St. James’s Park is one of London’s most iconic and picturesque green spaces, offering a tranquil retreat in the heart of the bustling city. Nestled between Buckingham Palace, The Mall, and Horse Guards Parade, this historic, royal park is a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.
Why Visit St. James’s Park?
This is my favourite park in London. It does get quite crowded in the summer because it is perfect to have a picnic whilst people watching. There are beautifully manicured gardens, a pretty lake, and lots of wildlife. St. James’s Park provides stunning photo opportunities, flat walking paths, and an excellent vantage point to view some of London’s most famous landmarks.
Top Attractions in St. James’s Park
The Blue Bridge
The Blue Bridge offers breathtaking views of Buckingham Palace to the west and the London Eye and Whitehall to the east. This is one of the best photo spots in the park.
The Lake and Pelicans
The park’s central lake is home to a variety of birds, including the famous resident pelicans. These birds have been part of the park since the 17th century and are fed daily by park staff around 2:30 PM.
Buckingham Palace Views
The park provides a fantastic approach to Buckingham Palace along The Mall, where visitors can enjoy the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Duck Island Cottage
This charming Swiss-style cottage at the east end of the lake is a peaceful spot surrounded by lush greenery.
Horse Guards Parade
Just steps from the park, Horse Guards Parade is a historic site where you can witness the traditional Changing of the Guard on horseback.
People Watching and Picnicking
The sweeping green lawns can get busy, but you will always find a space to put down a blanket and while away an afternoon with friends or to just take a break from sightseeing. You can hire a deckchair if you don’t fancy sitting on the grass.
What to Do in St. James’s Park
- Picnicking: Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic with a view of the lake and its vibrant wildlife.
- Wildlife Spotting: Look out for ducks, swans, squirrels and parakeets as you stroll through the park.
- Photography: The park’s landscapes and landmarks make it a photographer’s dream.
- Relaxing on Deckchairs: During spring and summer, deckchairs are available for rent, providing a comfortable spot to soak up the sun.
Read more: Official Royal Parks Website
Nearby Attractions:
- Buckingham Palace: A short walk from the park, visit the Queen’s residence and explore The Queen’s Gallery or The Royal Mews.
- The Churchill War Rooms: Discover Churchill’s secret WWII bunker just a 10-minute walk away.
- Westminster Abbey: This iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site is nearby and worth a visit.
Where to Eat Near St. James’s Park
- Inn the Park: Located within the park, this café offers seasonal dishes and refreshing drinks with stunning park views.
- The Wolseley: A grand European-style café just a short walk away, perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea.
- St Ermin’s Tea Lounge: Indulge in a quintessentially British afternoon tea experience at this nearby luxury hotel.
Best Times to Visit St. James’s Park
- Spring: Witness the park in full bloom, with colorful flowerbeds and lively wildlife.
- Summer: Enjoy longer days, sunny weather, and outdoor events.
- Autumn: The park’s trees turn golden, creating a picturesque setting.
- Winter: Visit during quieter months for peaceful walks and charming winter scenes.
How to Get to St. James’s Park
The park is easily accessible by public transport:
- Tube Stations: St. James’s Park (District and Circle lines), Green Park (Jubilee, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines).
- Buses: Routes 11, 211, and 148 all stop nearby.
- Walking: Many central London attractions are within walking distance.
Tips for Visiting St. James’s Park
- Visit early in the morning for a quiet atmosphere with fewer crowds.
- Don’t miss the pelican feeding at 2:30 PM.
- Keep an eye on your snacks—squirrels and birds may try to sneak a treat!
Toilets
There are a couple of public toilets around the park. Follow the signs. You do have to pay to use them though.
