Regent's Park

Overview

Regent’s Park is arguably London's most elegant, perfectly manicured Royal Park. Characterized by spectacular wide avenues, formal gardens, and beautiful boating lakes, it feels distinctly aristocratic.

Highlights

• Queen Mary's Gardens: The spectacular, world-famous circular rose garden holding exactly 12,000 vibrant roses of nearly 400 distinct varieties (best in early June).
• The Open Air Theatre: A magical, beautifully intimate permanent outdoor theater hidden entirely within the trees, offering spectacular summer performances.
• Primrose Hill: Cross over the Regent's Canal at the park's northern edge to climb Primrose Hill for one of six protected panoramic views over the entire London skyline.

History

Originally a massive royal hunting ground claimed by Henry VIII. In the early 19th century, the Prince Regent (later George IV) commissioned the genius architect John Nash to design this beautifully circular sweeping park surrounded by grand stucco terraces.

Visitor Tips

• The Canal: Take a beautifully relaxed, scenic walk along the Regent's Canal flowing through the northern edge, leading directly to the highly eclectic Camden Market.
• London Zoo: The oldest scientific zoo in the entire world takes up a massive section of the park's northern end.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.