St James's Park is a 23-hectare (57-acre) royal park in the heart of Westminster and the oldest of London's Royal Parks. Ringed by Buckingham Palace, The Mall, Horse Guards and Birdcage Walk, it has long framed royal ceremony, and in 1826-27 architect John Nash reshaped it into today's curving lake and winding paths. It is best known for its pelican colony, resident since a Russian ambassador gave them to Charles II in 1664 - and in 2026 pelican chicks hatched in the park for the first time in its history. Free to enter and steps from Buckingham Palace, it is an ideal green pause to pair with the Changing of the Guard.
The Blue Bridge, offering a classic view west to Buckingham Palace and east to Horse Guards, the London Eye and Whitehall - the park's signature photo spot
The pelican colony dating from 1664; wildlife officers usually feed them around 2:30pm, and the chicks born in 2026 can now be seen (feeding times may vary)
The lake with West Island and Duck Island, home to swans, ducks and many other waterfowl
Seasonal flowerbeds, mature shade trees and summer deckchairs available to hire
Direct links to neighbouring royal sights - Buckingham Palace (Changing of the Guard), Horse Guards Parade and The Mall
Good to know
SafetyWatch for pickpockets in crowded spots around Buckingham Palace, The Mall and the tube stations. Wear bags to the front and keep phones and wallets out of back pockets.
CautionAround Westminster and The Mall, avoid three-cup shell-game gambling, fake charity clipboards and 'found gold ring' scams. Don't engage - just keep walking.
SeasonJuly is a dry summer month, so parts of the park may close under wildfire-prevention measures, while UK weather can turn to rain quickly. Bring water, a light layer and a compact umbrella, and check the official weather notices before visiting.
RulesDo not feed the pelicans or waterfowl yourself (official feeding is around 2:30pm), stay off the flowerbeds, and note that deckchairs are a paid hire, not free.
MannersThe Changing of the Guard draws large crowds; arrive 30-45 minutes early, follow the barriers and stewards, and keep the ceremonial routes clear.
RulesFor London transport, tap a contactless card or Oyster when you travel; buses do not accept cash, so have a payment method ready.
Practical info
St James's Park station (District and Circle lines) is the closest Underground stop, with Westminster, Victoria and Green Park also within walking distance. The pedestrian gates are open year-round from 5am to midnight and entry is free, but confirm current opening times, events and pelican feeding times on the official Royal Parks website.
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