St. James's Park

British ceremonial backdrop

Address:

Horse Guards Road - Fortnum and Mason
SW1A 2BJ - Westminster/St James
London

Nearest Bus or Train:

St. James's Park, Green Park

Open Hours:

5a-midnight M-Su

St. James's Park and Green Park lie next to each other to the north and east of Buckingham Palace. Of the two, St. James's is by far the prettier. The view from the bridge towards Whitehall (pictured) is particularly pleasing and the lake is famous for its waterfowl, especially the black swans. With its well-groomed flowerbeds and summer concerts, the park remains a big favourite with Londoners and tourists alike. Office workers swarm into St James's and Green Park on fine summer days to eat their lunch and enjoy the sunshine. Henry VIII acquired the land in the early 16th century at the same time as Hyde Park. They provide the backdrop for British ceremonial life, with The Mall and Constitution Hill, the processional route between the Palace and Whitehall, running between the two.

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