Best Fitness & Sightseeing Tips for London’s Hyde Park

There is so much to see and do in London, it can be tempting to skip your daily workout. But there’s no need to sacrifice while on vacation. If you’re like me, you love combining fitness and sightseeing, whether by walking from place to place, hiking, cycling or scuba diving. London’s parks offer excellent green space in the middle of the city to enjoy a run or brisk walk. As a bonus, when you visit Hyde Park for your daily dose of exercise, you’ll see a few of London’s top attractions.

See The Sights

This is one of the best places in Central London to spend an afternoon. It was one of my favorite spots because it offers great sightseeing, fresh air and fitness. For starters, Hyde Park is where you will find Kensington Palace and Gardens. I loved the ornate architecture and rich history of Kensington Palace and the beautifully manicured gardens. Use your London Pass to gain entry to Kensington Palace to tour the current London home of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (aka William and Kate).

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Hyde Park is also where you will find the Prince Albert Memorial. For music lovers, you won’t want to miss seeing a show at Royal Albert Hall which is just across the street from the memorial.

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Run, Swim and Play

If the weather is cool enough you can definitely create a running route through Hyde Park and stop at Kensington Palace, Prince Albert Memorial and the Italian Gardens. Otherwise, plan to walk the park or map out a good running route for the next morning before you start your day.

If you’ve had enough walking, consider hitting the water for a change of pace. You can rent row boats and pedal boats in Hyde Park’s Serprntine Lido. The lido also has a small section roped off for swimming. The area is perfect for swimming laps, and it wasn’t very crowded when I was there so you likely won’t have to worry about other swimmers interrupting your flow. For those training for triathlons, there is triathlon training every Monday evening in the summer. Serpentine Lido is only open during the warmer months, typically May through September.

If that’s not enough exercise for you then consider stopping at the Hyde Park Tennis and Sports Centre. There are 6 public tennis courts and the multi-use game area offers public “pay and play” sessions. Or, how about trying your hand at lawn bowling, or bowls? This is one thing I’ve never tried but it looks like a lot of fun! Hyde Park’s bowling green is available to book in the spring and summer, weather permitting.

Given the many options in Hyde Park, you’re sure to find an activity that suits you. And if all else fails, grab a soccer ball and take advantage of the open space to practice your dribbling skills. Let me know if you find something I missed!

Bonus Tips

• There are 19 statues and memorials in Hyde Park. Can you find them all?
• If you want to create your own London walking you’ll want to read this post for the best way to do it.