AN OASIS IN PICCADILLY

Green Park was my escape from the four walls of the Corporate Office world, usually each day. I enjoyed exiting the air-conditioned offices to breathe fresh air in the Park. I'd either go early or after the lunchtime rush because, on a sunny day, the Park filled up pretty quickly with office workers.

It is a well-known Royal Park and well-kept too. Even though I've been going to Green Park for years, I still discover something new.

A Well-Trodden Path

Green Park covers about 47 acres and is located next to Buckingham Palace, between Hyde Park and St. James's Park. Together with Kensington Gardens and the gardens of Buckingham Palace, these parks form an almost unbroken stretch of open land reaching from Whitehall and Victoria Station to Kensington and Notting Hill.

It's a shortcut for anyone going to Buckingham Palace from Piccadilly, and the main path is busy no matter what time of day you go. However, you can enjoy the Park without the crowds if you go a little off the beaten track.

These days, I walk through the Park on my way to different locations, using it as a shortcut to cross around the City. However, I still make a point of stopping and appreciating the beautiful trees. There are plenty of trees in the Park.

Queen Elizabeth II

The Park was a focal point in 2022 for Queen Elizabeth II's Jubilee celebrations and her death. The Park became a giant floral garden with thousands of people coming to pay their respects and lay flowers.

The smell of the flowers was beautiful. Every tree near the main path was covered with a carpet of flowers. It was humbling to see and read the many messages of condolences.

I'd never seen the Park so quiet, yet there were thousands of people. I remember going down to the Palace, and people patiently waited to get to the Mall from Green Park. No one was pushing or getting annoyed. They just shuffled along patiently.

The Park goes back a long way.

History

The history of Green Park in London is rich and has evolved over the centuries. Green Park was once a swampy burial ground for lepers from the nearby hospital at St James's. It was first enclosed in the 16th century by Henry VIII and was a part of the vast expanse of the hunting grounds of Westminster.

In the 17th century, during the reign of Charles II, the Park was laid out as a formal garden, with avenues of trees and lawns. The change was part of a broader project to create the wow factor of royal gardens in and around Westminster.

The Park's character changed significantly in the 18th century. It became known for duels and other less attractive activities as it was less manicured than the Royal Parks. By the end of this century, most of the formal garden design had disappeared, leaving the naturalistic landscape that we can see today.

In the 19th century, Green Park underwent further changes. It was opened to the public and became a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities among Londoners. This period also saw the construction of Constitution Hill and Queen's Walk.

During World War II, the Park suffered damage from bombings. Post-war restoration work helped to reinstate its former tranquillity.

Key Features

Key features and history of Green Park include:

❇️Green Park has few monuments or lakes. It consists mainly of mature trees and grassland.

❇️Its close proximity to Buckingham Palace makes it an important location for parades and ceremonies. Plus it’s easy to get to by public transport, especially the tube. Green Park is very popular during peak tour season.

❇️Green Park is a peaceful place for people looking to escape the hustle and bustle of central London. You’ll see people doing picnics, sunbathing, and playing sports.

❇️The Park has a variety of wildlife and is a designated site for nature conservation. The trees and open spaces are an essential oasis for birds and other wildlife.

❇️Green Park hosts various cultural and ceremonial events, reflecting its importance in British public life, especially royal events.

❇️Notable memorials in or near the Park include the Canada Memorial, commemorating members of the Canadian Forces killed during both World Wars, and the Bomber Command Memorial, honouring those who served in the RAF Bomber Command.

Parting Comments

Green Park has witnessed London over centuries, and I sometimes wonder what the old trees have noticed. They probably saw it evolve from royal hunting grounds to a public space now famous for its beauty and identity.

The Park is also a firm favourite, whatever season you visit. However, one of my favourite times to see is in Spring when thousands of daffodils add colour to the landscape.

The Park offers so much to so many people, and it's a testimony to the hard work of all the staff who work diligently every day.

Put your walking shoes on next time in town and stroll around the Park. Who knows who you might bump into? Royalty uses the Park as a shortcut, too.

Thank you for your attention.

Best wishes

Tabby