News

LOOKING AT THE WATER
The watery features of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens can almost be taken for granted, such is their vastness, but this week we’ll take an insight into how we manage the water bodies of The Round Pond, The Long Water and The Serpentine.

Dear Friends and Supporters,
It’s many weeks since I last wrote to you. I have been able to take a back seat while our two wonderful correspondents at large have been writing a weekly blog for you. I think actually, that although they are Royal Parks technical officers, with their writing skill they could easily have a career change into the world of journalism.

With the Government recently releasing its Lockdown Easing Plan there has been a noticeable change within Hyde Park over the course of the week. Under the new guidelines The Royal Parks have been working to open some of the sports and catering facilities that were temporarily closed during lockdown. Following strict social distancing rules, a number of the park’s kiosks have been allowed to reopen, as well as the ‘Will to Win’ Sports Centre, for Tennis only. The Serpentine Swimmers Club has also been allowed to resume swimming at the Lido, which I am sure will be a relief for those dedicated members that swim there so religiously.

Everything to hope for
It has been proclaimed that we are past the peak. We wait with bated breath for news when we can start to live with slightly more freedom once again. The weather is fine, and the birds are singing. There are new beginnings. There is hope.

Hyde Park: The People’s Park
Last week we uncovered the very beginnings of Hyde Park and its transformation into a royal hunting ground for monarchs and various landed gentry. Since then, the park has evolved from a space exclusively used by royalty to one that is ‘for the people’. So how did this evolution in landscape and function occur?

The Enchanting History of Hyde
This week I want to turn the spotlight on Hyde Park’s colourful and intriguing past, in particular it’s early history. I am currently helping develop the new management plan for the park and as part of my research have discovered some very interesting and exciting aspects of the park that may not necessarily be known to all.

A Blue and Purple Theme
If last week was all about things very fine and showy, then this week we must have an appreciation for the smaller things. As the trees start to put on their coats of green there is a race against time for some plants to soak up the water, light and nutrients before the trees take it all for themselves.