Things to do Near Regents Park, London

Published: December 16, 2024
Things to do Near Regents Park London

If you love yourself a green space, you'll love Regent's Park. Nestled in the heart of London, it's a serene oasis brimming with things to see, do, and a healthy dose of verdant wonder to wander. But you know London; it's not just the place itself that's important, but what you find around that place that makes it extra special. Thankfully, Regent's Park is no different.

London's a city brimming with fun and unique experiences, so let's take a closer look at things to do near Regent's Park in London. Prepare to discover:

  • ZSL London Zoo
  • Madame Tussauds
  • Camden Market
  • Regent's Park Open Air Theatre
  • Lord's Cricket Ground Tour

ZSL London Zoo

Things to do Near Regents Park London

And guess what? To see one of London's most popular attractions, you won't even have to leave Regent's Park! That's right - ZSL London Zoo is here, found right in the heart of Regent's Park (well, in its northern corner, but you get the idea), and it's a world full of fauna fun for people of all ages to enjoy.

At nearly 200 years old, ZSL London Zoo is the oldest scientific zoo on the planet, and thankfully, it's very dedicated to conservation and education, so there's plenty to learn for inquisitive minds. Every day, there are numerous talks and showcases that let average Joes learn more about the work the zoo and its partners do to help preserve animals and their habitats.

But enough back-patting, what about the animals? Well, there are a tonne of wonderful, exotic creatures you can meet face-to-face, including big cats, smaller penguins, and a family of giraffes. Nearly everyone will find their favourite critters somewhere within the zoo's extensive complex.

So why not head there and see what all the fuss is about?

Madame Tussauds

Things to do Near Regents Park London

A stone's throw from Regent's Park is the world-famous Madame Tussauds, where you can rub shoulders with lifelike wax figures of your favourite celebrities, historical icons, and fictional characters. And hey, since the chances of you getting up and close with any of them are slim to none, this is the next best thing!

Ever dreamed of snapping a selfie with Beyoncé? Madame Tussauds has got you. Have you ever wanted to talk Einstein's ear off about the mysteries of the universe or his feelings on the Kardashians? You can certainly do that here, though it'll be a somewhat one-sided conversation.

Then there's the Marvel and Star Wars sections, which are some of the most popular areas in recent years. It's hardly surprising given the surging popularity of Disney's tentpole franchises, but nevertheless, you can get snaps with your favourite characters without needing to catch a spaceship flight to the past.

Park Life

Things to do Near Regents Park London

Of course, no visit to Regent's Park would be complete without taking time to appreciate the park itself. Spanning 395 acres, it's one of London's largest green spaces and a great place to escape the city's concrete jungle and soak up some sweet o2. 

Wander through Queen Mary's Gardens, where over 12,000 roses spiral out in a kaleidoscope of colours and fragrances. Take a stroll to the Triton and Dryads Fountain - a stunning centerpiece that feels plucked from a painting. 

For breathtaking views of the city, make your way up to nearby Primrose Hill, and pack a picnic if you want to make the most of it!

If you're in the mood to explore further afield, Hyde Park and St. James's Park are a bit further afield but are easily accessible and offer their own unique charms. 
So, in the spirit of a blog dedicated to verdant spaces, make the most of the greenery!

Regent's Park Open Air Theatre

Things to do Near Regents Park London

Enough about flora and fauna! How about some theatre? Funnily enough, Regent's Park's got you covered thanks to the park's open-air theatre! If the weather's good and you fancy some fantastic live performance, why not give it a go?

Every year, they offer an impressive lineup of both plays, musicals, and live music throughout the warmer months. Given England's patchy weather, it shuts during the colder/wetter months, so just make sure you time your visit appropriately! If you do, you'll experience one of the most unique performance spaces in the city.

Whether you're looking for Shakespearean classics in an outdoor setting, or just want to go and see some live music on your Regent's Park visit, there's something for everyone!

Camden Market

Things to do Near Regents Park London

If you fancy a spot of shopping, you can head down to Camden Market and pick up anything you can possibly dream of for a bargain price. Happy days!

Camden Market is a sprawling hodgepodge of market stalls, some fronted by individuals selling weird and wonderful bits and pieces, as well as branded stores selling unique items from across the globe. Stalls and shops line the road, and then you can venture beneath the railroad bridge that splits the district and find hundreds of indoor stalls and shops. It feels almost never-ending, and it's understandably busy all day, every day.

Pick up a spot of street food, tour the labyrinthine layout, and pick up some sweet bargains to take home with you.

Lord's Cricket Ground Tour

Things to do Near Regents Park London

And finally, for sports fans or those with a particular interest in cricket, why not go take a tour of the historic Lord's Cricket Ground? Known as the "Home of Cricket," Lord's has been the backdrop for some of the best matches in history, so there is plenty to see and do for cricket aficionados.

The tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at this iconic ground, from the Long Room and Players' Dressing Rooms to the hallowed turf itself. Even if you're not a die-hard cricket fan, the architecture and stories of Lord's are enough to make the visit worthwhile. The on-site museum, which includes the famous Ashes urn, provides a fascinating insight into the ground's storied past.

Lord's is a short walk from Regent's Park, so if you have even a passing interest in the ground or the sport itself, it's definitely worth a look!

And those are our picks of the best things to do near Regent's Park! Of course, Regent's Park is near just some of the many London attractions that visitors can enjoy. So, why not grab a London Pass and make the most of it? You'll get access to all of the city's best bits for one low price! Go on - you know it makes sense.

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The Shard Vs Sky Garden - Which Is Better? | The London Pass®

by Mia Russell Battle of the Views: The Shard vs. Sky Garden - Which is the Best? London is a city that never fails to amaze, and what better way to take in its spectacular sights than from high above? And, while there are plenty of amazing London attractions to choose from, when it comes to breathtaking views of the city, two iconic landmarks immediately come to mind: The Shard and Sky Garden. Both offer unforgettable experiences, but which one is worth your time and money? Let us take a closer look at both buildings and help you decide which one is the best fit for your next London adventure. Get ready to soar high and see London in a whole new light!   The Shard This towering skyscraper boasts the title of the tallest building in the United Kingdom, standing at95 stories tall, and is an iconic feature of the London skyline! The views from The Shard are nothing short of incredible - you will see some of the most iconic landmarks in London, such as the Tower Bridge, the River Thames, and St. Paul's Cathedral. From the observation decks on the 68th, 69th, and 72nd floors, you can see all the way to the horizon on a sunny day. The views The Shard boasts several different viewing platforms, each with a unique perspective of London. The Skydeck on the 72nd floor provides panoramic views of the city and lets you feel the wind in your hair as you take in the sights. The elegant champagne bar on the 68th floor is a fantastic spot to sip a glass of bubbly and drink in the views!   Dining The Shard in London is not just a place to enjoy breathtaking views; it's also a hub for delicious dining experiences. From high-end restaurants to casual cafés, there is something for every taste at this iconic landmark. Look no further than Aqua Shard if you are in the mood for an unforgettable fine dining experience. Located on the 31st floor, this restaurant serves modern British cuisine with the freshest and finest ingredients. The menu is as breathtaking as the view, with dishes like seared Orkney scallops and salt marsh lamb loin. Their extensive bar menu of cocktails will not disappoint either. For something more casual, head to the 32nd floor and grab a bite at Oblix. This modern European restaurant boasts a lively atmosphere and serves dishes like grilled octopus, roast Cornish brill, and wagyu beef burgers. It's the perfect spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a romantic evening out. You have two great options if you're looking for a quick bite or a cup of coffee. The Sky Coffee on the 68th floor is perfect for a mid-morning pick-me-up, while the L'A mina del Gusto on the ground floor serves Italian pastries, sandwiches, and gelato.   Attractions For a totally unique and thrilling experience, head to The Slide on the 72nd floor. This 40-second ride down the building's exterior is not for the faint of heart, but it is sure to get your adrenaline pumping and provide you with a once-in-a-lifetime memory. The Shard can be a bit on the pricey side. Tickets to the observation decks can be expensive, especially during peak tourist season, and the champagne bar is on the higher end of the price scale.   Sky Garden Located in the heart of the city, Sky Garden is a beautiful public space that offers 360-degree views of the city's skyline. Also known as the Walkie Talkie building, Sky Garden has a spectacular curved glass façade, which gives it a distinctive look. The Sky Garden is located on the top three floors of the building, and its floor-to-ceiling windows provide panoramic views of the city. The Sky Garden is divided into three levels. The first level is the main entrance, and the second level is the Observation Deck, which offers a 360-degree view of the city. The third level is the Sky Garden itself, which is a beautifully manicured space with an indoor garden.   The views As you might expect, the views from Sky Garden are breathtaking. From the Observation Deck, you'll see some of London's most iconic landmarks, including the Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Thames River. Dining If you're feeling peckish, several dining options are available at Sky Garden. From casual cafés to upscale restaurants, there's something for every taste and budget. Located on the 36th floor, Darwin Brasserie is the main restaurant at Sky Garden and offers contemporary British cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu features a range of dishes, including seafood, meat, and vegetarian options, all prepared to the highest standard, emphasizing sustainability. For a more upscale dining experience, head to Fenchurch Restaurant. Located on the 37th floor, this fine-dining establishment offers stunning views of the city alongside a delicious modern European menu. Expect sublime dishes like roasted scallops, duck breast, and poached rhubarb. If you're looking for a more casual dining experience, Sky Pod Bar on the 35th floor is the perfect spot. Boasting a relaxed atmosphere and a broad selection of drinks and snacks, it's the ideal place to unwind and take in the spectacular views of London. Located on the 36th floor, City Garden Bar offers handcrafted cocktails, fine wines, craft beers, and bar bites. The outdoor terrace is a trendy spot in the summer, with its relaxed seating and gorgeous views.   Attractions Sky Garden isn't just about the view - there's plenty to see and do inside as well. Take a stroll through the exquisitely landscaped gardens and admire the carefully curated tropical greenery and blooming flora. You'll feel like you've been transported to a lush oasis in the heart of the city. You can also enjoy live music performances throughout the week, making it a great place to take in some entertainment while taking in the views. From jazz to acoustic, there's something for every music lover. One of the remarkable things about Sky Garden is that it's completely free to visit, which makes it a popular spot with locals and tourists alike. The atmosphere inside Sky Garden is more relaxed and laid-back than at The Shard, which some visitors might appreciate.   Final thoughts The Shard and Sky Garden offer incredible views of London and are worth a visit. If you're looking for a high-end, luxurious experience, The Shard might be more up your street . On the other hand, if you're after a more relaxed, budget-friendly option, Sky Garden could be just what you're looking for. Ultimately, the choice is up to you! And if you've got time, why not pick up London sightseeing pass and see both, as well as other top London attractions?  
Go City Expert
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Discover These Top Facts about Christopher Wren

Discover more about one of Britain's greatest architects with these top facts about Christopher Wren! Wren could have had a very different life as an astronomist Christopher Wren was a passionate scientist with a big penchant for astronomy, which he excelled at. He translated seminal astronomical works into Latin and was well-versed in the subject, becoming a professor of astronomy at Oxford. However as the years went by, he was wrangled into a project in 1662 helping design the Sheldonian Theatre in Oxford and never looked back since. The Great Fire of London actually opened doors for Wren His gravestone is laid to rest in one of his own creations Wren is perhaps best known for his work designing St Paul's Cathedral, which is also where he was buried after his death in 1723. His gravestone is transcribed with the Latin text, 'If you seek his memorial, look about you.' His designs for St Paul's Cathedral were initially rejected St Paul's Cathedral is Wren's most notable masterpiece, however initial drafts of the structure were actually rejected by Parliament. This happened a couple of times and you can actually still see early drafts of the building online, which retain his dramatic Baroque sensibility. Third time was the charm for Wren and the work finally got started, though it took a little while. Learn more about this iconic London landmark with our Top 10 Facts about St. Paul's Cathedral! It took over 30 years for St Paul's Cathedral to be fully built London isn't the only city filled with Wren masterpieces The project that kickstarted Wren's career was a theatre out in Oxford and although a bulk of his work is located in London, there's a few more scattered around the country. From Cambridge to Oxford to London, he got around quite a bit which made sense given that he was a royal architect. He has a piece of Mercury named after him Astronomists have had the fun task of naming Mercury's various craters and they've introduced a little rule - all new craters should be named for accomplished creatives with over 50 years of experience and who have been dead for over 3 years. Wren ticked all the boxes, meaning he now has a crater on Mercury.
Vanessa Teo
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ArcelorMittal Orbit London: FAQs

What is the ArcelorMittal Orbit, London? How long is the tunnel and how long does the ride last? The tunnel is 178 metres long and it takes you on a 40 second journey of loops and corkscrews, all the way to the bottom. What can I see from the ArcelorMittal Orbit viewing platforms? You can enjoy 20-mile views from the viewing platforms, including many highlights of London’s skyline, such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, Alexandra Palace, the O2 and Big Ben. You can also see the stadiums built around the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park for the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics, including Zaha Hadid’s London Aquatics Centre and Hopkins Architects’ Lee Valley VeloPark. Where is it? How do I get there? You can get the Central Line, the Overground and National Rail services to Stratford. You can get to Stratford in just 11 minutes from the City of London. It’s a 10 minute walk to the attraction from Stratford Station. Buses stopping nearby include the D8 and the 339. Are the viewing platforms accessible for people with disabilities? Yes, there’s a lift to take you up and down. How much does it cost? Usually, it’s £12.50, but with the London Pass, access to the viewing platforms is free. You have to pay £5 extra to upgrade your ticket to include the slide down. Upgrades are subject to availability on the day. What are the opening times? Monday to Friday, it’s open from 11am until 4pm. On weekends, it’s 10am - 6pm. Is it open every day of the week? Yes, 364 days a year. What day aren’t they open? Christmas Day. No sliding on Christmas? No sliding on Christmas. Do I have to slide down? Nope. You can walk down the 455-step spiral staircase or take the lift. Can I buy a ticket just for the slide? Nope. You need to go up to come down. What are the age restrictions on the slide? You have to be at least 8 years old and over 1.3m tall to ride the slide. Can I ride the slide more than once? You can, but you have to buy another ticket for a second go. And what about, you know...friction? You head down the slide with your legs and bottom in a sack, much like one used to transport coffee beans. Where can I leave my stuff? I don’t want my phone/wallet/keys falling out of pockets. Can I buy any kind of mementos when I’m there? Yes, there’s a small shop selling T-shirts, tea towels, mugs and the like. What about eating and drinking? There’s a cafe called The Last Drop located right next to the ArcelorMittal Orbit. What is it made of? The ArcelorMittal Orbit is made of steel. Enough steel, in fact, to make 265 double-decker buses. Who designed it? Turner Prize-winning artist Anish Kapoor and engineer Cecil Balmond. Kapoor’s other famous works have included Chicago’s Cloud Gate and the Sky Mirror in Nottingham. Balmond has worked on the Centre Pompidou-Metz in Paris, and the CCTV Headquarters in Beijing. What is it supposed to look like? It was designed to look like an ‘impossible’ structure, something almost ‘mythical’ in its twisted, looping form. It’s inspired by the Tower of Babel and the Eiffel Tower. Maybe it looks a bit like someone's made a helter skelter out of the Eiffel Tower. Or angrily scrunched up a train track. It is thought to contain the five Olympic rings. Some people think it looks like a massive shisha pipe. Who knows. See where else you can get a great view of London here.
Matthew Pearson
The London Eye
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