1.2 km
The Serpentine
The Serpentine is a 40-acre recreational lake in Hyde Park, London, England, created in 1730 at the behest of Queen Caroline. Although it is common to refer to the entire body of water as the Serpentine, strictly the name refers only to the eastern half of the lake.
Location
About
The Serpentine Lake is a popular tourist attraction in the heart of London, England. Located in Hyde Park, one of the city's largest and most well-known parks, the lake is a beautiful and tranquil oasis in the midst of the bustling city.
The Serpentine Lake is a long, winding body of water that stretches over 40 acres in size. It was created in 1730 by Queen Caroline, the wife of King George II, and was originally intended for recreational purposes such as boating and swimming. Today, the lake remains a popular spot for boating, and visitors can rent pedal boats, rowboats, and even solar-powered boats to explore the lake at their leisure.
In addition to boating, there are many other activities to enjoy around the lake. The Serpentine Lido, located on the south side of the lake, is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing during the warmer months. There are also several walking and cycling paths that wind around the lake, providing beautiful views of the water and the surrounding park.
For those who want to learn more about the lake's history and ecology, there is the Serpentine Galleries, a pair of contemporary art galleries located near the lake. The galleries host a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year, and also offer tours and talks about the history and ecology of the lake.
Another popular attraction near the Serpentine Lake is the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain. The fountain, which was designed to commemorate the life of the late Princess Diana, is a stunning water feature that is surrounded by beautiful gardens and sculptures.
Overall, the Serpentine Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting London. Whether you want to go boating, swimming, cycling, or simply take a stroll through the park, the lake offers something for everyone. Its natural beauty and rich history make it a unique and unforgettable experience that is not to be missed.
Gallery
Things to do nearby
The Serpentine is a beautiful lake located in Hyde Park, London, England. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, and for good reason. The lake is surrounded by stunning scenery and there are plenty of things to see and do in the area. Here are some of the best places and activities to enjoy near The Serpentine from a tourist perspective.
1. Hyde Park
Hyde Park is a massive park located in central London, right next to The Serpentine. It is a great place to go for a stroll or a picnic. The park has plenty of green space, gardens, and wildlife, including swans, ducks, and geese. There are also several monuments and memorials within the park, such as the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain, the Holocaust Memorial, and the Speaker's Corner.
2. Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace is a historic royal residence located on the western edge of Hyde Park. The palace has been the residence of many members of the royal family, including Queen Victoria, Princess Diana, and currently the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Visitors can explore the palace's state rooms, gardens, and exhibits, which provide an insight into the lives of the royals who lived there.
3. Serpentine Galleries
The Serpentine Galleries are two contemporary art galleries located on either side of The Serpentine. The galleries showcase works by both established and emerging artists from around the world. Admission is free, and visitors can also attend talks, screenings, and other events.
4. The Diana Memorial Playground
The Diana Memorial Playground is a children's playground located in Kensington Gardens, next to The Serpentine. The playground was designed to commemorate Princess Diana and is inspired by the stories of Peter Pan. It features a giant pirate ship, teepees, and a sensory trail, among other attractions.
5. Serpentine Boating
Visitors to The Serpentine can rent rowboats or pedal boats to explore the lake. It's a fun and relaxing way to spend an afternoon, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery from the water. There is also a cafe located near the boathouse, where you can grab a drink or a snack.
6. Marble Arch
Marble Arch is a historic monument located at the northeast corner of Hyde Park. It was originally built as a grand entrance to Buckingham Palace, but was later moved to its current location. Visitors can admire the arch's impressive architecture and learn about its history.
7. Speaker's Corner
Speaker's Corner is a famous spot in Hyde Park where anyone can speak their mind on any topic. It has a long history as a place of free speech and political debate, and visitors can still hear people speaking on a variety of topics.
In conclusion, The Serpentine is a wonderful destination for tourists visiting London. With its stunning scenery, historic monuments, and fun activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the area. So next time you're in London, be sure to check out The Serpentine and all the amazing things it has to offer.