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A Guide to the Tate Modern

With so many galleries and museums spread throughout the city, visitors will find no shortage of cultural experiences and things to see come rain or shine. One of these galleries is the Tate Modern, located across the river from the hotels in London near Hyde Park, a stone’s throw from the London Eye and other popular attractions along the Southbank.

But while most of the galleries and museums across London deal with traditional, historical, and educational exhibitions which focus on Britain’s past and how London formed part of the industrial growth of the nation, the Tate Modern focuses on something a little different.

With a distinct focus on modern art and what it means to be a contemporary creative, the Tate Modern contains iconic and brand new and unseen work from across the UK and further afield.

Here’s all you need to know about visiting the Tate Modern.

Getting to the Tate Modern

Accessing the Tate Modern is easy on foot and via the underground, with the closest underground station being Southwark on the Jubilee Line. For those travelling from accommodation near Hyde Park, Green Park is the most accessible tube station – or you could wander down to the gallery on foot, by boat, or on one of the local Boris bikes available for hire.

What can you see at the Tate Modern?

The Tate Modern is a celebration of modern art which spans both the UK and international destinations, representing different creative styles and a plethora of installations which span entire hallways and take up small corners depending on the artist and what they hope to achieve.

In comparison with the refined grandeur of the art found in Park Avenue Hyde Park and other central hotels and venues, the Tate Modern features art which is more subjective, and which invites visitors to consider what each piece means to them.

Some of the leading exhibitions and installations to look out for include:

· The Turbine Hall, home to sculptures and unique installations which change throughout the year.

· Henri Matisse’s modern works, which feature plenty of colour and swirling shapes.

·David Hockney’s works which encompass pieces inspired by photographs and by reimagined settings and scenarios which he comes across as part of his everyday life.

What do you need to know about the Tate Modern?

For those who decide to forego breakfast near Hyde Park and head straight to the gallery for opening time, there is an onsite café, kitchen and bar, as well as a shop for all your souvenir hunting and gifts. One of the best things about the onsite kitchen in particular is the way it combines great food and an assortment of beverages with leading views of London’s skyline – featuring the window and the view as just another example of modern and ever-changing art.

Visiting the Tate Modern is a great way to enjoy a different kind of art in London – with this gallery garnering just as much interest among locals and tourists alike, as those which deal with historical works.

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How to get to Stonehenge from London

If you’re staying in London for an extended period of time, whether you got a great deal at your hotel in Hyde Park or are in the city for business, then it can be a good idea to explore day trips and adventures outside of the city.

Stonehenge remains one of the most interesting historical sites in the south of England and can be enjoyed as a solo expedition or as part of a guided tour.

But for those staying in the heart of the city, finding their way from the Park Avenue Hotel Hyde Park to the outskirts of Stonehenge can be difficult – which is where this blog comes in. To help you plan your day trip or southern adventure, we’ve compiled a handful of the easiest ways to get to Stonehenge from London, so you can make the most of your visit and be back in time for dinner.

Travel by Bus

If you want to get to Stonehenge directly while benefitting from an opportunity to enjoy the British countryside on your travels, then getting the bus can be an excellent way of immersing yourself in the landscape. Departing from London Victoria Station, a stone’s throw from the popular hotels and accommodation near Hyde Park, there are two different bus options you can follow, one which is a shuttle taking groups of visitors to Stonehenge directly, while the other is a broader sightseeing bus which will take you as far as Salisbury.

Once you’re at Salisbury, you can either hop on a Stonehenge shuttle which is geared towards tourist arrivals, or alternatively book yourself a taxi to the historic site.

Travel by Train

The other way of getting to Stonehenge via public transport is by train, with the more direct line running from London Waterloo station which is just over the river from the hotels in London near Hyde Park and the city centre. Again, you need to be looking for a direct route to Salisbury and then using a taxi or local shuttle bus to get you directly to the site.

Join a Tour

The final and most immersive option available to those visiting London is to join some form of tour, which starts and ends in the city centre, and which includes everything from travel to some information and insight into the history of Stonehenge through the presence of a dedicated tour guide. If you want to enjoy a day out without worrying about logistics, timings, and travel, then we recommend this as the option for you; not to mention when you become part of a tour you get to enjoy the camaraderie of likeminded tourists.

Stonehenge is a major part of the British landscape and local history, and offers visitors from all over the world a chance to understand a little more about how this site – one of the Seven Wonders of the World – is regarded as one of the most mysterious and magical attractions in the UK.

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The Best Viewpoints in London

Sometimes it’s not enough to see London from the comfort of your club double room in your hotel near Hyde Park London. While the charming streets and boutique hotel buildings near Hyde Park London offer a certain charm and an immersive look at how the traditional and the modern have united across the city, for many tourists it is the view across the entire city that makes London worth visiting.

But with that said, how and where can you enjoy such a view?

Oxo Tower

Enjoy the view from London’s Southbank while tucking into a delicious meal or a high end cocktail at the Oxo Tower. Not only is this an impeccable event space but it offers the kind of dine-in luxury that puts it on par with the 5 star restaurants near Hyde Park – and that’s without looking out the window and taking in the view across the river.

From the viewing platform above the restaurant, the Oxo Tower looks towards St Paul’s Cathedral and the Millennium Bridge – and is a popular place for viewing the fireworks in and around the city on New Year’s Eve.

One Tree Hill

Not just the name of a high school drama set in America – One Tree Hill is also a viewing point in South London which offers a panoramic view encompassing the Shard, St Paul’s Cathedral, and some of the London city as well as the hordes of tourists mingled with commuters every day.

The perfect spot to head on a clear day, with none of the cost that comes with some of London’s best viewing spots.

Sky Garden

Another completely free experience, although this is one you have to reserve in advance. The Sky Garden is situated close to London Liverpool Street station and is right at the top of its building – boasting an enviable view across London from all four sides. The interior space is made from entirely glass walls, while the outside terrace offers a perfectly clear view on a nice day.

Though the view is free, drinks up here cost a lot so make sure to save your visit for a special occasion or for a day you’re willing to splurge as part of your London adventure.

London Eye

Moving away from the free experiences and viewing points, there has never been a more stylish way to look upon London than from a pod on the London Eye. As you move around the wheel, you see different perspectives and enjoy different viewpoints – alongside information about what you’re looking at.

Greenwich Park

Located in the South East of London, Greenwich Park is often flooded with visitors on a sunny day and during the summer months, thanks to its expanse of grassland and its gorgeous views across to the city and beyond. A great place to enjoy a date or a day out with friends, the rising hills of Greenwich Park make this a great place from which to look across at the city you’re visiting – and maybe even plan future adventures in and around the city of London.

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Brutalist London: Our Guide

Brutalist architecture is something you either love or hate. London has some marvellous examples of brutalism, and no matter which side your preference falls on, they’re certainly striking to look at.

Following World War II brutalism played an important part in shaping the landscape of London as the city was re-built, with clean lines and severe structures they once appeared modern and brave. Today these buildings create a sharp contrast to the ornate and decorative buildings they share a context with and are an important part of London’s architectural history.

The Barbican

After being almost entirely razed by the Blitz, the Barbican’s architects created an ambitious and unique proposal to transform and rebuild the site. Today it’s home to 4,000 residents across 2,000 flats, organised around schools, a church, a library, an artificial lake, conservatory and an entire arts centre. The planners left no detail unconsidered, from the 40 storey towers to the basement theatre and cinemas. 

The entire site received Grade II listed status in 2001 and today visitors can explore the site freely, including the many public spaces, cafes, restaurants, highwalks and estate gardens. 

With an imposing portico, classic Georgian features and neat little window boxes, the Park Avenue J Hotel couldn;t be further from brutalism. Exuding character on the outside, and wrapping you in comfort on the inside, make sure you look for this hotel near Hyde Park, London.

The Brunswick

Brunswick centre was designed and opened in the 1960s, as a mixed development with an open shopping precinct complete with cinema and residential accommodation above. Located in the heart of Bloomsbury, and surrounded by rows of Georgian houses,  in true brutalist tradition The Brunswick completely excludes its local environment and dominates the environment with its bold straight edges.

National Theatre

Completed and opened in 1976, it received a mixed reception and Prince Charles famously said that it “looks like a nuclear power station”. Today the National Theatre is a must-see attraction for theatre lovers and those strolling along the Southbank. As much of a giant concrete sculpture as it is a building, the brutalist credentials of the National Theatre are strong. With its expressive and extravagant exterior and cave-like interior, it has a fort-like appearance made more notable by its presence on the bank of the Thames. 

The Park Avenue J Hotel gives you the comfort, convenience and calm needed to make your stay memorable and convenient. Hotels near Bayswater, London are perfectly situated to support your visits to all of London’s top attractions and with restaurants near Hyde Park, what better way to start and end each day than with a quality dining experience.

Alexandra Road Estate

Located in Camden, the estate is home to arguably the best example of Brutalist architecture in the whole of London, maybe even the UK. 

Aesthetically, the estate is striking and features unique concrete block symmetry and imposing facades. With bold linear angles everywhere you look, it’s a fascinating place to stroll around and sure to be like no other housing estate you’ll ever visit.

Get started on your planning for a trip around London’s brutalist buildings with accommodation near Hyde Park in London.

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The Best Terraces in London for Outdoor Dining

No matter where in London you’re staying, you can be fairly sure that when the sun comes out, restaurants and cafes will do what they can to offer outdoor seating. As you walk by the restaurants near Hyde Park, and the hotels near Bayswater London with onsite dining options and bars, you will notice bistro tables, umbrellas, and even the odd roof terrace opening up to give guests some extra space to enjoy their drinks and meals.

But rather than sending you on your own hunt, past the hotels of Hyde Park London and further into the city, we thought it was time we created a go-to guide to the best terraces in London.

Eataly’s Famous Terrace

As you step outside of London Liverpool Street Station, the first building you will see to the left of the exit is Eataly – a magnanimous Italian produce store, filled with the finest wines, meats, and treats from the country, alongside cafes, bars, and restaurants serving all manner of fresh produce and baked goods.

The outside terrace may back onto the main road past the station, but the attention to detail and delicate decoration makes it feel like your very own little Italian oasis – supported with Aperol branded carts, plenty of greenery, and of course some delicious cocktails that help transport your mind to Italian vineyards.

Davies and Brook at Claridge’s

This is one for those who are staying in accommodation near Hyde Park London – as the popular Claridge’s terrace is just a short walk South of Hyde Park towards Mayfair. And if you find the walk through the busy London streets a little daunting then just know that what awaits you at the other side is well worth the step count.

Far from just offering a high end outdoor seating option, Davies and Brook is actually a restaurant with a Michelin star making it one of the best places in the area for a delicious meal – the menu using seasonal and local ingredients as much as possible.

London’s Zoo’s terraced restaurant

If you’re a family group and want to combine an al fresco meal with a family-friendly experience, then look no further than London Zoo’s own restaurant – which boasts an expansive terrace overlooking the main area of the zoo.

Sushi Samba

Another one close to Liverpool Street Station, Sushi Samba is popular with couples, corporate dinners, celebrations and more – with its high-up terrace offering spectacular views over London as you enjoy your meal. Sat at the 39th floor, the panoramic viewpoint is matched only by that at the Sky Garden which, a few minutes’ walk away from Sushi Samba, boasts its own inside-outside bar space for those seeking the perfect view over the city. 

From fine dining to family friendly experiences and days out, when the sun shines in London you should make the most of it – jumping straight to the closest terrace or outdoor bistro table you can find. And with so many options available to you, topping up your tan over a cocktail has never been easier. 

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The best crazy golf in London

London has a lot to offer tourists and visitors. There are attractions and destinations to suit all different types of people and budgets. 

Crazy golf is an accessible, cheap and easy to play activity, providing lots of opportunities to laugh and be entertained. This makes it a popular game to play individually, in pairs, or as a group or family. 

Why not look for one of the excellent boutique hotels near Hyde Park that would make a great place to stay before heading out for a game. 

With golf course themes ranging from the mythical to the exotic, check out our list of the best places to go.

Junkyard Golf Club

These rough and ready crazy golf courses made up from reclaimed junk, (hence the name), are bizarre, full of UV light and great fun! with loud music, cocktails and a great vibe, Junkyard Golf is a great place to start your London golf tour.

Jurassic Encounter Adventure Golf

This mini golf course is beautifully landscaped and gives players the chance to putt around cascading waterfalls, over island greens and through prehistoric caves. Surrounded by moving, and roaring, life-sized dinosaurs, what better surroundings for a fun packed activity in London?

After a prehistoric adventure, you might want to unwind in a luxurious hotel near Bayswater road. 

Dragon Quest Adventure Golf

On this 18 hole Croydon course, you can expect a family friendly atmosphere and loads of fun. The paths are punctuated by dragon’s footprints and with holes situated in castle turrets and obstacles such as waterfalls (there’s even a trebuchet), every hole presents a unique challenge. 

Pop Golf 

Pop Golf offers a unique experience that fuses crazy golf and pop music. The ethos is to bring people together through music and play. It’s a playground that’s made up of 9 pop-themed holes and the background music is provided via a top notch sound system. 

With their interactive audio technology and a context providing an immersive experience, this crazy golf course is truly like no other.

After an evening on the course, you might want to find yourself a single room near Hyde Park to relax in. The next day, you can also find yourself breakfast at Hyde Park before you go back out to explore London further.

Putt in the Park, Battersea

Situated in the heart of Battersea Park, this is a golf experience that will entice seasoned pros and complete beginners alike. Accessible to all ages, you will navigate your way through slopes, cascades and rockeries. Afterwards, there is a friendly clubhouse to enjoy, with delicious pizza and fresh coffee on offer. 

Puttshack

Located in Westfield shopping centre, this might be the craziest golf experience you ever have. Known as the world’s first high-tech mini golf experience, Puttshack uses technology to enhance a player's crazy golf adventure. Not only that, but afterwards why not enjoy one of the delicious cocktails or sample some of the food at the island bar?

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London’s Best Green Spaces

London is the capital city of England which means many tourists who have never been before assume it’s going to be like every other capital city: a concrete jungle. Whilst Canary Wharf is home to a multitude of high-flying skyscrapers, London itself is relatively tame in terms of high-rise buildings. 

In fact, it has more green space and wildlife habitats than most capital cities, making it a great option for those who want to mix the hubbub of the city with the tranquillity of the countryside. 

If you’re unfamiliar with the green spaces that can be found in London, here are some of the best that you absolutely need to visit, especially if you’re staying in one of the hotels near Bayswater, London (a prime green space spot)! 

Regent’s Park 

Most of the green areas and parks in London are royal parks, and Regent’s Park is one of them. It’s located in the centre of the city, but it couldn’t be further away from the city smoke. Spanning over 410 acres, this vast expanse has lots to offer, including ZSL London Zoo – a great option if you have children. 

Regent’s Park also hosts an open air theatre in summer, as well as sports courts (e.g. tennis), a bandstand, the infamous rose garden, and the opportunity to row a boat through the lake. On top of this, Primrose Hill is connected to Regent’s Park and is a popular choice for people looking for some peace and quiet in the city. 

Due to its central location, Regent’s Park is easily accessible to everyone in London, including those staying in hotels near Hyde Park, London. 

Greenwich Park 

If you’re a science buff and love all things astrology related, head to Greenwich Park, another of London’s royal parks. Not only is it a World Heritage Site, but it’s also home to the Prime Meridian and the Royal Observatory – a top London attraction that should be on every tourist’s agenda. 

Though it’s located further out in Greenwich, the park itself is still highly accessible from accommodation near Hyde Park, London. 

Hyde Park 

Yet another royal park, Hyde Park is of special note due to the fact it’s the biggest park in central London. Not just this, but Hyde Park is where you’ll find lots of special events are hosted throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, gigs, and Winter Wonderland near Christmas time. 

Historically, Hyde Park was a place where people would go to rally or protest, and this continues today, with many people pitching up at Speakers’ Corner to air their views. If public speaking isn’t your thing, consider going open water swimming, horse riding, cycling, or playing a game of tennis in the park before grabbing a bite to eat at one of the restaurants near Hyde Park. 

Summary 

These are just three of the green spaces in London, but don’t forget to check out Richmond, Battersea Park, Green Park, Kew Gardens, and Kensington Palace Gardens if you have time during your visit.

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How to Cycle in London

London is one of the most connected cities in the world, with a leading underground rail network, national and international overground train stations, multiple airports that fly planes to every corner of the country, one of the busiest bus networks in Europe, and the iconic black taxi cabs. There are so many ways to get around the big city, but sometimes, it’s nice to get active and cycle. 

With such a complex road infrastructure and thousands of vehicles, you might be thinking it would be easier to hop on public transport from your hotel near Hyde Park than to cycle around town, but this isn’t necessarily true. 

The city has invested lots of money into encouraging people to get on bikes in a bid to get fitter and be more eco-friendly, and this extends to London visitors, too. If you’re visiting London and want to learn more about how you can see the city by bike, keep reading.   

Hiring a Bicycle 

First of all, you’ll need a bike. The Santander Cycle scheme allows people to hire bikes cheaply from almost anywhere in London. Whether you’re staying at a hotel in Elephant and Castle or the Park Avenue J Hotel London Hyde Park, there’s guaranteed to be a cycle docking station near you, but you can check online to find your nearest one. 

When you’ve found a station, simply follow the instructions on the screen to hire a bike! When you’re done, all you need to do is return the cycle to any station. Easy! 

Safety Tips

 Once you’ve hired a bike, it’s important to beware of safety rules so you can safely cycle around London and make it back to your room at one of the Hyde Park hotels in London in one piece. 

Stop at red traffic lights

 Firstly, you need to follow traffic signals as if you were in a car. London is a complex city with many crossroads and one-way systems, so you must remember to stop at red traffic lights. 

Don’t cycle on the path 

You should always cycle on the road or a dedicated cycle path. This will allow for a smoother journey and ensure the safety of yourself and pedestrians alike. Most London streets have cycle lanes for added safety. 

Make eye contact with drivers 

It’s recommended that you make eye contact with drivers where possible, especially before manoeuvring or turning. If you make eye contact, it’s safe to assume they’ve seen you and are aware of you. This may mean looking over your shoulder as you ride. 

Signal clearly 

The final safety tip is to signal clearly using your arms if you intend to turn left or right. This will let drivers know where you intend to go and allow them to make provisions for you. 

Cycle safely around London 

Cycling in London can seem scary, so it’s best to start with well established, short routes close to your accommodation at Park Avenue Hyde Park if you’re unsure. Overall, cycling in London is a great way to see the city and can help to save you money on your trip, too!

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Getting To Know Medieval London

Another stalwart of the Medieval London scene, All-Hallows-By-The-Tower is a church with hundreds of years of history, potentially dating back to 675 AD. The church was notorious in the medieval era for being the burial grounds for many of the executed prisoners in the nearby Tower of London. The church has a very spooky crypt within which you can find the crows nest from Ernest Shackleton’s final voyage ship - the Quest. Other interesting notes about All-Hallows include the fact that Samuel Pepys the diarist watched from its spire as the great fire of London ravaged the city. A dramatic and historic church then.

London’s history dates back to 50 AD, not the oldest in Europe by a long shot, but certainly oen of the most interesting and tumultuous. Over the years, London has battled many events and tragedies and continuously rebuilt itself in the wake. From the Georgian townhouses of the Park Avenue J Hotel to the looming gothic spires of the city’s Westminster era, the collage of styles just goes to show how much history the Great British capital’s amassed.

This blog will explore some of the best places to visit for those who want to learn about the Medieval period of London, specifically between 1066 and the late 15th century. From awe-inspiring relics to interactive exhibits, these Medieval tourist attractions are open for guests at Central London hotel rooms to visit and expand their knowledge to encyclopedic levels. 

The Tower Of London

Dating back to 1066, the Tower of London was built in the wake of the Norman invasion of 1066, an event the harked the beginning of the Medieval era. The tower itself has changed its identity many times over the years. It was once a menagerie built by King Henry III in 1235, and then became a prison that most notably was the murder site for a young King Edward V and his brother Richard of Shrewsbury in the 1480s and the Kray Twins prison in the 1950s’. 

Guests at Park Avenue Hyde Park can learn more about the tower’s tumultuous history between 9 am and 4.30 am on Tuesdays to Sundays.

Temple Church

The Temple Church is recognisable from its rounded walls and surrounding gardens. The buildings around it are now home to what are arguably the “knights” of the modern-day - lawyers, but back in the 12th century they were the home of the Knights of Templar, a religious organisation shrouded in mystery. What is known about the Knights of Templar is that they were part of the Crusades of the Middle East and travelled to Jerusalem in the year 1119. Now owned by the Crown, the area still retains its sense of mystery and authority.

The London Stone

Thought to be a central city marker dating back to the Roman era, little else is known about the London Stone except that it was first mentioned by King Athelstan in the 10th century. Guests of Park Hotel restaurants and accommodation can now see the stone behind an iron grill on Cannon Street where it still emits an aura of mystery.

The Clink Prison Museum

To learn more about the grisly side of Medieval London, the Clink Prison Museum offers up all shades of nasty. Located near London Bridge, the Clink Prison Museum showcases one of the most notorious prisons in the UK. originally run by the Bishop of Winchester as part of his land, the prison and was established in 1144. Needless to say, this museum is not for the faint of heart and houses examples of torture machines, squalid cell conditions and more within its walls near London Bridge. 

All-Hallows-By-The-Tower

Another stalwart of the Medieval London scene, All-Hallows-By-The-Tower is a church with hundreds of years of history, potentially dating back to 675 AD. The church was notorious in the medieval era for being the burial grounds for many of the executed prisoners in the nearby Tower of London. The church has a very spooky crypt within which you can find the crows nest from Ernest Shackleton’s final voyage ship - the Quest. Other interesting notes about All-Hallows include the fact that Samuel Pepys the diarist watched from its spire as the great fire of London ravaged the city. A dramatic and historic church then.

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London’s Historic Cinemas

As some visitors at Park Avenue Hyde Park may be aware, the London Film Festival finished its annual tenure in the city for 2021. Hosting new work from international auteurs and up and coming filmmakers, the London Film Festival is one of the most influential and reputed in Europe, often seeing red carpet appearances from some of the best-known celebrities in the world. 

Whilst the film festival has closed for this year, the cinemas that hosted this exciting festival are a massive part of the experience. From West End gems to cutting edge gateways into new districts, taking a trip to one of the many historic cinemas in London is an enriching way for Park Avenue J Hotel London Hyde Park guests to get to know the city. Below you can find out more about the revolutionary, historic and all-around magnetising cinemas in the English capital, and the types of events that take place there.

Regent Street Cinema

The Regent Street Cinema is one of the most famous in London and was opened in 1848 as a theatre for what is now the University of Westminster. Often cited as the “birthplace of British Cinema” the projection capabilities of the 187-seater on Regent Street allows it to screen 16 and 35 mm film reels as well as 4K digital formats. This means that cinephile guests at hotel accommodation London can expect a varied programme of often never before seen movies.  Another historic accolade held by the Regent Street Cinema is that it was the first in the UK to show X-rated films, although now it is rather more family-friendly!

Prince Charles Cinema

A firm favourite for cult films, the Prince Charles Cinema is the home to some of London’s best movie marathons and is easily reachable for guests at the Park Avenue J Hotel London. From Lord Of The Rings all-nighters to late-night Halloween specials, Prince Charles was built in 1962 as a theatre but was developed into a  cinema for adult movies before its expansion into a fan-favourite repertory cinema. The Prince Charles Cinema, which is located just off of Leicester Square, is famous for hosting regular Q & A’s and for its seasonal Rocky Horror Picture Show and Sound of Music singalong screenings, making it the proud last independent cinema standing in the West End.

Brixton Ritzy

Not only is the Brixton Ritzy a social hub and community-oriented south London cinema but is a Grade II listed building too. With its music and spoken word staging second-floor cafe bar, the Brixton Ritzy has been establishing itself as a cinema for the people since it was opened in 1911 as the “Electric Pavilion”. With a long history of name changes and left-wing political advocacy, the Ritzy is accessible for all and wears its historic London reputation proudly.

Rio Dalston

The Rio in Dalston is a two-screen cinema on Kingsland High Street that has been open since 1915. Originally an auctioneers shop, the cinema was redeveloped in the art deco style seen today in 1933 and was refurbished once again in the 1950s’ after suffering damage during the Blitz. Its history as a foreign language and adult film cinema during the 70s’ saw it grow into a much loved independent movie hub in later decades. Now the Rio is registered as a not for profit charity, in keeping with its long history and stellar international programming.