The Serpentine Hyde Park London
A picturesque lake in Hyde Park offering boating, swimming, wildlife, and art, providing a serene escape in central London.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
The Serpentine Hyde Park London
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque lake in Hyde Park offering boating, swimming, wildlife, and art, providing a serene escape in central London.
"A beautiful lake inside Hyde Park offering wonderful views and peaceful seats by the lake."
🏊♀️ Lido Entry Fees
Swimming in The Serpentine Lido requires an entry fee. Check their official website for current prices and opening times.
🐎 Book Horse Riding Early
Popular slots at Hyde Park Stables fill up fast. Book your horse riding experience in advance, especially for weekends.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Serpentine Lido
Hyde Park
Dive into London's iconic outdoor swimming spot for a refreshing dip with city views.
Boating on The Serpentine
The Serpentine Lake
Rent a rowing or pedal boat for a classic London park experience on the water.
Serpentine Galleries Pavilion
Kensington Gardens
Explore cutting-edge architecture and art installations in a stunning park setting.
Hyde Park Stables
Hyde Park
Experience the surreal thrill of horse riding through the heart of London.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Swimming in The Serpentine
Best Time for Serene Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏊♀️ Lido Entry Fees
Swimming in The Serpentine Lido requires an entry fee. Check their official website for current prices and opening times.
🐎 Book Horse Riding Early
Popular slots at Hyde Park Stables fill up fast. Book your horse riding experience in advance, especially for weekends.
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy coffee or a meal at The Magazine or Serpentine Bar & Kitchen for stunning lake views.
🎨 Free Art Galleries
The Serpentine Galleries offer free entry to their ever-changing exhibitions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🏊♀️ Lido Entry Fees
Swimming in The Serpentine Lido requires an entry fee. Check their official website for current prices and opening times.
🐎 Book Horse Riding Early
Popular slots at Hyde Park Stables fill up fast. Book your horse riding experience in advance, especially for weekends.
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy coffee or a meal at The Magazine or Serpentine Bar & Kitchen for stunning lake views.
🎨 Free Art Galleries
The Serpentine Galleries offer free entry to their ever-changing exhibitions.
🦢 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife, including herons and swans, especially near the water.
🚶♀️ Lakeside Walks
Stroll along the panoramic paths surrounding The Serpentine for beautiful scenery and fresh air.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Serpentine for its beautiful lakeside setting in the heart of London, offering a peaceful escape with abundant wildlife and recreational activities like boating. The presence of art galleries and pleasant cafes adds to its appeal, though it can get crowded during peak times.
"Serpentine is a meandering lake within Hyde Park in the heart of london. Boasting panoramic lake-side paths, waterfront cafes and an abundance of wildlife to spot, has many recreational facilities around such as horse riding & boating on the lake itself too. I spotted a Heron at the far end of the lake.
A must visit if you are in London."
susan chow
"A beautiful lake Inside Hyde park offering wonderful views and peaceful seats by the lake. Really good for relaxing and sun bathing. It can get quite crowded so make sure to check if it is crowded before planning to visit. But if you live in the city this is a nice lil gem to get away from the chaos of the city. It also has a cute coffee shop on the side. I would not say it is a must visit attraction in London, but if you are in the area already then why not pay this one a visit. It's quite big so you can find a lot of people jogging hence again proving to be a good spot for the people living nearby."
Naveena Roy
"Beautiful water in the heart of the City.
Terrific boating. Whether walking around
the lake or just relaxing by the edge, this
is one fantastic place. Popular restaurant
commands one end. While a beautiful
Italian Garden, the other. Easy access."
roland j. ruttledge
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Serpentine is easily accessible via London Underground. Nearest stations include Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly Line), Knightsbridge (Piccadilly Line), and Lancaster Gate (Central Line). Several bus routes also serve the park.
Limited on-street parking is available near Hyde Park, but it can be expensive and difficult to find. It's generally recommended to use public transport.
Yes, cycling is permitted on designated paths within Hyde Park. There are also Santander Cycles docking stations nearby for easy bike hire.
The paths around The Serpentine are generally flat and well-maintained, making them accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
The closest tube stations are Hyde Park Corner, Knightsbridge, and Lancaster Gate, all offering good access to Hyde Park and The Serpentine.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, swimming in The Serpentine Lido requires an entry fee. It's not free public swimming.
Opening hours for the Lido vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Royal Parks website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Typically, you can purchase tickets for the Lido on arrival, but it's advisable to check the latest policy to avoid disappointment, especially during peak times.
Yes, the Serpentine Galleries offer free admission to their exhibitions, making them a great free activity in Hyde Park.
Hyde Park itself is free to enter and explore. Fees only apply to specific attractions like the Serpentine Lido or boat rentals.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim at the Lido, rent rowing or pedal boats, go horse riding, enjoy lakeside walks, spot wildlife, and visit the Serpentine Galleries.
Yes, boat rentals, including rowing and pedal boats, are available on The Serpentine during its operating season.
Absolutely! Hyde Park Stables offers horse riding experiences along historic bridleways, including routes near The Serpentine.
The Serpentine is home to a variety of birdlife, including swans, ducks, and herons. You might also spot squirrels.
Yes, the Serpentine Galleries are located within Hyde Park, near The Serpentine, and feature contemporary art exhibitions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are several options, including The Magazine (known for its salads), Serpentine Bar & Kitchen (for pizza and casual bites), and The Friends of Ours pop-up (for brunch).
Yes, the Serpentine Bar & Kitchen offers food and drinks with outdoor seating, and The Magazine is also a popular cafe spot.
This pop-up offers Australian-inspired dishes, specialty coffees, and popular brunch items like nduja eggs and French toast.
Picnicking is a popular activity in Hyde Park. You can bring your own food and find a spot to enjoy it with views of The Serpentine.
Yes, The Magazine and Serpentine Bar & Kitchen offer dining with direct views of The Serpentine lake.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture reflections of the park and city skyline on the water, the Serpentine Pavilion architecture, and wildlife like swans and herons.
Yes, the Serpentine Pavilion is a popular subject for photographers, offering unique architectural shots within the park setting.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful light for photography, especially for capturing reflections and landscapes.
Yes, with patience and a good zoom lens, you can photograph the various bird species and other wildlife found around The Serpentine.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep an eye out for the parakeets and squirrels that inhabit the park – a delight for young nature lovers. 💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks or a picnic to enjoy by the water, saving money on dining out. While boat rentals and the Lido have costs, the core experience of enjoying the park's natural beauty and art is accessible to everyone. 💖 Couples
The Serpentine Bar & Kitchen or The Magazine offer charming spots for a coffee or meal with lovely lake views, perfect for conversation. +1 Alternatively, a horse riding session can be a unique and memorable date experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Swimming in The Serpentine: What You Need to Know
While some TikToks showcase the general lake, actual swimming is restricted to the Lido area. Be aware that the water quality is monitored, but it is a natural body of water, so expect a more natural swimming environment compared to a chlorinated pool. The Lido is typically open during the summer months, so it's essential to check the seasonal opening times before planning your swim.
Key takeaway: Swimming is permitted only at the Serpentine Lido, which requires an entrance fee and has specific operating hours. It's a managed facility, not open wild swimming.
Art and Architecture: The Serpentine Galleries
The South Gallery and North Gallery (formerly the Serpentine Gallery) host a dynamic program of exhibitions featuring contemporary artists from around the globe. These exhibitions are constantly changing, ensuring there's always something new to discover. Best of all, admission to both galleries is free, making them an accessible cultural highlight in London.
Recent pavilions have garnered significant attention, with the 2025 pavilion by Marina Tabassum being praised for its beauty and design. Visitors can enjoy coffee or a chat within these architectural wonders, blending art appreciation with a relaxing park experience.
Horse Riding Through History
It's an activity that appeals to both seasoned riders and beginners, with well-cared-for horses and experienced instructors. The surreal feeling of hacking through central London on horseback is a memorable adventure, perfect for a special occasion or a unique date idea.
Booking in advance is highly recommended, as slots, especially for private sessions or weekend rides, can fill up quickly. It's an experience that combines exercise, history, and the beauty of one of London's most iconic parks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit