Italian Gardens

The western half of the twin parks and the half that is often forgotten in public consciousness. It tends to be more formal than its neighbouring park.

A nice modern art gallery, near to the Serpentine. Too small to host a permanent collection, instead hosts temporary exhibitions which can last anything from a few weeks to over a year. Each summer a pavilion next to the gallery is designed by a different architect, which then houses various cultural events.

More of an artificial stream than a fountain, flowing in an oval through an open grassy area which, in normal summers, is a popular paddling spot for children and grown-ups alike.

Full of swans, geese, gulls, and other birds. Deckchairs can be hired for £1.50. The park benches and grassy areas are free.

The Serpentine is a long, thin artificial lake within Hyde Park which contains a range of waterfowl and fish. It was first made by damming the River Westbourne but it is now fed by three boreholes. The western end of the lake is actually in Kensington Gardens, in which it is called The Long Water. Swimming and boating are popular activities on the Serpentine; see 'Do' section.

Famous swimming club in Hyde Park's lake. The winter months are members-only (hardy club members traditionally take part in a swim on Christmas Day), but during the summer months the lido is open to the general public. A concrete 'beach' area, sun loungers, a kiddies' paddling pool and café are also on-site.