WhyWaitForever - London
WhyWaitForever - London - Images of Kensington Gardens
These pictures were taken in Kensington Gardens on the late May public holiday. The day varied from bright sunshine to brief downpours. WhyWaitForever - London - Sights has a link to the official Royal Parks site.
Our walk started at Green Park Tube station. We walked parallel to Constitution Hill and Piccadilly with the Ritz behind. In the distance others awaited the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Using the underpass we crossed to St Michaels Mount passed Wellington, Apsley House and the old St Georges hospital (now long gone) and then entered Hyde Park. After tea by the Serpentine and a stroll by the boats we entered Kensington Gardens.
Our first stop was the Serpentine Gallery then along the tree lined paths to the Albert Hall and the restored magnificence of the Albert Memorial. From here we made a circular route via the Round Pond, Kensington Palace, Bayswater and the statue of Peter Pan.
Sadness and Romance
When Queen Elenor died, crosses were erected at the places the funeral procession halted for the night. Queen Caroline loved by London had the Serpentine built. Queen Victoria had the Albert Memorial built. In the north of the Gardens the Princess Diana memorial childrens play park is nearing completion.
The feeling in Kensington Gardens is magical and different than in Hyde Park. The tree lined paths more controlled and yet more controlling. The Round Pond where many an Admiral has taken the first steps in their craft is as open and challenging yet so deceptively simple. Peter Pan casts his spell and we remain timeless and unchanged.