The land forming the park was first acquired by Henry VIII from the monks of Westminster Abbey in 1536. The park was first made accessible to the public by King James I in the early 17th century, the park is split by the Serpentine, a river dammed to make an artificial lake. The idea was originated by the wife of King George II, an avid gardener. Boat rides on the lake remain a popular activity.
Perhaps the oldest park in London, these 350 acres (140 hectares) contain peaceful walks through gardens and woods, there are boats for hire, and the park is used as a venue for music concerts. There's even a pet cemetery and during the summer, Sunday concerts are held at the Bandstand.
In the north east corner, is the famous Marble Arch. The structure was built as a gateway to Buckingham Palace but moved to the park in 1851. Several monuments located in the park are worth a look. The latest tribute is to the late Diana, Princess of Wales. A memorial fountain is surrounded by and composed of 545 pieces of Cornish granite and the water flows through a complex design into a calm pool. There are three bridges that cross the water over the heart of the fountain.
The park lies between Bayswater Road to the north and Knightsbridge to the south, with Park Lane to the east and Kensington Gardens to the west. The park is easily reached by the tube (the London Underground, the subway system). Exit at the Hyde Park Corner station.