St. James’s Park
Text and Pix by Nilma Dole reporting from UK
Being one of the oldest of
London’s parks, St.James’s Park was initially used for hunting purposes
by Henry VIII and then opened to the public by Charles II who used to
stroll through the grounds with his ladies and even take a dip in the
canal.
 By the 18th century, the park had quite a reputation by being
frequented by criminals. The park’s present landscape was brainstormed
by Nash in the 1820s with an elegant style that later on, became a model
for other parks to be built upon.
As you saunter breezily in the Park, you can witness the wealth of
bird life from pelicans to ducks. Nowadays, the banks of the lushly
decorated lake are a favourite among people for picnics and an active
energy workout. It was a hot spot for the Whitehall servants and an
inner-city reserve for the wildfowl.
James I’s crocodiles are now extinct but the pelicans, the first pair
supposedly gifted to Charles II by the Russian Ambassador, still call
St.James’s Park home.
On a good clear day, you can see geese, a great variety of ducks and
beautiful swans. So much the ducks make their presence, that there is a
Duck Island at the Park where they congregate and have quack time.
Gazing at the view over the bridge at St.James’s Park, you will be
treated to a stunning view over Westminster and a jumble of domes and
pinnacles along Whitehall from where even the Queen’s official
residence, Buckingham Palace is visible. St.James’s Park is a stopover
for many town people and is a great stress reliever for those who need a
break from the high society London life. In addition to this, there are
cool spots to take a breather and the Lady Diana Memorial Walk also
exists at St. James’s Park.
A great picnic spot, make sure you walk your dog on the pavement but
be cautious of pigeons. A real emerald relaxing spot in the middle of
the bustling city of London, St. James’s Park also has an Underground
tube station making it easier to get to it. |
