On a warm summer’s day I love to take my daughter to the Serpentine Lido in Hyde Park. We enter through the Marlborough Gate beside the Italian fountains and wander along the tranquil lake path, stopping occasionally to feed the swans and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Once inside the Lido, my daughter will happily spend hours in the paddling pool splashing about or climbing in the playground. There is a beautiful lawn where you can sit and enjoy the sun, complete with a shady spot for the babies. A lovely café serves up nice lunches, tea and coffee but I prefer to take my own picnic which we enjoy perched atop the chairs and table provided.

This lovely place seems to be little known to the public so is usually quiet during the week days. It’s so nice to know that even though we are in one of the busiest cities in the world, you can still find a quiet, beautiful space to enjoy the summer days.

TiYK Top Tip! The Serpentine Lido is open on the weekends throughout May (including May Day bank holiday!) and seven days a week from the beginning of June to mid September. A secure and safe venue, there is even a lifeguard to watchover the little ones.

Image courtesy of Garry Knight on Flickr