The Serpentine - Mount Nebo Memorial of Moses
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The Serpentine

4.6
·491k reviews·Wilderness, South Africa

An iconic London lake and cultural hub in Hyde Park, offering art, boating, swimming, and serene green space.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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The Serpentine - Mount Nebo Memorial of Moses

The Serpentine

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic London lake and cultural hub in Hyde Park, offering art, boating, swimming, and serene green space.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A perfect blend of art, nature, and recreation right in the heart of London."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Gallery Exhibitions

See what's on at the Serpentine Galleries before you go!

Book Boats in Advance

For boating, especially on weekends, booking ahead is wise.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Serpentine Galleries

Serpentine Galleries

Hyde Park

World-renowned contemporary art exhibitions in stunning architectural spaces.

Boating on the Lake

Boating on the Lake

The Serpentine Lake

Rent a pedalo or rowboat for a classic London park experience with beautiful views.

Diana Memorial Fountain

Diana Memorial Fountain

South side of The Serpentine

A beautiful, flowing tribute to Princess Diana, offering a peaceful spot for reflection.

The Serpentine Lido

The Serpentine Lido

South side of The Serpentine

Take a dip in London's most famous outdoor swimming spot, a refreshing summer activity.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Serpentine Visit

Beat the crowds by visiting The Serpentine on weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends and summer evenings can get busy with events and picnickers. Check the Serpentine Galleries' schedule for special exhibitions or parties.

Embrace the Outdoors

The Serpentine is an iconic part of Hyde Park, perfect for a stroll, boating, or even a refreshing swim. Pack comfortable shoes for walking and consider bringing a picnic to enjoy by the water. Remember to check water quality if you plan to swim.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Ideal for boating and swimming
Crowd
Medium
When
Event evenings
Why
Experience lively parties
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Skepta shares a fit check at The Serpentine Summer Party – and it's all from his brand, Mains.
britishgq
13.7K likes • 358.1K views

Check Gallery Exhibitions

See what's on at the Serpentine Galleries before you go! Instagram

Book Boats in Advance

For boating, especially on weekends, booking ahead is wise. Reddit

Dear Friends, I’m very excited to share the news that Serpentine is hosting our studio’s largest institutional solo exhibition in the UK to date, “Echoes of the Earth: Living Archive,” from February 16th to April 7th, 2024. The exhibition showcases new and recent works, including early interactions from The Large Nature Model - the world’s first open-source generative AI model dedicated to nature....
refikanadol
23.8K likes • 592.3K views
In 2023 Lina Ghotmeh , architect, designed the Serpentine Pavilion in London, a circular space named “À table,” imagined as a place of gathering. But above all, she was chosen to rethink the Western Range of the British Museum in London, the sanctuary of British culture. She is also responsible for designing Qatar’s permanent national pavilion at the Venice Biennale. And she has been selected to c...
judithbenhamou
10 likes • 285 views

Swim Safely

Check water quality and safety guidelines before swimming. Reddit

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking in Hyde Park! :athletic_shoe:

Princess Diana in the iconic black dress arriving at the Serpentine Gallery in 1994.
history
31K likes • 995.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Gallery Exhibitions

See what's on at the Serpentine Galleries before you go! Instagram

Book Boats in Advance

For boating, especially on weekends, booking ahead is wise. Reddit

Swim Safely

Check water quality and safety guidelines before swimming. Reddit

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking in Hyde Park! :athletic_shoe:

Picnic Perfect

Grab some snacks and enjoy a picnic by the water. :sandwich:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about The Serpentine as a beautiful and versatile oasis in the heart of London, perfect for art, recreation, and relaxation. While the galleries are a major draw, the lake offers classic park activities like boating and swimming. Some find the park can get crowded, especially during events or on sunny weekends.

What People Like

Beautiful lake views
World-class art galleries
Boating and swimming fun

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Event disruptions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Serpentine is easily accessible via several Tube stations. Knightsbridge (Piccadilly Line) and Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly Line) are closest to the south side, while Lancaster Gate (Central Line) and Marble Arch (Central Line) are near the north. Numerous bus routes also serve the area. Reddit

Limited on-street parking is available around Hyde Park, but it can be expensive and fill up quickly. It's generally recommended to use public transport or ride-sharing services. Reddit

Yes, cycling is permitted in Hyde Park on designated paths. There are also several Santander Cycles docking stations nearby for easy bike hire. :bike:

Hyde Park has many accessible paths, and the Serpentine area is generally navigable. The Serpentine Galleries also offer accessible entrances and facilities. :wheelchair:

Walking is the most popular way to explore. You can also rent boats or join a guided tour of Hyde Park for a different perspective. :walking:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Serpentine lake and Hyde Park are free to enter. However, specific exhibitions at the Serpentine Galleries may require tickets, and boating or swimming may have associated fees. Instagram

The Serpentine Galleries typically open around 10 AM and close at 6 PM, but it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially during exhibition changes. Instagram

Boat rental prices vary but are generally affordable for an hour's hire. Expect to pay around £10-£15 for a pedalo or rowboat. Reddit

Yes, there is a small entry fee for the Serpentine Lido, which helps maintain the facilities. Prices are usually very reasonable for a refreshing swim. :moneywithwings:

Dogs are welcome in Hyde Park but must be kept on a lead in certain areas, especially around the Serpentine lake and the Diana Memorial Fountain. :dog:

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy boating, swimming (at the Lido), walking, picnicking, and visiting the Serpentine Galleries. It's a versatile spot for relaxation and culture. TikTok

Swimming is permitted only in the designated Serpentine Lido area, which is supervised. Open swimming in the main lake is generally discouraged due to safety and water quality concerns. Reddit

Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants within Hyde Park, including the Serpentine Bar & Kitchen, offering various dining options. Reddit

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for photography. The Serpentine Galleries' architecture also makes for striking shots. Instagram

The Serpentine often hosts events, including the Serpentine Summer Party and various art installations. It's worth checking their schedule for special happenings. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The bridges over the lake, the Serpentine Galleries' unique architecture, and the Diana Memorial Fountain offer great photographic opportunities. The reflections on the water are also stunning. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in Royal Parks like Hyde Park for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to avoid flying drones here. :noentrysign:

Photography is usually allowed in public areas of the galleries, but flash photography and filming may be restricted inside exhibition spaces. Always check signage. Instagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive park views, and a telephoto can be useful for wildlife. :camerawithflash:

Yes, you can often spot various bird species, including swans and ducks, on and around the lake, making it a good spot for casual wildlife photography. :bird:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Serpentine offers a fantastic day out for families. Kids will love boating on The Serpentine lake, a fun and engaging activity that provides plenty of laughs. The Diana Memorial Playground, located nearby in Kensington Gardens, is also a huge hit with younger children, featuring a pirate ship and sensory play areas. Reddit Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, and let the little ones run around in the vast open spaces of Hyde Park. The Serpentine Galleries can also be engaging for older children with their often interactive exhibits. :child:

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, the Serpentine Galleries are a must-visit. They consistently host thought-provoking exhibitions of contemporary art, often in stunning architectural settings. Keep an eye on their schedule for major retrospectives, like the Matisse the Serpentine exhibition, or for the unveiling of the annual Serpentine Pavilion. Instagram+1 The galleries are free to enter, making them an accessible cultural treat. Don't miss the chance to explore the unique designs of the pavilions and the main gallery buildings themselves. :art:

🏃‍♀️ Active Visitors

The Serpentine is an ideal spot for those who enjoy an active day out. Swimming in The Serpentine at the Lido is a refreshing experience during summer. The park offers miles of paths perfect for jogging or a brisk walk, and boating on The Serpentine provides a gentle workout. Reddit Consider renting a Santander Cycle to explore Hyde Park and its surroundings more extensively. :runner:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Serpentine Galleries: Art and Architecture

The Serpentine Galleries are a cornerstone of the Serpentine experience, showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art in two architecturally distinct buildings within Kensington Gardens. The original gallery, established in 1970, is complemented by a newer structure designed by the renowned architects Herzog & de Meuron and Ai Weiwei. Each year, a temporary Serpentine Pavilion is commissioned from a leading international architect, offering a unique, ephemeral structure that becomes a focal point for public engagement and events. Instagram+1

These galleries are celebrated for their commitment to presenting challenging and innovative exhibitions, often featuring emerging artists alongside established names. The programming is diverse, encompassing painting, sculpture, film, and digital art. The Matisse the Serpentine exhibition, for instance, was a major event that drew significant crowds, highlighting the caliber of art hosted here. TikTok The unique architectural designs of the galleries themselves are often as much a draw as the art within, providing stunning backdrops for visitors and photographers alike. Instagram

Activities on The Serpentine Lake

The Serpentine Lake is the heart of outdoor activity in this part of Hyde Park. The most popular pastime is boating on The Serpentine, with pedalos and rowboats available for hire. Gliding across the water offers a different perspective of the park and a chance to enjoy the cityscape from a serene vantage point. It's a classic London experience that's perfect for couples or families looking for some lighthearted fun. Reddit

For the more adventurous, swimming in The Serpentine is possible at the dedicated Serpentine Lido, a supervised outdoor pool that opens during the warmer months. It's a refreshing way to cool down and experience a piece of London's history, as it's one of the city's oldest outdoor swimming spots. Swimming at The Serpentine is a popular activity for locals and tourists alike, offering a unique urban escape. Reddit Remember to check water quality and adhere to all safety guidelines before taking a dip. Reddit

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