St. James Park is a popular and busy attraction in central London (Westminister), being one of the city's eight Royal Parks. The Park is immediately adjacent to Buckingham Palace and includes The Mall. It covers about 23 hectacres (57 acres) .
St. James Park is named after a leprosy hospital that was located here in the 13th century. The Park was originally established by Henry VIII in 1532 as a royal hunting area. Back then the land was a swampy forest with pastureland (and grazing cows), and it has obviously undergone substantial changes and upgrades over the centuries.
As with most parks there are lovely paths to stroll, shade trees to sit under on rare sunny days, and colorful flower beds. The park has a small restaurant if you get hungry or thirsty -- also very busy. It's a nice place but the experience of visiting this busy park is not exactly my cup of tea. I like to visits parks to get away from crowds, not to be part of one.
The park contains a small lake, St James Park Lake, with two islands. The lake is home to a variety of birds, the most famous being a group of pelicans whose ancestors have resided here for almost 400 years. The pelicans were a gift to King Charles II from the Russian ambassador. The pelicans are feed fish daily, but I've been told they also have an appetitie for pigeons, of which there are many around, especially at nearby Buckingham Palace. As I'm not a fan of pigeons, it's nice to know these pelicans are somewhat useful.
(Admirality Arch)
The Mall is a private side road which has witnessed numerous Royal processions including coronations, openings of Parliament and state visits. It also is used in changing of the guard ceremonies, Royal weddings and funerals.
The Park and Mall don't take long to explore, although there are some interesting statues and monuments here and there. Hyde Park is more to my liking and that's where I'd rather go for a stroll when I'm in London.
Finally a few more images of the memorials you'll find along the Mall.
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