Flora and Fauna
The Royal Parks of London provide excellent examples of contemporary garden design as well as being a relaxing and entertaining place for a day out with the family. Kensington Gardens are an excellent example of the elegant gardens the city has to offer. Purchased by William III in 1689, the park is now home to the Princess Diana Memorial Playground. The park is also home to the Italian Gardens, which were designed over 150 years ago. They have been the location for several movies such as Bridget Jones and The Edge of Reason, with recent renovations in 2011 to the multitude of marble fountains, statues and benches helping the Gardens regain their past romance
Another example of London’s thriving horticulture is Regent’s Park. The open-air theatre here has become the designated home of Shakespearian drama and wonderful plays which help bring the park to life during the summer. Gather as many friends and family members as possible for the ultimate picnic; you are allowed up to 40 guests per party at Regent’s Park. Lose yourselves in the drama of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which runs until the end of summer.
Bushy Park continues London’s exquisite examples of contemporary gardens. Taking up well over one thousand acres, it is the second largest Royal Park in the city. The Longford River feeds its many ponds and streams while Red and Fallow deer roam the gardens. The wetter areas maintain a variety of rushes and one of Bushy’s many claims to fame is that it is the only home to the rare mudwort in London.
Stocking up
With so much to see, consider some last minute hotel deals and make a weekend out of exploring the peaceful havens of this metropolis. If you’re going to Covent Garden then remember to stock up on that all important picnic hamper. Pay a visit to the delectable bistro and deli, ‘Champagne+Fromage’ by French Bubbles. With over 50 gorgeous French cheeses, genuine champagne and out of this world’ chocolate desserts, people will be clamouring to be on your invitation list.
Quality time
Surprise your spouse with a trip to one of London’s top secret hotels. Book into the Bentley, part of the Hilton Hotel group. Tucked away in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, you can relax over afternoon tea and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of your surroundings.