When it comes to parks and gardens, London has plenty of options for visitors and locals to enjoy. Getting out and enjoying a bit of fresh air and greenery can really help to lighten your mood and it’s a great way to escape from the busy city, even if just for a few minutes.
One of the most beautiful gardens in London can be found in Holland Park. The Kyoto Garden offers a unique, Japanese-style landscape that’s perfect for quiet reflection and relaxation.
If you’re thinking about visiting the Kyoto Garden in Holland Park, here are some things to know:
History of The Kyoto Garden
Holland Park is a 22-hectare park in west London, which is situated around the ruins of Holland House. The house, originally known as Cope Castle was once a great house that served as the home of diplomats and powerful families throughout its history. It was built in 1605, but was destroyed during the Blitz in 1940.
The grounds were bought by London County Council in 1952 and today they serve as a large park, which includes various gardens, an open-air theatre, a cafe, a restaurant and various sports facilities.
The Kyoto Garden was opened in 1991. It was a gift from the city of Kyoto to commemorate the long friendship between Japan and Great Britain. Today, the Kyoto Garden is a popular part of Holland Park – but it’s not the only Japanese garden in this green space. In July 2012, the Fukushima Memorial Garden was officially opened. It commemorates the gratitude of the Japanese people to the British people for their support following the natural disasters that struck in March 2011.
What’s there?
The garden is a traditional Japanese garden with tranquil tiered waterfalls and a serene pond full of beautiful koi carp. There are stone lanterns, Japanese maple trees and you might even spot a peacock or two wandering around, adding to the atmosphere.
Opening hours
Holland Park is open daily from 7:30 am. It closes 30 minutes before dusk.
Location
Holland Park is located in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and its address is Ilchester Pl, London W8 6LU. The Kyoto Garden is situated right in the middle of the park.
Getting there
Parking in the area around Holland Park is limited, so you might want to consider alternative options.
The closest Tube station to the Kyoto Garden is Holland Park, which is on the Central line. Other nearby Tube stations include are Kensington High Street on the Circle and District Lines and Notting Hill Gate on the Circle, District and Central lines.
You could also try cycling to the park – there’s a London Cycle Hire docking station near the park entrance on Holland Walk.
Nearby accommodation
If you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish place to stay near Holland Park, one option to consider is the Park Grand Kensington. This boutique accommodation in west London has been elegantly designed and offers all the modern amenities you’d expect to find in a London hotel.
The Park Grand Kensington is less than a mile from Holland Park, meaning you could travel to the Kyoto Garden with a lovely walk through exclusive neighbourhoods. Or you could hop aboard a tube train (Earl’s Court Station is only a two-minute walk from the front door) and be at the park entrance in a matter of minutes.
Other Local Attractions
Once you’ve finished exploring the Kyoto Gardens, as well as the rest of Holland Park, why not take some time to explore some of the other nearby attractions? Some options to consider include:
Kensington Palace:
This historic palace has been a royal residence since the 17th century. Today, it’s the official residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, as well as other members of the royal family. Visitors can explore some parts of the palace, including the Georgian state rooms and there’s a large section dedicated to the life of Queen Victoria.
Kensington Palace Gardens:
Also known as Billionaires Row, this is one of the world’s most expensive residential streets, and residents include Roman Abramovich, members of the Saudi royal family and Chinese businessman Wang Jianlin. There are also several embassies.
Kensington Gardens:
This large park to the west of Kensington Palace was once the palace grounds, but today it’s open to the public. It’s an expansive and beautiful park, with tree-lined paths, waterways, sculptures and other features. Highlights include the Diana Memorial Playground, the Albert Monument and the Italian Gardens.
The Royal Albert Hall:
Construction on this majestic concert hall was completed in 1871 and since it was opened by Queen Victoria, it has been the setting for performances by many of the world’s leading musical artists. Performances range from classical music, through to pop and rock and the hall has also been the venue for the Proms concerts each summer since 1941.
Special Tips
- You must take the time to stroll around the surrounding residential streets, it has some of the most expensive houses in London (some worth as much as £10 million!)
- Try to visit Holland Park, If you’re visiting during the spring months, in May when the cherry trees are in full bloom.
- If you’re attending an opera performance at the theatre, try to linger around once the show finishes as several of the singers may come out for photos.
- If you feel like taking a stroll around the area, Kensington Palace and Hyde Park are an 18-minute walk away, Notting Hill is less than a 17-minute walk away, and Royal Albert Hall is a 30-minute walk away.