Bushy Park

Bushy Park, London's second largest park (with an area of 1,099 acres), is situated in the south-west of the city in the Borough of Richmond upon Thames. Bushy Park is an area of outstanding beauty. The park has an historic past, for example, it was originally used in the 16th century by Henry VIII as a deer-hunting area. Also, General Eisenhower made the park the base for the Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Force (SHAEF) and it was from here that D-Day was planned.

The park is also home to many beautiful features. For example, the Longford River, a canal that was built on the orders of Charles I, runs through the park. It is also home to the spectacular Diana Fountain, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, and the tree-lined Chestnut Avenue. This mile long avenue was designed by Wren under the reigns of William III and Mary II. With the elegant chestnuts lining the avenue, the Diana fountain acting as a centre piece and the Banqueting Hall of Hampton Court Palace in the background, Chestnut Avenue is sublime. The park is also scattered with a series of ponds, which act as a home to many animals such as swans and a large variety of birds. There are also 320 deer that live in the park, which add further to the sense of sublime natural beauty for which the park is known.

Thus, Bushy Park is simply outstanding. It acts as a home to many beautiful and elegant creatures. Its location is perfect as it allows one to relax after visiting Hampton Court Palace. It is the ideal place for horse riding and cycling and is a great place to simply wander and relax. It is casual, with its open spaces and scattered trees and ponds, yet somewhat elegant and formal due to the ornate Chestnut Avenue and Diana Fountain.

Overall, simply amazing. The greatest park in London and undoubtedly a must see for anyone visiting the capital. Bushy Park is truly idyllic.