Hyde Park, which opened to the public in 1637, is the
largest of several royal parks in London that are connected to each other,
forming one large green lung in the center of the city. The park is famous for
its Speakers' Corner.
Hyde Park covers more than 360 acres (142 hectares) and hosts many large
events, including celebrations and concerts. It is also a popular place for
jogging, swimming, rowing, picnicking and even horse riding
In 1536 King Henry VIII confiscated Hyde Park from the monks of Westminster Abbey. It was used primarily for hunting. King Charles I opened the park to
the public in 1637. The current park layout was planned by architect Decimus
Burton in 1825.