Did you know that Hyde Park also has deep-rooted connections to cinema? In January 1889 British inventor William Friese-Greene filmed the world’s first moving pictures near Apsley Gate. Hyde Park has seen many movies made within its grounds since then, and it’s still regularly used as a film location. Public speaking is another part of the park’s heritage, after an Act of Parliament set aside an area of the park in 1872 for people to publicly debate and speak, which they still do today.

Connaught Village is part of the Hyde Park Estate, though it is just north of Hyde Park. Owned by the Church, it is a popular and desirable village with fashionable boutiques, and is even home to a Jimmy Choo store, the famous shoemaker. Due to its appeal, property to buy or rent in Connaught Village often turns over extremely quickly.

Famous residents

Being highly desirable and benefiting from a central location means the Hyde Park Estate continues to attract many notable people. Connaught Square is particularly popular with those in the know, and has been the home of ballerina Marie Taglioni, author Nigel Balchin and world famous DJ, Paul Oakenfold,. Other former and present residents include the former Prime Minister Tony Blair, TV presenters Claudia Winkleman and Nina de Roy, popstar Kylie Minogue as well as the wealthiest man in Kazakhstan, Vladimir Kim.

Family friendly living

Hyde Park itself has so much to offer families; covering 350 acres it is one of London’s finest landscapes. In the summer you can enjoy the Serpentine Lido and paddling pool, perfect for cooling down in the city’s heat. If you prefer to be on the water rather than in it, you can hire rowing and pedal boats to take in the scenery as you sail on the Serpentine Lake. A short distance away is the fascinating Science Museum, with lots to see, touch and do it will keep your little ones busy and entertained, as they learn about our scientific history in all its glory.

Green spaces

Hyde Park is one of the eight Royal Parks of London and is known for being one of the greatest city parks in the world. Preserving the park’s unique habitat is of great importance, as well as encouraging new species; if you look around, you will see a wonderful and diverse array of flora and fauna. The meadow is one of our favourite places; it’s bursting with wild flowers during the summer, and you can see many butterflies, with all their unique colours and patterns – it really is a sight to behold.

All the Royal Parks are within easy distance of Hyde Park, they include:
Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Richmond Park, Bushy Park, St James’s Park, The Green Park, The Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill and Greenwich Park

West London boutiques

A day in the life …

“You’re up bright and early, and as you venture close to the edge of Hyde Park you can’t help but be caught up in the allure of Oxford Street, bursting with designer and retail brands. You love to also explore Regent Street and Bond Street; their luxurious offerings make it hard to resist making a purchase. But today you fancy a change, and a touch of culture, so you’re going to Whiteleys Shopping Centre. A tip-toe away from Kensington Gardens, this Grade II listed building has retained its sweeping La Scala staircase and striking tiered atrium. It is not just the beauty of the architecture that draws you in, but the rags to riches story of its founder, who back in 1845 left Leeds with £10 in his pocket, off to make his fortune in London. As you wander back through Kensington Gardens your eye catches sight of the Serpentine Gallery; it looks like rain, so you take that as your signal to peruse the latest exhibitions. Each time you visit you understand why it is one of London’s best-loved galleries, with fabulous collections showcasing a range of contemporary art and architecture by established and emerging artists. Time seems to have run away with you, as you have got lost amidst the works of art on display, and it is time to meet your friends for dinner. The obvious choice would have been Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, but you have decided to dine at Corrigan's Mayfair; the combination of slightly quirky décor, delicious food and seasonal cocktails is just what you need. Your evening isn’t over yet, as you have tickets to the latest production at The Royal Albert Hall. Finally, your night draws to a close; you have experienced so much, yet not ventured far.”