St James's Park London
London's oldest Royal Park, offering serene lake views, abundant wildlife, and iconic vistas of Buckingham Palace.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
St James's Park London
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
London's oldest Royal Park, offering serene lake views, abundant wildlife, and iconic vistas of Buckingham Palace.
"A truly beautiful and peaceful escape in the heart of London, with stunning views and fascinating wildlife."
🚶♀️ Walk from Westminster
Easily accessible from Westminster, combine with other sights. A great starting point for a park exploration .
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Bring your own food! Many visitors enjoy picnics on the grass. Grab supplies beforehand.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Buckingham Palace Views
The Mall side of the park
Iconic vistas of Buckingham Palace framed by trees and the park's greenery. A must-see for royal enthusiasts.

Pelican Feeding
Near the lake
Witness the fascinating daily feeding of the park's resident pelicans. A unique and memorable wildlife encounter.

The Lake and Bridges
Central lake
Stroll across the bridges for stunning reflections and diverse birdlife. Peaceful spots for relaxation.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Prime Views
Picnic Perfect & Pelican Feeding
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk from Westminster
Easily accessible from Westminster, combine with other sights. A great starting point for a park exploration.
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Bring your own food! Many visitors enjoy picnics on the grass. Grab supplies beforehand.
Park Life! St James's Park - what's good?
If only ONE park
🦢 Birdwatcher's Delight
Spot swans, geese, ducks, and of course, the famous pelicans. A haven for bird lovers.
☕ Cafe with a View
The Cafe at Storey's Gate offers a pleasant patio and convenient location.
London Itinerary Advice
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk from Westminster
Easily accessible from Westminster, combine with other sights. A great starting point for a park exploration.
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Bring your own food! Many visitors enjoy picnics on the grass. Grab supplies beforehand.
🦢 Birdwatcher's Delight
Spot swans, geese, ducks, and of course, the famous pelicans. A haven for bird lovers.
☕ Cafe with a View
The Cafe at Storey's Gate offers a pleasant patio and convenient location.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. James's Park for its stunning beauty, abundant wildlife, and iconic views of Buckingham Palace. It's a peaceful oasis in the city, perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls. Some find the cafes a bit pricey, and it can get crowded during peak times, especially around the pelican feeding.
"I wish more parks in the United States were like this. Respectful people. No litter. Just nice people walking about sitting around enjoying themselves. Beautiful places to walk, sit, and look around and even people watch. On the border of the park is Horse Guards, and you’ll see some photos here juxtaposing it with the London Eye. I want to come back and picnic there."
David Stejkowski
"This place is so calm, it's so refreshing to take a break in this park especially if you're visiting London. London can be very crowded everywhere so it's really cool to have a place where you can be calm and where it's silent and not over crowded
There also are squirrels and gooses so it's really cute !! (Gooses won't attack you if you're not attacking them and squirrels are actually very friendly)"
Aleksander
"A very beautiful park in the centre of London! Lots of ducks, squirrels, parrots, herons and swans with chicks. Cosy alleys, green lawns and a pond with islands. In summer you can hide from the heat in the shade of trees. Great views of Buckingham Palace, a place for picnics and walks. Nice to watch the birds, feed the squirrels and relax on the benches. One of the best parks in the city!"
Ольга Турченко
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. James's Park is centrally located and easily accessible. The nearest Tube stations are Westminster (Jubilee, District, Circle lines) and St. James's Park (District, Circle lines). Many visitors also walk from nearby attractions like Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade.
Buses also frequently serve the area.Yes, St. James's Park is adjacent to Buckingham Palace, offering fantastic views of the palace from within the park.
It's a popular route for those visiting the palace.Cycling is generally not permitted within St. James's Park to ensure a peaceful environment for pedestrians. Stick to walking to explore the park's beauty.
On-street parking is very limited and expensive in this central London area. It's highly recommended to use public transport or walk to reach the park.
The closest Tube stations are Westminster and St. James's Park. Both are within a short walking distance of the park entrances.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, St. James's Park is a public park and entry is completely free for everyone. You can enjoy its beauty and amenities without any cost.
The park is open daily from early morning until late evening. The exact opening and closing times vary slightly with the seasons, but it's generally accessible from around 5:00 AM until midnight.
No, the pelican feeding is a free daily event and does not require any booking. Just arrive at the designated spot near the lake a few minutes before the scheduled time.
Dogs are welcome in St. James's Park but must be kept on a lead at all times. This is to protect the wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
While generally open, there might be temporary closures or restricted access for special events or ceremonies. It's always a good idea to check the Royal Parks website if you're planning a visit during a significant date.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a leisurely stroll, admire the lake and its diverse birdlife (including pelicans!), take photos of Buckingham Palace, have a picnic, or relax on the lawns. The park offers beautiful scenery and a peaceful escape.
The pelican feeding typically happens once a day, usually in the afternoon. The exact time can vary, so it's best to check the notice boards at the park or ask a park ranger for the most up-to-date schedule.
Yes, there are public toilet facilities located within the park, including accessible options. They are usually found near the cafes and main pathways.
Yes, the main paths in St. James's Park are paved and generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, making it easy to navigate.
St. James's Park is home to a wide variety of waterfowl, including swans, geese, ducks, and of course, the famous pelicans. You'll also see various other bird species.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are cafes within St. James's Park. The Cafe at Storey's Gate is a popular choice with outdoor seating,
and there are other smaller kiosks offering refreshments.Absolutely! Picnicking is a very popular activity in St. James's Park. You'll see many people enjoying their own food on the lawns, especially on sunny days.
The cafes typically offer a range of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and light snacks. They are convenient for a quick bite while enjoying the park.
Yes, the park is surrounded by many restaurants and pubs in areas like Westminster and St. James's, offering diverse dining options from casual to fine dining.
Alcohol consumption is generally permitted in public parks in London, but it's advisable to consume it responsibly and be mindful of others. There are no specific restrictions mentioned for St. James's Park, but always check local bylaws.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridges over the lake offer stunning reflections and views of the London skyline. The Mall provides a grand perspective towards Buckingham Palace.
Look for the flower beds in bloom for colorful shots.Early morning or late afternoon, especially during the 'golden hour,' provides beautiful soft light and fewer crowds. Sunrise and sunset can offer dramatic skies over the lake.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited in all Royal Parks, including St. James's Park, for safety and privacy reasons. Please adhere to these regulations.
A versatile camera, whether a DSLR, mirrorless, or even a good smartphone, will work well. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens for wildlife and distant palace shots.
While specific photography tours for St. James's Park might not be common, many general London photography tours include this location due to its iconic views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Royal Oasis: History and Significance
Today, St. James's Park serves as a vital green lung in the heart of the city, offering a tranquil escape from the urban bustle. It's a place of ceremonial importance, often used for royal processions and events, and provides a stunning backdrop for iconic London landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Horse Guards Parade. Its rich history is palpable as you wander its paths, connecting you to centuries of royal and public life.
Wildlife Wonders: Birds of St. James's Park
The park's most famous residents are undoubtedly the pelicans. Introduced in 1956, these magnificent birds are a unique attraction, and their daily feeding is a highlight for many visitors. Watching the pelicans being fed is a fascinating spectacle, offering a close-up view of these impressive creatures. Beyond the pelicans, keep an eye out for other species like coots, moorhens, and various gulls, making the park a fantastic spot for casual birdwatching.
Navigating the Park: Paths and Amenities
Key amenities include the cafes, offering refreshments and a place to rest, as well as public restrooms. Benches are dotted throughout the park, providing ample opportunities to sit, relax, and soak in the atmosphere. Information boards are also strategically placed, offering insights into the park's history, wildlife, and notable features. Whether you're seeking a brisk walk or a leisurely afternoon, the park is designed for easy exploration and enjoyment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit