What makes it 86% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 get a fenced playground, pelican feeding and picnic lawns; child-height toilets help, yet no rides and dense crowds may shorten attention after an hour or two.
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to watch the pelicans, play at the playground, picnic and stroll without tiring younger children.
Daily pelican feeding:
Watch keepers feed the pelicans at Duck Island Cottage around 2:30 pm every day.
Tip: Arrive at 2:15 pm to secure a close spot for kids to see.
Children’s playground:
Swings, slides, rope bridges and a sandpit next to Horse Guards Road.
Tip: Bring socks for rope climbs and use the nearby child-height toilets (20 p each).
Blue Bridge photo spot:
Framed views of Buckingham Palace on one side and Horse Guards Parade on the other.
Tip: Visit at sunrise or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds.
Family picnic on the lawns:
Spread a blanket on the lakefront lawns with palace backdrops.
Tip: Use the low walls or benches by the lake for extra seating; avoid noon rush.
Deckchair hire:
Colorful deckchairs available by the lake from March to October.
Tip: Look for vendors early in summer; book a chair near the playground for supervision.

Abbi Adair
Great park with a variety of wildlife including squirrels, pelican, herons, and Egyptian geese to name a few. Can get very busy and you feel you’re often walking against the tide, but it’s worth it for the pelicans alone!
Juan Terra
St James’s Park is a peaceful oasis in the middle of London. Walking along the paths, watching the swans and ducks, and enjoying the greenery felt incredibly relaxing. The views of Buckingham Palace and the surrounding historic buildings add charm. A perfect spot to unwind and soak up the city.
SL Wong
Serene and beautiful park with so many different birds and even squirrels. A really nice place to chill and have your lunch, but beware, the animals there arent very scared of humans! The ducks may come and ask for a bite.
Chirléy Lima
St. James’s Park is absolutely beautiful! The views of Buckingham Palace and the lake are stunning. It’s such a peaceful place to walk, relax, and take pictures. We saw lots of ducks, swans, and even some friendly squirrels. There are plenty of benches and a little café for coffee or snacks. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy nature right in the heart of London.
Simon Castle (iPhoneSimes)
The perfect park in Central London to appreciate the joy and splendour of autumnal colours at their finest. The Blue Bridge spanning St. James’s Park Lake, offers a stunning partial backdrop of The London Eye, Whitehall and the City’s Towers. On a clear blue sky Sunday afternoon in October, the lake was stunningly blue with a near perfect reflection 💯in places.
From March to October, hire deckchairs near the lake. In spring, enjoy the Mall’s blooming flower beds. Winter can be chilly—dress in layers and bring umbrellas.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Deckchair hire | GBP 9 |
| Ice cream and snacks | GBP 10 |
| Public toilet charges | GBP 1 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 20 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: London SW1A 2BJ, UK
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Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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