Hyde Park Horse Riding

Hyde Park, one of London’s most famous Royal Parks, offers visitors a unique way to explore its lush greenery and historic grounds: on horseback. Horse riding in Hyde Park is a cherished tradition, dating back centuries, and remains a favorite activity for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a complete beginner, this timeless experience provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city while allowing you to take in the park’s stunning scenery.

Horse riding in Hyde Park is primarily centered around the historic Rotten Row, a broad, sandy track that has been a designated horse riding path since the 17th century. Once a fashionable route for the aristocracy, Rotten Row was the first artificially lit road in Britain, illuminated by 300 oil lamps in 1690. Today, it remains a dedicated bridle path, offering riders a safe and scenic route through the park.

Horse riding in Hyde Park, London by Christine Matthews, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you’re wondering how to get started, there are several riding stables located near Hyde Park that cater to all experience levels. Hyde Park Stables is a popular choice, offering guided rides and lessons for adults and children alike. They provide all the necessary equipment, and their professional instructors ensure that even beginners feel comfortable and confident. Advanced riders can enjoy a more independent experience, exploring the park at their own pace.

Many visitors ask: Do I need prior riding experience to enjoy horse riding in Hyde Park? The answer is no! Hyde Park Stables and other providers are well-equipped to accommodate riders of all abilities. From complete novices to seasoned equestrians, everyone is welcome to enjoy this unique activity. You simply need to book in advance, wear comfortable clothing, and follow the guidance of your instructor.

Beyond the thrill of riding, Hyde Park offers breathtaking views and iconic landmarks to admire as you trot along. Highlights include the Serpentine Lake, the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain, and the park’s beautiful flower gardens. Riding through this historic setting gives you a new perspective on one of London’s most beloved green spaces.

If you’re planning to visit London, horse riding in Hyde Park is an experience that combines history, nature, and adventure. Whether it’s your first time on horseback or one of many, this activity promises to be a memorable highlight of your trip. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the park and the joy of your ride!

Unfolding the Length and Lure of London’s Hyde Park

Hyde Park, a gem in the heart of London, is a must-visit for any tourist. Spanning a considerable 350 acres (or 1.4 square kilometers), this royal park is a sanctuary of calm amidst the bustling city. It is not just the physical size of the park that is impressive, but also the breadth of its history and the variety of attractions it offers.

Hyde Park was established by Henry VIII in 1536 for hunting. It opened to the public in 1637 under Charles I, and since then, has been a venue for national celebrations and demonstrations. The park’s length is approximately 1.5 miles (or 2.4 kilometers), which makes for a delightful walk, cycle, or horse ride.

A common query about Hyde Park is ‘how long is it?’. To put it in perspective, it’s roughly the same length as Central Park in New York City. Walking at a leisurely pace, it would take about 30-40 minutes to traverse its length.

Hyde Park houses several significant monuments like the Serpentine Lake, Diana Memorial Fountain, and the famous Speaker’s Corner. The park is also home to numerous species of birds and wildlife, adding to its charm.

The park’s extensive size and history make it a venue for many events, such as concerts, exhibitions, and the annual Winter Wonderland. It’s also a great place for a picnic, leisurely walks, or even a swim in the Serpentine.

Visiting Hyde Park offers more than a simple walk in the park. It’s a journey through English history, a cultural immersion, and an opportunity to enjoy nature’s beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Hyde Park caters to all.

London 3 attractions

Are you planning a trip to London and looking for a hotel that offers both luxury and convenience? Look no further than the K West Hotel & Spa! Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Shepherd’s Bush, this stylish hotel is the perfect base for exploring all that London has to offer.

One of the top attractions in London is the iconic Buckingham Palace. Just a short tube ride away from the K West Hotel, you can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony and marvel at the grandeur of the palace. Don’t forget to take a stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the palace, a true oasis in the heart of the city.

Another must-visit attraction is the British Museum, home to thousands of years of history and culture. From ancient Egyptian mummies to the Rosetta Stone, this world-renowned museum has something for everyone. And with the K West Hotel’s convenient location, you can easily hop on a bus or take a leisurely walk to the museum and immerse yourself in the fascinating exhibits.

For those seeking a bit of retail therapy, a visit to Oxford Street is a must. Just a stone’s throw away from the K West Hotel, this bustling shopping mecca is home to a wide range of high-street stores, luxury boutiques, and department stores. Spend the day browsing the latest fashion trends, picking up souvenirs, and indulging in delicious treats at the various cafes and restaurants along the way.

After a day of exploring London’s top attractions, you can unwind and rejuvenate at the K West Hotel’s luxurious spa. Treat yourself to a relaxing massage, enjoy a dip in the hydrotherapy pool, or sweat it out in the sauna. With its tranquil ambiance and top-notch facilities, the spa is the perfect place to unwind and recharge before heading out for a night on the town.

So why wait? Book your stay at the K West Hotel & Spa and get ready to experience the best of London’s attractions, all while enjoying the comfort and luxury of this fantastic hotel

The British Museum

The British Museum London is one of the most famous museums in the world, attracting millions of visitors every year. Located in the heart of London, this world-renowned museum boasts an impressive collection of over eight million objects, spanning over two million years of human history. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, the British Museum offers a unique and fascinating insight into the history and culture of the world.

Visiting the British Museum is a must-do experience for anyone interested in history, art, and culture. The museum was established in 1753 and has since grown to become one of the largest and most comprehensive collections in the world. Visitors can explore the vast galleries, which are organized by region and time period, and discover treasures from Egypt, Greece, Rome, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Getting to the British Museum is easy, with several public transport options available. The nearest tube stations are Tottenham Court Road, Holborn, and Russell Square, all within walking distance of the museum. Buses also run frequently to the area, and there are several car parks nearby.

The British Museum has a rich and fascinating history, dating back to its founding in the 18th century. The museum’s collection was originally housed in a mansion in Bloomsbury, before moving to its current location in 1857. Over the years, the museum has undergone several renovations and expansions, including the addition of the Great Court in 2000.<

FAQs:

Q: What are the opening hours of the British Museum?

A: The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5:30 pm, with late openings until 8:30 pm on Fridays.

Q: Is admission to the British Museum free?

A: Yes, admission to the museum is free, although some special exhibitions may require a fee.

Q: Are there guided tours available at the museum?

A: Yes, there are several guided tours available, including general tours, family tours, and specialized tours.

Q: Can I take photographs inside the museum?

A: Yes, photography is allowed in most areas of the museum, although flash photography is not permitted.

Q: Are there dining options available at the museum?

A: Yes, there are several dining options available, including a café, restaurant, and several snack bars.

A visit to the British Museum is a must-do experience for anyone interested in history, art, and culture. The museum’s vast collection offers a unique insight into the history and culture of the world, and its central location in London makes it a convenient and accessible destination. 

Winter Wonderland


Winter Wonderland Hyde Park, or simply Winter Wonderland, is a huge festival that takes place every year in Hyde Park in London from about the middle of November until the beginning of January. It is a celebration of the Christmas season. More than a hundred rides and attractions from all across Europe can be found here, together with a Giant Wheel, a circus, an ice show, and live musical performances.

Major Attractions at Winter Wonderland

The highlights of Winter Wonderland Hyde Park are:


Magical Ice Kingdom
An indoor museum with ice sculptures you can explore. Immerse yourself in a wintry wonderland carved out of more than 500 tonnes of ice and snow.

The Giant Wheel
Soar 70 metres into the air on the world’s largest portable ferris wheel and get a bird’s eye view of Hyde Park and the incredible London cityscape beyond.

Ice Rink
During the winter, the park plays host to the biggest temporary outdoor ice rink in the UK, complete with a bandstand where regular concerts may be enjoyed.

Ice Mountain
Visit the local penguins and polar bears and ride through a mountain cave lit by the northern lights. This indoor roller coaster is quite popular because it spins around and gives riders a sense of what it would be like to ride in the Arctic.

Aeronaut Starflyer
Starflyer, the soaring aeronaut at 80 metres in height. Dreams of flight come true on board Aeronaut, the biggest transportable Starflyer in the world.



Helter Skelter
As you make your way down the lighthouse slide, take in panoramic views of Hyde Park. Ride this classic amusement park ride and feel like a kid again.

Bavarian Village
The Bavarian Village in Hyde Park is an authentic slice of Bavaria, complete with cosy chalets, pubs, cafe’s, restaurants, and outdoor seating where visitors can relax and enjoy themselves.

Memorials at Hyde park

While Hyde park provides the perfect getaway from busy London by providing tons of fun activities and sporting events, it is also home to memorials depicting British history. Here are some of them.

Animals in War Memorial

The Animals in War Memorial was inaugurated in November 2004 during the 90th anniversary of World War 1. The memorial is located outside Brook gate as a commemoration of animals that died or suffered during wars in which Britain took part. For example, it commemorates animals such as mules which had their vocal cords cut to be used as food to grow worms. The worms were used as sources of light for soldiers to read maps.

Princess Diana Memorial Sites

Princess Diana used to call Kensington Palace home. The park and gardens host various memorial sites to pay homage to the living legacy of one of the most loved princesses in British history. For example, the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain is designed to reflect and celebrate her personality.

Albert Memorial

The memorial located in front of the Royal Albert Hall commemorates the life of Prince Albert, who was robbed of life aged just 42 years by typhoid fever.

Even if you are visiting Hyde Park for its fun events and activities, you may also want to explore the history of Britain by visiting the various memories at the site.

Christmas Wonderland Lakeside – history and what to see

The Wonderland Lakeside is where the magic of Christmas festivities come to life. Here is a brief history and what to expect.

What is Christmas Wonderland Lakeside

The end year Christmas Wonderland is a popular end year festivities held at Lakeside Shopping Centre in Essex. It is located at the Quay.

What to expect from Christmas Wonderland Lakeside in 2021

There will be a return of popular attractions and additional ones during this year’s festivities. Expect events such as ice skating, games, carousel, and rides. This year will also include other events such as enjoying a balloon ride with Santa and the Snow Dome Waltzer. There will also be a variety of drinks and foods such as sausages, marshmallows, waffles, creeps and loaded fries, among others. Visitors can also enjoy vegan food options, and there is also a fully stocked bar with a wide variety of drinks. You can also stroll down the numerous stalls in the market, shop for some traditional holiday items, and enjoy the dazzling Christmas lights. Entry to this year’s event is free, and there is no need to make a booking. Nonetheless, if you want to participate in ice skating, you will need to book online for a slot at the ice skating page on their website. Visitors can also enjoy free parking at the Number 10 car park, which is nearest to the shopping centre.

Dates and opening times

The festivities will be between 18th November – 19th December, open from Monday-Thursday 12–8 PM, Fridays 12–10 PM, Saturdays 11–10 PM–PM and Sundays from 11–8 PM. It will then resume from 20th December – 3rd January, where it will be open from Monday to Sunday between 11 AM – 10 PM. It will close at 8 PM on Christmas Eve.

The History of Wellington Arch, London

Wellington Arch is an easily-recognisable London landmark, with a statue of the Duke of Wellington towering over an imposing neo-classical structure. But what many of the people who come to see the arch do not realise is the monument’s complex history. Since its initial construction in the early decades of the nineteenth century, Wellington Arch has evolved and even changed location.

Wellington’s Arch: how it first came to be

The history of Wellington Arch can be traced back to 1824, when architect Deccimus Burton was commissioned to create gateways for the royal parks of London that would capture the triumphal spirit of the era: this was, after all, less than a decade after Britain’s victory in the Napoleonic Wars. One design that Burton came up with was for an ornate arch to go in Green Park, serving as an outer entrance to Buckingham Palace. The arch was duly constructed over the following years, but due to budget limitations it lacked many of the sculptural details proposed by Burton.

The Wellington connection: honouring a hero

Originally, the arch had no connection to the Duke of Wellington. It was not until the following decade that a proposal was made to incorporate a memorial of Wellington, honouring his status as war hero of Britain. The proposal was approved in 1838 and sculptor Matthew Cotes Wyatt was chosen to create a statue of Wellington on horseback. The statue was erected in 1846 and stood atop the arch, but many observers felt that it looked out of place.

Moving Wellington Arch: a vast undertaking

A much bigger change was in store for Wellington Arch, as the entire structure was moved during the 1880s to make way for a new road. In the process, the controversial statue of Wellington was removed. A new sculpture of Wellington on horseback, this time the work of Joseph Boehm, was built and can still be seen near the arch today.

The final touch: the sculpture of Triumph

Deccimus Burton’s original design for the arch featured a sculpture of a four-horse chariot on top, although this was on of multiple elements that were left out. However, towards the end of the nineteenth century a sculptor named Adrian Jones was given approval by the Prince of Wales to create a bronze sculpture for Wellington Arch, and the design was to be a four-horse chariot. The sculpture, entitled Triumph, was erected in 1912, marking the final state of Wellington Arch’s evolution into its now-familiar form.

K West Hotel & Spa is launching special black friday hotel deals during the month of November.

Di Σπάρτακος – Opera propria, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=26334185

Top 5 Rooftop Bars in Bangkok

Bangkok has an exciting nightlife, and rooftop bars are the best ways to experience it. In this guide, you can discover some of the must-visit entertainment spots in the sky.

The buzzing city of Bangkok offers plenty to see, especially from the top of a skyscraper. Rooftop bars are a common phenomenon in one of Asia’s most vibrant destinations. These entertainment and relaxing spaces are designed to provide views of the city below while patrons indulge in their favourite drinks. The numerous rooftop bars in Bangkok mean that there is something for everyone from beer lovers to cocktail enthusiasts.

1. Brewski

If you love beer, you can’t leave Bangkok without trying Brewski. It is the city’s only craft beer rooftop bar. The bar stocks imported and local beers, offering over 100 different brews. Patrons have about 12 draft beers on tap. Brewski is on the 30th floor of the Radisson Blu. Compared to most rooftop bars, Brewski has a more relaxed feel.

2. The High Bar at Lancaster Bangkok

You will find the High Bar on the 12th floor of the Lancaster Bangkok where it overlooks the Makkasan District. A pool by the bar provides the perfect opportunity to cool down after a hot day in the city. Local Beer, cocktails and wines are your beverage choices at The High Bar of Lancaster Bangkok. If you want a light meal, this rooftop bar is known for its gourmet burgers.

3. 342 Bar

Do you prefer a riverside rooftop bar? Then, the 342 should be on your itinerary. It may be only five floors up, but it offers some of the most panoramic views of Bangkok. 342 is on the opposite of the Grand Palace and overlooks the Wat Arun Temple. Sip on cocktails as you enjoy the sight of the temple’s golden spire.

4. Sky Bar Rooftop Lebua

This rooftop bar is among the most famous in Bangkok (and the highest in the world), so you can expect that it will be crowded at all times. Located on the 63rd floor of Lebua, Sky Bar has a spectacular all-round view of the Chaophraya River. Try the infamous Hangovertini cocktail then head over to nearby Sirocco for an amazing Mediterranean cuisine.

5. The Speakeasy

The charm of The Speakeasy lies in its ambience of 1920s New York. You can count on some modern music as you sip on classic drinks. The 25th floor is where you go for house music and the 24th for pop. There is also a cigar lounge for patrons who need it.

For the ultimate taste of what Bangkok entertainment has to offer, pop into one of the rooftop bars in the city. With the impressive variety available, you are bound to find an establishment that quenches your thirst.

top 5 theatres near Hyde Park

No visit to London city is complete without listening to live music or seeing a show. From the famous blockbuster musicals to some of the world’s entertaining dramas, London is home to many extraordinary theatres.

 

Visitors can find their favourite drama play, West End musical or incredible opera in the city’s theatres. Here are the top five theatres near Hyde Park, London.

 

Arcola Theatre-The Nine Off-West End Awards Nominee

This is London’s favourite theatre located on the backstreet by the Dalston Junction station. Thanks to the new work from the cutting edge playwrights as well as international premiers, the theatre was nominated for the nine off-West End. Currently, there are two primary theatre spaces and a lively bar that is heavily involved in the East London arts.

 

Royal Opera House Theatre- The Home of Royal Ballet

royal

Royal Opera House is a world-famous theatre that is open to daytime visitors and ticket holders during the performances. The theatre is home to the Royal Ballet, the ROH Orchestra, and the Royal Opera. Visitors can enjoy their morning coffee or lunch at Royal Lancaster London Hotel, or take out a cold or hot drink to the famous Amphitheatre Terrace with the stunning views across the Covent Garden Piazza.

 

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre- Get to Know the History of Shakespeare

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Visitors can enjoy the show and the blockbuster musicals at one of the city’s oldest and famous theatres with the family and friends. Throughout history, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre has played host to some of the renowned shows and players in the entire world. From the talks and lectures to comedic performances and dramatic plays, the theatre always has something excellent going on.

 

Young Vic Theatre- Enjoy the Presentations from the World’s Youngest Artists

The Young Vic Theatre is the City’s leading home for the younger theatre artists. They present the seasons of work by the new directors together with the productions by some of the famous directors in the universe. The theatre was established to help the younger designers, directors, technicians, and writers to work alongside some of the world’s great artists to present entertaining productions at the lowest seat prices.

 

Harold Pinter Theatre- Get to Enjoy Entertaining Comedies with the Family

The Harold Pinter was originally the Victorian theatre for comedy. The theatre’s musical and comedic reviews that carried on across the war helped cement its reputation as the leading London light in the theatre industry.