Regent’s Park is one of London’s largest parks, covering over 410 acres. The Prince Regent (later King George IV) established it on one of King Henry VIII’s former hunting grounds, and it has been a royal park ever since. It boasts several gardens, a zoo, an open-air theatre, and various sports pitches, making visiting one of the best free things to do in London.
If you’re considering a day out at Regent’s Park, our guide has everything you need to know to plan the perfect visit.
Things to do at Regent’s Park
Wildlife and gardens
Regent’s Park hosts a diverse array of natural beauty, wildlife and well-tended gardens.
The park’s 400 acres accommodate various habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, wetlands and wildflower meadows. It’s home to over 120 species of bird and central London’s only breeding population of hedgehogs.
Queen Mary’s Gardens, at the heart of the park, boast 85 rose beds. In early June, 40,000 roses burst into bloom from 12,000 rose bushes. It’s any flower enthusiast’s dream! Next door is the Japanese Garden, a serene oasis with a hidden waterfall, bridges and sculptures.
The Avenue Gardens, near the Broad Walk, were designed by architect John Nash. They feature tiered fountains, seasonal floral displays, and lime, juniper, and tulip-tree-lined avenues.
London Zoo
London Zoo is the world’s oldest scientific zoo, established in 1828. Nestled in the northern part of the park, the zoo boasts one of the UK’s largest animal collections, with around 750 species. From endangered giant tortoises to squirrel monkeys, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the animal kingdom.
Open-air theatre
Located within Queen Mary’s Gardens, the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre offers a unique theatre-going experience. Established in 1932, it has 1,304 seats, attracting over 140,000 people annually during its 18-week season (May to September). Visitors can expect unforgettable performances of classics like Twelfth Night and Oliver Twist and more recent productions like The Enormous Crocodile and The Secret Garden.
Sports
Sporty visitors have several options at Regent’s Park, from football to netball. There are 12 tennis courts, two padel courts and three netball courts. In the winter, grass pitches are used for football, rugby and lacrosse, making way for cricket, softball, rounders and touch rugby in summer.
Kids’ playgrounds
Children have enjoyed Gloucester Gate Playground, next to London Zoo, since the 1930s. It has a 50-metre zip wire, climbing frames, slides, swings and sandpits. Best of all? The playground was designed with accessibility in mind, so it has wheelchair-accessible roundabouts and bridge features, as well as wide slides and raised tables.
The southern side of Regent’s Park has Marylebone Green Playground. Three themed sections (the Traditional, Art and Natural Zones) have rock-climbing, seesaws, sand pits and more.
Picnic
No trip to the park is complete without a picnic. Pack sandwiches, sausage rolls and salads, spread your picnic blanket, and tuck in. On weekends between 17 June and 17 September, pitch up by the Bandstand or the Broad Walk to enjoy free live music with your meal.
Events
Regent’s Park is an entertainment hub year-round. It holds various events such as Taste Festival, a 5-day celebration of food and drink held in June, and Frieze, a contemporary art fair showcasing some of the world’s finest artists.
Things to do near Regent’s Park
You’re spoilt for things to do near Regent’s Park. Head to vibrant Camden for food stalls, stroll along Regent’s Canal, and visit markets that sell crafts, clothing and books. Wellcome Collection has some of the best exhibitions in London.
Head to Madame Tussauds to pose with some of the world’s best celebrity waxworks (and get 10% off with SWR Rewards)!
Food and drinks
Regent’s Park has various food and drink options to explore, whether it’s al-fresco picnicking or lakeside dining.
The Waterside Café offers flatbread pizza, ice cream, various hot and cold beverages, and stunning views over the Boating Lake. Regent’s Bar and Kitchen has a diverse menu, serving classics like fish and chips alongside fusion dishes such as Indian spiced lentil and cumin burgers. Meanwhile, the Broad Walk Café is your go-to for light bites like pastries, sandwiches and salads.
Regent’s Park accessibility
Regent’s Park, at the park’s south entrance, is the closest step-free station. Regent’s Park is wheelchair accessible and has several accessible toilets. Blue badge parking is free for up to four hours in both the Inner and Outer Circle.
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