After a four-and-a-half-hour train ride (during which we managed over 2000 words on our next novel) and an hour in a taxi, a long walk in Hyde Park was a great way to stretch the legs and see some sites. We started at the Palace Gate and worked our way north to Kensington Palace.
In the Regency era, this palace was known for its gardens, so we wondered at how few florals we saw in front. Once we took the serpentine path through some tall hedgerows we found the White Garden. Wow! Because it’s completely surrounded by plants and hedges and trees, this is a secluded treasure.
Next, we headed through the Princess Diana Memorial Playground, where there is plenty of equipment for children and even an “elfin oak tree”. We were just interested in the flowers and unusual plants.
Then it was off to the Italian Gardens. Located at one end of the Serpentine, it’s a perfectly placed respite for those looking to get off the busy Bayswater Road.
In the Serpentine, what should we find but a swan with her goslings? When another bird attempted to get too close, mom went into fierce mother mode. If looks could kill…
We headed south and found the “Physical Energy” statue.
The Prince Albert Memorial is so large, we could see it from the middle of the park. The statues at the outside four corners represent Asia, Europe, America and Africa. The inner four statues are for commerce, agriculture, manufacture, and engineering. The memorial faces the Royal Albert Hall, which has been undergoing some renovation. Progress has certainly been made since our April 26th tour of London!
Since we’ll be taking a “Regency” walking tour with a Blue Badge guide in the morning, we resisted the urge to explore the area further. For now, we’re going to enjoy the first Long Island Iced Tea we’ve had since arriving in England (none of the bars or pubs we’ve been to have Sweet and Sour) and continue working on our next novel. Ta-ta for now!
Regency Romance... with a Twist 