Where: The Mall, London SW1

What: St James's Park is London's oldest Royal Park. It is surrounded by three palaces - the Palace of Westminster (now the Houses of Parliament), St James's Palace and Buckingham Palace. The Park, once a marshy watermeadow, takes its name from a leper hospital founded there in the 13th century.

Like many of London's other parks, it was 'acquired' by Henry VIII in 1532 as yet another deer park. He built the Palace of St James's and when his daughter, Elizabeth I, came to the throne she indulged her love of pageantry and pomp, and fetes of all kinds were held in the park.

Her successor, James I, improved the drainage and controlled the water supply. A road was created in front of St James's Palace, approximately where the Mall is today, but it was Charles II who made dramatic changes. The Park was redesigned, with avenues of trees planted and lawns laid. The King opened the park to the public and was a frequent visitor, feeding the ducks and mingling with his subjects.

During the Hanoverian period, Horse Guards Parade was created by filling in one end of the long canal and was used first as a mustering ground and later for parades. Horse Guards Parade is still part of St James's Park, just across the road at the opposite end to buckingham palace.

The Park changed to its current style when John Nash redesigned it and gave it a more romantic style. The canal was transformed into a natural-looking lake and in 1837 the Ornithological Society of London presented some birds to the Park and erected a cottage for a bird keeper. Both the cottage and the position of bird keeper remain to this day.

The lake is home to many geese and ducks, and both locals and tourist flock here to feed the birds. A favorite for its smallish size, central location, and lovely landscaping, this park boasts perhaps the finest view of Buckingham Palace, from the bridge over the lake. A cafe provides welcome refreshment and there is a band stand which provides regular summer entertainment.

Nearest underground station: St. James's Park

Opening hours: The park is open from 5am until dusk all year round.

Website: royalparks.gov.uk