Holland Park, which I discovered shortly after moving to London, is truly a hidden gem.
Nestled in West London, it’s often overshadowed by the more famous parks in Central London, but for me, it has a unique charm that suits all tastes and ages.
The park strikes a perfect balance between wild and manicured, serene and lively. From cultural events and educational visits to kids’ playgrounds, there’s something for everyone. It’s a place to relax, explore, and soak up the best of London’s green spaces. What better way to experience the city?
Today, DOYOUSPEAKLONDON takes you on the ultimate guide to Holland Park!
London’s Royal green haven
Located in the heart of West London, Holland Park, spanning 22.5 hectares, is the largest green space in the Royal Borough, offering a stunning mix of formal gardens, wooded areas, and open lawns.
It was once the grounds of Cope Castle, a large Jacobean mansion built in the early 17th century by Sir Walter Cope (later the Chancellor of the Exchequer under King James I).
Then, the castle was renamed as Holland House after its second owner the Earl of Holland and his wife Lady Rich.
Throughout the 19th century, many politicians and literaries like Disraeli and Lord Byron met at Holland House to discuss politics, and it soon became famous as a “hub of political and literary activity”.
Holland House suffered severe damage during World War II, but the park was completely restored in the post-war years.
Today, Holland House has found a new life: one part serves as a Youth Hostel, while the front terrace hosts open-air theatre productions every summer, offering a diverse lineup of performances that bring the park to life.
Gardens, woods, and open spaces
From its meticulously tended flower beds to the serene Japanese Garden and tranquil woodland areas, Holland Park offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the diversity and beauty that make it truly special.
Every corner of Holland Park sparks curiosity: from the vibrant plants, especially the stunning roses, to the captivating sculptures, like the Lord Holland piece by George Frederic Watts, and the abundant wildlife that thrives throughout the park.
One of the best things about Holland Park is that it offers something new to discover in every season.
In spring, the gardens burst into vibrant blooms; summer brings lively open-air theatre and sun-dappled walks; autumn cloaks the park in a warm tapestry of golden leaves; and winter transforms it into a tranquil, frosty retreat.
No matter when you visit, the park’s beauty and charm make it a perfect place to explore year-round.
The Kyoto Garden
Perhaps the most famous part of Holland Park is the Kyoto Garden, a serene jewel nestled in the heart of the park.
This stunning Japanese garden was a gift from the Kyoto Chamber of Commerce in 1991, which is how it got its name.
As you might expect, the Kyoto Garden is quiet and peaceful, offering a serene escape from the city. Even when it attracts visitors, its thoughtful layout of ponds, bridges, and winding paths allows you to enjoy a calm, reflective stroll, soaking in the beauty of the carefully tended plants and tranquil water features.
It’s easy to feel as if you’ve stepped into another world, where every corner invites a moment of pause and contemplation.
The fountain on the bridge serves as the garden’s focal point, where visitors can feed the large, colourful koi carp swimming below.
I adore the Japanese maple trees and their stunning, ever-changing colours.
Visiting this beautiful Japanese Garden each year is a must, not just for Londoners, but for all visitors.
It’s by far my favourite spot in London, especially in spring and autumn, when the colours are at their most breathtaking.
Discovering wildlife in Holland Park
The northern part of the park features a sprawling woodland, teeming with wildlife, wildflowers, and lush greenery.
Among Holland Park’s permanent residents are its famous peacocks, who never fail to delight visitors of all ages!
This one, named Peter, seemed to enjoy our company immensely!
The park also hosts an active Ecology Centre, which organizes numerous events to explore and celebrate its wildlife.
Sports, Cafés, and dining in Holland Park
The southern section of Holland Park offers a variety of sports facilities, including tennis courts, golf practice nets, netball, and a cricket pitch.
I’m quite sure everyone would enjoy playing tennis with such a stunning view of the park’s surroundings!
For those looking to relax afterward, there’s a charming café within the park, as well as the inviting Belvedere restaurant. Tempting, though I must admit I haven’t had the chance to try it yet!
Exploring the Holland Park neighbourhood
The park is ideally located, just a stone’s throw from the vibrant neighbourhoods of Notting Hill and Kensington.
For culture lovers, Holland Park is ideally located near two fascinating destinations: the Design Museum sits at the park’s southern edge, showcasing contemporary creativity and innovation, while the nearby Leighton House offers a glimpse into Victorian art and architecture.
Together, they make the area a perfect stop for anyone looking to combine the beauty of the park with enriching cultural experiences.
For those who love to shop, being so near the lively Kensington High Street is a definite bonus.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this post and found inspiration here.
If you are soon going to explore Holland Park soon, please share your experience and opinion on DOYOUSPEAKLONDON’s blog!
What you need to know before your visit:
Holland Park: London W8 6LU
The Design Museum: 224-238 Kensington High St, London W8 6AG
Leighton House: 12 Holland Park Rd, London W14 8LZ
Discover more of my favourite parks and gardens in London and beyond here.
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Il est regrettable que ce délicieux parc ne soit pas plus connu ! Merci à DYSL de nous le faire découvrir et de donner envie d’aller s’y promener grâce à ses superbes photos et ses irrésistibles arguments.
Super article
@vanessa Merci Vanessa!
@myriam Merci bien Myriam!