Hotels near St. James's Park, London, United Kingdom

For a park in central London, St. James's Park has an extraordinary number of urban wildlife. The park is most famous for its pelicans, which were originally gifted to King Charles II by a Russian ambassador in the 17th century.

Other birds you can find in the area include swans, ducks, geese, moorhens, and herons. The lake has two islands which are a sanctuary for any birds, providing rest, forage, shelter, and nesting opportunities for many species.

The squirrels located here are also an amusing sight, with sightings of foxes and hedgerows at grassed areas being common early in the morning. The park is well looked after with neat gardens and flower beds as well as informative signage about the wildlife, making it a pleasurable, educational, and relaxing stop for nature enthusiasts, families, and photographers visiting busy central London.

You will find guided walks available in St. James's Park, organised either by Royal Parks or one of the recognised local providers of qualified walking tours. They will normally touch on aspects of the park's evolution from a marshy bog to a formal garden, the main highlights like the Blue Bridge and the Royal hierarchies, to the nearby landmarks (i.e.

Buckingham Palace, St. James's Palace). There are also wildlife or landscaping walks particularly in spring or summer when the greenery and flowers are easier to admire.

Public walking tours of Westminster or Royal London usually feature St. James's Park, while privately booked or group tours can be planned in advance of your visit. If you are interested in history, botany, or photography, your already special visit could be made even more worthwhile by booking a guided experience.

Yes, St. James’s Park is an excellent choice for a picnic. Here, you will find lovely scenery where you can bring your own food and eat on the grassed areas, benches or around the lake.

Some suitable areas include locations on the edge of the west part with views of Buckingham Palace, the Blue Bridge and by the flower beds next to the Horse Guards Parade. While the park's famous tourist spots are buzzing with people, a picnic in its relatively peaceful surroundings is a great way to connect with nature.

Many office workers, families, and tourists flock to the park grounds when the weather is warm, with many enjoying their lunch outdoors. You can also buy a snack, drink or food from one of the cafés or kiosks nearby or have it delivered to you.

St. James’s Park is open daily from 5:00 am to midnight throughout the year. While the park is typically accessible during these hours, occasional temporary closures may take place due to events or maintenance. It's a good idea to check ahead when planning your visit, especially during busy periods or when major events are scheduled nearby.

Please note that while St. James’s Park is open daily from 5:00 am to midnight, certain areas within the park may occasionally close for maintenance or events. Entry is free, with multiple access points from surrounding roads and landmarks such as The Mall, Birdcage Walk, and Horse Guards Road.

The opening hours mentioned apply to the park grounds only. Facilities such as cafés and public toilets may operate on different schedules. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visitors are encouraged to check posted signs at the park entrances or plan ahead before their visit.

When visiting St. James's Park, you will find yourself surrounded by many of London's most famous landmarks, making it the ideal focal point for sightseeing. Buckingham Palace sits to the west of the park, and is where tourists can observe the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Just across the Blue Bridge to the east, is Horse Guards Parade where some ceremonial events take place.

You can head towards Whitehall then to the Houses of Parliament; or visit the nearby Churchill War Rooms for some historical perspective on the events of World War II, which is a 6-to-7 minute walk from the nothern edge of St. James's Park.

Running along the southern border of the park is The Mall, a grand ceremonial avenue that leads the way to Admiralty Arch and onwards to Trafalgar Square. Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Downing Street are also located within walking distance.