Hyde Park with the London Eye in the background

Live like a local

Seven places to visit on your London staycation

June 10, 2020

The British capital is one of the greenest cities in the world, with over 40% of it being green space. The city features grand royal parks, picturesque squares, and many tranquil waterside spots, such as the peaceful banks of the River Thames, or by the many scenic lakes.

Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest green spaces and offers some much-needed respite from the busy city streets. Whether you’re looking to exercise by running and cycling, or taking it easy with a picnic by the Serpentine, Hyde Park is ideally situated opposite both The Dorchester and 45 Park Lane. It also has a glorious rose garden to discover.

The Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill

Take a leisurely stroll through Regent’s Park, through the 395 acres of formal gardens, sprawling open spaces, playgrounds and elegant tree-lined avenues that make up this very royal Park. Originally a hunting ground, the space was named after The Prince Regent, who later became King George IV. Head to the summit of Primrose Hill for panoramic views of the sunset over London’s skyline.

a canoe floats on a lake in Regents Park

Credit: The Royal Parks

Big Ben and The Houses of Parliament viewed from Westminster Bridge in the day

South Bank

The South Bank is a much-loved area of London, stretching alongside the River Thames. Take a walk along the waterfront promenade to discover many of the city’s most recognisable sites including major attractions such as Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, the Globe Theatre, the Tower of London and London Bridge.

Kew Gardens

Arguably the world’s most famous botanical garden, Kew Gardens is dedicated to conservation and cultivation. Tropical wonderlands await in giant glasshouses and there’s hundreds of species of plants and flowers covering the 300-acre site. Visitors can even leave a lasting presence by adopting a seed or sponsoring a species from the Millennium Seed Bank. Visits are currently limited to small numbers and time slots must be booked in advance.

Credit: Kew Gardens

St James’s Park

St James’s Park is a tranquil space in the heart of historic London, surrounded by famous sights such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster and Clarence House. Sightsee as you explore the luscious park and take a closer look at the lake to discover the pelicans – King Charles II received a pod of the magnificent birds as a gift from the Russian Ambassador almost 400 years ago.

Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is a marvel of engineering and architecture connecting the north and south banks of the Thames. Whether it’s lit up against an evening skyline or viewed from up close on a beautiful day, few visit London without taking a moment to capture a glimpse of this most iconic of bridges.

Credit: City of London Corporation

Postman’s Park

A secret escape close to St Paul’s Cathedral, Postman’s Park is one of the city’s most unusual green spaces. As well as being a leafy spot for a stroll or a picnic, it’s also home to an important memorial, the Grade II-listed Memorial to Heroic Self Sacrifice. The sobering yet soulful structure displays 54 tablets, each of which tells the story of a courageous local hero.

If you’re planning a special getaway close to home we have just the thing for you. Our Ultimate Staycation Offers at The Dorchester and 45 Park Lane give you all the comfort and care you need – let us look after you.

Back to Dorchester Collection Moments

Live like a local