Despite its speed of life and density of population, London never feels suffocating. As you can see from a brief glance at a London map, there is always room to breathe and green space to divert your eyes from the grey asphalt of the city.

Sandwiched between Knightsbridge and the Serpentine boating lake in Hyde Park, this playground is proof that you can always find a children’s corner in London, even just blocks away from the most exclusive shopping district in the city.

The playground is situated on your left as you walk through Serpentine Walk at the west side of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel or through Albert Gate, which is planked by the French and Kuwaiti Embassies.

Once done with the playground, stroll around the lake and to the Serpentine Bar & Kitchen for a quick cuppa and light bite overlooking the lake. For more proper dining, go to Bar Boulud at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel for the best burger in town or baked fish and chips (click here to read about it). For a more interesting option, go three blocks south to William Street where you will find Ishbilia, the best Lebanese restaurant in London. With tender whole roast baby chicken, lamb chops, and dishes such as ‘kallaj’ (pita bread with melted hallumi cheese) on the menu, it is a great alternative to the usual burger or pasta restaurants.

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