Hyde Park
One of the greatest city parks in the world covering 142 hectares with over 4,000 trees, a large lake, a meadow and further ornamental flower gardens, all here in the home of London’s arts and science district.
South Kensington has plenty of great attractions for you to visit outside from boating on the Serpentine, walking tours around Albertopolis, Queen Caroline's temple, the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain, ice cream in Kensington Gardens, a trip to Princess Diana's Memorial Playground and so much more....
One of the greatest city parks in the world covering 142 hectares with over 4,000 trees, a large lake, a meadow and further ornamental flower gardens, all here in the home of London’s arts and science district.
Recharge and cool down in the heart of the V&A. A place for kids to paddle in the courtyard shallow pool or grab a drink while surrounded by summer planting and stunning Victorian architecture.
Mon - Sun
10 am - 5.45 pm
V&A South Kensington
Visit Website for John Madejski Garden & Café at V&A South Kensington
Why not plan your visit to South Ken using the Footways walking map available at railway stations and online? You can plan your route away from the busy roads and discover an alternative side to London.
Formal avenues, magnificent trees, ornamental flower beds, and wildflower meadows outside Kensington Palace make this a stunning end to our trail as well as home to the Princess Diana Playground, the Italian Water Gardens and the Albert Memorial.
Mon - Sun
6 am - 9.30 pm
Kensington Gardens
Visit Website for Kensington Gardens at Kensington Gardens
The beautiful Sunken Garden was planted in 1908, transforming part of the gardens previously occupied by potting sheds into a tranquil ornamental garden. Today, the garden continues the tradition of rotational flower displays in the spring and summer.
If you’re planning your trip to South Ken, take a look at our new walking map, created with Footways, where you can discover a range of wonderful routes to take a quiet stroll & discover our extraordinary history. Get off the tube a stop early and explore London’s home of arts, science and inspiration by foot.
South Ken Culture Quarter
Visit Website for Quiet walking routes to and around South Ken at South Ken Culture Quarter
Fun, free things to do in a park, on the street, or anywhere outdoors.
Online
Natural History Museum
Visit Website for Outdoor Activities for Kids at Natural History Museum
Delve into the history of Kensington Palace with a 15-minute talk with an expert member of our guide team.
Wed - Sun
11.30 am, 12.30 pm, 1.30 pm, 2.30 pm & 3.30 pm
Kensington Palace
Visit Website for Daily Talks at Kensington Palace at Kensington Palace
After major conservation work, the 18th-century Orangery at Kensington Palace has reopened its doors. Visit the iconic restaurant in a stunning setting for an elegant lunch or an indulgent afternoon tea.
Mon - Sun
10 am - 6 pm
Kensington Palace
Visit Website for The Orangery Restaurant at Kensington Palace
If you are planning a day out in South Kensington, there are lots of delicious places to eat or enjoy a drink both inside and outside depending on the weather. From cafes, bars, afternoon tea to indoor picnic areas - there is plenty of choice!
This year's Serpentine Pavilion has been designed by the Mexican architecture studio LANZA atelier, founded by Isabel Abascal and Alessandro Arienzo. The crinkle-crankle wall derives its stability from its curving form, requiring fewer bricks than a straight wall.
Until 25th Oct 2026
Serpentine
Visit Website for Serpentine Pavilion 2026 by LANZA atelier at Serpentine
Enjoy looking at monuments and memorials in Kensington Gardens- including the most famous Albert Memorial, statue of Peter Pan and The Arch by Henry Moore.
Daily
6 am - 5.30 pm
Kensington Gardens
Visit Website for Monuments in Kensington Gardens at Kensington Gardens
Join this volunteer-led tour to discover incredible stories of women in the field of science.
Explore the King's State Apartments, each grander than the last. These rooms contain many sculptures and works of art, such as the terracotta busts of George II and his wife Queen Caroline, made by Michael Rysbrack in 1738 and 1739.
Wed - Sun
10 am - 6 pm from Mar to Oct; 10 am - 4 pm from Nov to Feb
Kensington Palace
Visit Website for The King's State Apartments at Kensington Palace