Where: London SW1

What: Kensington Gardens covers 111 hectares (275 acres). It was originally part of Hyde Park, but was bought by William III in 1689. As an asthma sufferer, the king found the location quiet and the air comforting and so he commissioned Sir Christopher Wren to design the redbrick building that is now Kensington Palace.

Queen Anne enlarged the palace gardens by 'transferring' 30 acres from Hyde Park and was responsible for the creation of the Orangery in 1704. The park is now open to the public and the peace of the gardens is a sharp contrast to the openness and activity of Hyde Park, a short walk away.

In this woodland park children gather at the Round Pond to sail their boats or around the statue of Peter Pan. The Diana, Princess of Wales' Memorial Playground is located within the grounds too. It is a fantastic adventure playground for kids up to the age of 12.

The Gardens are particularly popular for sunbathing and picnics in fine weather. It is also popular as a healthy walking route to work for commuters. The paths are used extensively by joggers and runners. Cycling is allowed on the designated path linking the Queen's Gate to West Carriage Drive, Mount Gate to the Broadwalk and the broadwalk itself from Black Lion Gate to Palace Gate.

The playing of games in the gardens is discouraged in view of the importance of the historic landscape and the desire to maintain their primary role as a peaceful refuge for people living, working or visiting Central London.

Nearest underground station: High Street Kensington, Lancaster Gate or Queensway

Website: royalparks.gov.uk