St James's Park at a glance
St James's Park covers about 23 hectares and is the oldest of London's Royal Parks. It sits beside the palace, with a long lake in the middle, wide lawns and flower beds. Many visitors cross it on the way to or from the palace gates, and it works well as a quiet stop before or after a State Rooms visit or the guard ceremony.
This is an independent guide, not run by the park authority or the palace. It explains what the park offers, which rules apply and how the park connects with The Mall, the Victoria Memorial and Green Park. Park hours and events can change, so check the current notice at the gate on the day.
What to see in the park
The lake, the birds and the paths around them.
The lake
The lake is the center of the park, and a path runs around it. Swimming in the lake is not allowed.
The pelicans
Pelicans have lived in the park since 1664, when the Russian ambassador gave the first birds as a gift. Park staff feed them at about 14:30 as a rule, and extra feedings can happen when there are young birds. A feeding is routine care for the animals, not a show with a fixed end time.
Squirrels and water birds
Grey squirrels and many water birds share the park. Keep your distance from young birds, give them space and keep dogs on a lead on the path around the lake.
Palace and London tours
Guided walks, palace visits and sightseeing trips around the palace, with live prices and availability.
The Mall
The ceremonial avenue to the palace.
The Mall is the broad avenue between Buckingham Palace and the Admiralty Arch side near Trafalgar Square. It runs along the northern edge of the park and ends at the Victoria Memorial in front of the palace gates. On Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays The Mall and Constitution Hill are closed to traffic, which makes the walk calmer.
The Mall also serves as the route for state occasions and parades. A closed road does not mean free access on those days, because police can restrict areas at short notice. Allow extra time and follow the instructions on site.
The Victoria Memorial
The monument in front of the gates.
The Victoria Memorial stands in front of the palace and is 25 meters high. It is built from about 2,300 tonnes of white Carrara marble. The central sculpture is by Thomas Brock, and Aston Webb designed the whole setting. George V unveiled it in 1911.
The steps give a wider view of the forecourt and are a common place to wait during the guard ceremony. For the ceremony itself, other spots work as well, and none guarantees a clear view. Read the full guide on the Changing of the Guard page.
Green Park, Constitution Hill and Birdcage Walk
Three other green edges around the palace.
| Place | Where | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Green Park | Between the palace and Piccadilly | A quieter walk and the link to Green Park Tube |
| Constitution Hill | Beside the palace gardens | A path beside the palace gardens |
| Birdcage Walk | On the south side of the park, with the Wellington Barracks | The guard assembling and marching off |
| Spur Road | Close to the palace | Watching the march, with a limited view of the forecourt |
Some pedestrian gates of Green Park also open from 05:00 to 24:00. Walking into these parks needs no ticket or booking. Events, tours and facilities on site can have their own terms.
Plan your visit
Pages that fit a walk in the park.
Changing of the Guard
Days, times, weather cancellations and the best places to stand.
How to get to the palace
Tube stations, buses, entrances and walking times.
Best time to visit
Summer opening, guard days and climate by month.
If you plan to see Westminster as well, the area around the clock tower has its own guide: things to do in Westminster.
St James's Park: frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of St James's Park?
Some pedestrian and vehicle gates open at 05:00 and close at 24:00. Not every gate follows the same hours, so check the sign at the gate you use.
When are the pelicans fed?
Park staff usually feed them at about 14:30. When young birds are around, extra feedings can take place. The time is not fixed to the minute, so arrive a little early.
Can I swim in the lake?
No. Public swimming is not allowed in the lake of St James's Park. The lido people mention for swimming lies in Hyde Park, not here.
Can I park a car at the park?
The park has no visitor car park. See the getting there page for Tube, bus and road information.
Where is the best place to watch the guard?
The palace fence gives a view into the forecourt, and the Victoria Memorial gives a wider overview. Wellington Barracks on Birdcage Walk is good for the assembly and march. No spot guarantees a clear view.
Is this the official site of the Royal Parks or the palace?
No. This is an independent travel guide with no link to the park authority, the Royal Collection Trust or the Royal Household.