After spending a few hours in Notting Hill (and having one of the worst meals I’ve ever had in London) I went straight to Holland Park which was a mere 15 minutes away by walking. I love walking around London! Sorry, let me correct that – I love walking around in general as I’ve lived in a pedestrian-unfriendly place for the past couple of years so walking for me is a brand new thing that I now love doing every single day.
I passed by tree-lined streets and beautiful pubs with streetview outdoor seating. It was particularly a hot day, a very rare occurrence for London as it would normally be raining or cold around this time of the year. I guess I brought the heat with me from the Middle East.
There was a short uphill walk from the entrance of Holland Park and as I reached the flat level of the park, I was panting! Not a good sign since it was such a short walk. I’m so unfit! I should do more of this walking I guess. Inside the park itself, the temperature got cooler. All the trees instantly gave me a natural air-conditioning. I had to stop for a bit to catch my breathe and cool down.
I immediately went to the Kyoto Gardens which was absolutely lovely! I’ve seen so many beautiful photos of it before and I knew that I just had to see it. There was a pond in the middle with koi carps and a falls at the far end. It was a typical Japanese garden which was full of abstract aesthetics and beautiful landscape.
Kyoto Gardens was a bit small so I just spent probably 15 minutes there before I had to get out. It was too small for the amount of people in it so I ventured out and explored the rest of Holland Park which was massive. I spent about an hour in here just walking around, having coffee at the cafe inside the park and watching kids as they played on one of the many playgrounds dotted around the park. I really do love the park life here in London. There’s always one nearby where people can go to for relaxation, picnic or even sports. It’s a very new concept for me, new but absolutely welcome.
The nearest tube stations to Holland Park are Kensington High Street, Notting Hill Gate and Holland Park. The park is open from 7:30 am until 30 minutes before dusk.
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I absolutely love Holland Park! I don’t go there as often as I’d like to, but it really is gorgeous 🙂
The best way to explore London is by walking, you never know what new you might discover on your way! Beautiful pictures of the park, you were lucky that you got to explore the park on a sunny day! 🙂
I see you’re getting familiar with the neighborhood. How exciting the first few months in a new place when you’re getting to know the area.
I’m on a high! Loving it. 🙂
pretty!
It sure is! 🙂