The Serpentine in Hyde Park on an Orange Brompton

I cycle through Hyde Park quite often and if I am early when meeting for one of the Sunday rides, I will often cycle around it at least once. I usually stop at the little bridge you can see below in the photo that affords a good view. 

The Serpentine in Hyde Park - where the ducks are the true aristocrats and the swans are practically demanding bow ties - sits inside possibly my favourite London park. This body of water isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a historical gem that has been glittering away since the 18th century. 

Back then, the park had a rather stuffy reputation, mainly because it was a favourite haunt of the royal family. The Serpentine was conceived under the auspices of Queen Caroline, wife of George II, who decided the pristine park needed a water feature in the form of a single lake. 

Originally, the Serpentine wasn't exactly a serpentine affair. It was just a narrow, rather boring stream until Royal Gardener, Charles Bridgeman was instructed to jazz it up a bit. Voila! The stream was transformed into a lake, featuring glorious curves resembling a snake that ate too many pies - hence the name. Naturally, no royal waterway would be complete without a few statues and monuments to look at.

Interestingly enough, this watery playground has seen its fair share of historical shenanigans. In 1816 the lake was very much in the news when the wife of poet Percy Bysshe Shelley (Harriet) drowned there, having previously left a suicide note. He married again less than two weeks later! There are many that have their suspicions as to whether it really was suicide...

In 1851, the Serpentine hosted the Great Exhibition, where people could marvel at wonders from around the world without leaving their posh little corner of London. One can only imagine the fuss when someone accidentally dropped a teacup in the lake, sending ripples through the ranks of Victorian society

Fast forward to today, and the Serpentine has evolved into a rather eclectic destination. You’ll find paddle boaters trying their best to look casual while steering in circles, people picnicking on the shores, people on roller skates around its edge  and countless joggers trying not to wheeze while dodging squirrels. There are even occasions where people hurl themselves into the icy depths and swim its length. Last of all, let’s not forget it’s a haven for influencers! There is a solar powered boat (Solarshuttle) that you can take for a little jaunt. I think it closes in winter but well worth a go if it is still in operation. 

So, if you are in London and visit Hyde Park, have a walk along the Serpentine and take the odd photo. If you have a Brompton, do the same!

Until next time, stay safe out there people!