Hyde Park is one of the most beautiful green spaces in all of London – and that’s saying something. The park covers a huge area and there’s a great deal to do right on-site.
Another factor that Hyde Park has in its favour is the fact that there are famous and less well-known sights clustered around it, offering a great insight into London’s history. So, let’s look at some of the essential sights to cover.
Victoria and Albert Museum
One of London’s best and biggest museums is only a stroll across Hyde Park and it’s definitely worth it.
The Victoria and Albert Museum itself is a London landmark, but there’s also a great mix of exhibitions, art and artefacts to work your way through. There’s currently a Frida Kahlo exhibition that’s receiving rave reviews, as well as other features covering the London Design Festival and future technology.
Hyde Park is only a short hop from The Montcalm London, so why not enjoy the park, take in the V&A and then retire for some evening drinks. What could be better?
The Albert Memorial
Prince Albert crops up again, this time as a suitably impressive bronze gilt statue. Standing at 180 feet tall, this monument is not only very impressive, but also a tribute from Queen Victoria.
The memorial was ordered built very quickly after the death of Prince Albert in 1876 and Queen Victoria herself did the unveiling. Each granite pillar in the memorial took eight men twenty weeks to cut and polish, and Queen Victoria was adamant that no expense be spared in this tribute to her departed husband. It’s a great example of high-gothic Victoriana and close enough to The Montcalm London, that there’s no reason not to seek it out.
Oxford Street
One of the most famous streets in the capital, Oxford Street is a ten-minute walk from Hyde Park and a London landmark.
If you’re seeking some amazing architecture, food and drinks close to your London accommodation, Oxford Street is the place to go. The area feels very much like old London, with it’s white stone, ornate buildings and Victorian street lamps and you’re right in the heart of bustling London. It’s a great segue from the sprawling Hyde Park to the hustle of the city, but there’s plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants should you need to catch your breath.
Apsley House
The home of the first Duke of Wellington, Apsley House took seven full years to build, finally reaching completion in 1778. It’s only a ten-minute walk from Hyde Park and a great place to see some history before heading back to your London accommodation.
Apsley House looks amazing from the outside, but it’s the interiors that will probably stun you. Featuring some of the best-preserved regency interiors in the country, Apsley House is still home to the Wellington family, making it entirely unique as it is the only English Heritage-managed site with the original family still inhabiting.
There’s also a stunning art collection on site and accessible to the public, and it’s one of the finest historical homes in London.
