Kensington Gardens, Royal park in central London, United Kingdom
Kensington Gardens covers 265 acres with broad walking paths, planted flowerbeds, mature trees, and the central Round Pond water feature. The parkland forms a connected section with the adjacent Hyde Park, creating a continuous green space.
The garden began in the 17th century as private grounds of Kensington Palace, serving the royal family. Opening to the public occurred in 1841 to provide urban residents with access to green space.
The Serpentine Galleries host changing contemporary art exhibitions in pavilion-style buildings set within the parkland. The Italian Gardens present Victorian ornamental fountains and water basins arranged in symmetrical layouts.
Four underground stations serve the area: Lancaster Gate, Queensway, High Street Kensington, and Gloucester Road, with daily access from 6 AM. The paths are mostly paved or tarmacked and allow access with wheelchairs or pushchairs in most sections.
The Diana Memorial Playground contains a wooden pirate ship and beach area inspired by the Peter Pan stories set within these grounds. The sculpture Physical Energy by George Frederic Watts stands at the southern edge and was placed in 1904 as a memorial to Cecil Rhodes.
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