Self-guided walks through the Royal Parks
There really is something magical about taking a self-guided walk through the Royal Parks in autumn. In the spring of 2020, The Royal Parks launched a campaign called ‘More Than Bugs Trails’. There are eight Royal Parks in total and we’re very lucky to have Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens just a short walk from our front door. The Royal Parks are a glorious insight to how nature can thrive when it is nurtured properly. These self-guided walks have been designed to help people discover more about how The Royal Parks plan on maintaining conservation through various initiatives but also to introduce people to the parks smallest inhabitants - the invertebrates.
Does this sound like something that interests you? Then continue reading as we give you a brief rundown of a selection of walks that take you through both Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park.
The Ladybird Trail
The Ladybird Trail was created with the idea of being suitable for all ages, the trail begins at the Italian Gardens café and leads you along the North Flower Walk in Kensington Gardens. With several invertebrate-themed sculptures on the journey it’s a fascinating walk and very informative.
Once you’ve finished your walk if your little ones have the energy be sure to visit the Buck Hill Playground or continue your walk looping around the Serpentine and onto the Water Beetle Walk.
Water Beetle Walk
Designed as a slightly longer trail the Water Beetle Walk takes around forty minutes to complete, you’ll navigate your way around the Long Water in Kensington Gardens all the while being able to witness the role that invertebrates play in the Royal Parks ecosystems. The walk itself is a large circle and ends at the Italian Gardens café, which is perfect to enjoy a coffee and a snack whilst you process what you’ve learnt. The trail starts and ends at the Lancaster Gate entrance which is about a five minute walk from our hotel.
Dragonfly Trail
This trail is designed for seasoned ramblers and can take around seventy minutes to complete. You’ll be directed through freshwater habitats, grassland and woodland and learn how invertebrates assist in keeping the Royal Parks blooming and their habitats healthy for people and wildlife.
In a similar style to the Water Beetle Walk, the trail itself forms a large loop, unless stated all of the above trails and walks are on pathways and can therefore be completed with buggies and wheelchairs.
If you’re planning a stay with us here at Mercure London Hyde Park then we certainly recommend a visit to the beautiful Royal Parks, whether you fancy a self-guided walking tour or just a casual stroll with some glorious scenery. Once you’re finished come and rest your legs in one of our 4* hotel rooms near Hyde Park and let us do the rest.
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