic Chinese structure was recently restored allowing visitors to climb to the top whilst learning about its history in the gardens and taking in a breathtaking panoramic.
Extras for a stroll and a bite!
Still craving more? Some of our favorite London markets include Brick Lane, Spitalfields, and Pettycoat Lane. You can meander through them on your own or let one of our knowledgeable and local guides show you the hotspots on our East London Market and Pub Tour. Another great market is a bit further afield, but absolutely worth the trek. Borough Market houses an array of crafts and great eats, and quite possibly the best bubble and squeak in south London. Try it for yourself on our River Thames Tour! The bonus there is also getting to see Shakespeare’s one and only Globe Theatre.
If you’re in the mood for a traditional pub experience, a great choice is The Champion Pub, located at the northwest entrance to Hyde Park and just down the street from the ending points of our Royal London Tour and our Royal Scandals Tour.
We would love to show you London through our eyes (and stomachs!), and there is plenty to see in our neck of the woods. Be sure to reserve your tour in advance and come ready to learn, laugh, and have an unforgettable experience.
