Discover Lancaster Gate
Your independent guide to one of London's most elegant Victorian neighbourhoods – on the doorstep of Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and the Italian Gardens, with superb transport links across the capital.
Welcome to Lancaster Gate
Nestled on the northern edge of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, Lancaster Gate is a stunning example of mid-Victorian architecture. It offers an atmosphere of tranquil sophistication while being just moments away from the buzz of central London. Whether you're here for a peaceful park walk, exploring famous museums, or venturing into the West End, Lancaster Gate is the perfect starting point.
Visitor Information
Everything you need to plan your visit to Lancaster Gate.
Lancaster Gate Location
Address: Bayswater Road, London W2
Lancaster Gate is located on the northern edge of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, in the heart of Central London. It sits within the City of Westminster, bordered by Bayswater to the west, Paddington to the north, and Marble Arch to the east.
Walking distances: 10 minutes to Paddington Station, 15 minutes to Marble Arch, 20 minutes to Oxford Street.
Lancaster Gate Directions
Lancaster Gate Tube Station is on the Central Line (Zone 1), between Queensway and Marble Arch stations.
Nearby stations: Queensway (Central Line, 5 min walk), Paddington (Elizabeth, Bakerloo, Circle, District, Hammersmith & City lines, 10 min walk).
Bus routes: 94, 148, 274, N207.
Tip: Lancaster Gate station has lift access only – at busy times, Queensway station is a short walk away.
Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens
Lancaster Gate provides direct access to two of London's most beautiful Royal Parks, covering over 350 acres of green space.
Hyde Park: 142 hectares featuring the Serpentine lake, Diana Memorial Fountain, and Speakers' Corner.
Kensington Gardens: 107 hectares home to Kensington Palace, the Albert Memorial, Peter Pan statue, and the stunning Italian Gardens.
The Italian Gardens
Just a short walk from Lancaster Gate station lies one of Kensington Gardens' most beautiful treasures. Created in the 1860s as a gift from Prince Albert to Queen Victoria.
Features four ornamental pools, classical sculptures, intricate urns, and the stunning Tazza Fountain overlooking the Long Water.
Facilities: Italian Gardens Café on site serving breakfast, lunch and refreshments.
Lancaster Gate Hotels
Lancaster Gate offers excellent accommodation options, from 5-star luxury to comfortable budget hotels.
Notable hotels: Royal Lancaster London (5-star, panoramic Hyde Park views, award-winning Nipa Thai restaurant), Lancaster Gate Hotel, Park Grand Lancaster Gate.
Nearby Attractions
Walking distance: Kensington Palace (15 min), Notting Hill & Portobello Road Market (15 min), Queensway shopping (5 min).
Short tube ride: Oxford Street (3 stops), Museum Quarter in South Kensington (10 min), West End theatres (15 min).
Find Lancaster Gate
Located on the northern edge of Hyde Park, with easy access to Central London.
Explore Lancaster Gate
Find everything you need to plan your visit.
Getting to Lancaster Gate
Excellent transport links by tube, train, bus, or car.
By Tube & Train
Lancaster Gate station is on the Central Line (Zone 1). Nearby Paddington Station offers National Rail services, the Heathrow Express (15 min to Heathrow), and the Elizabeth, Bakerloo, Circle, District, and Hammersmith & City lines.
By Bus
The area is served by numerous bus routes, including the 94, 148, 274, and the night bus N207, providing excellent connections across London, including to the West End and Victoria.
By Car
Located on the A40 Bayswater Road, Lancaster Gate is accessible by car, though be aware of the Congestion Charge Zone. Public car parks are available but can be expensive. Public transport is recommended.
Things to Do in Lancaster Gate
Discover some of the best attractions and activities on your doorstep.
1. Explore Hyde Park
Enjoy London's most famous park. Go boating on the Serpentine, visit the Diana Memorial Fountain, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk through 142 hectares of green space.
2. Visit the Italian Gardens
Discover the ornamental water garden created by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria. Features four pools, classical sculptures, and the beautiful Tazza Fountain.
3. Kensington Palace
Visit the birthplace of Queen Victoria and former home of Princess Diana. Explore the State Apartments and beautiful Sunken Garden (15 min walk).
4. Portobello Road Market
Walk to vibrant Notting Hill and explore the world-famous Portobello Road Market. Best on Saturdays for 1,500+ antique and vintage stalls.
5. See a West End Show
Hop on the Central Line for a few stops to reach Oxford Circus and Tottenham Court Road, the gateways to London's Theatreland.
View Show Times & TicketsFind More to Do
Check our dedicated page for a full list of activities and attractions in and around Lancaster Gate.
See all attractions →Dining & Pubs Near Lancaster Gate
From traditional pubs to world-class restaurants, Bayswater offers diverse dining options.
Queensway Dining
Just a 5-minute walk, Queensway offers diverse cuisines including Italian at Rudy's Pizza, Argentinian steaks at Chamuyo, and The Park brasserie by renowned restaurateur Jeremy King.
Traditional Pubs
Enjoy classic British pubs including The Swan (opposite Hyde Park), The Leinster Arms, The Prince Edward on Prince's Square, and The Kings Head (dating back to 1824).
Cafés & Parks
Relax at the Italian Gardens Café overlooking the fountains, the Serpentine Bar & Kitchen by the lake, or grab artisan ice cream from Fentons near Queensway station.
Discover the Italian Gardens
Just a short walk from Lancaster Gate lies one of Kensington Gardens' most beautiful treasures. The Italian Gardens are a magnificent 160-year-old ornamental water garden. Created in the 1860s as a gift from Prince Albert to Queen Victoria, their intricate design and serene fountains provide a perfect spot for relaxation and photography. Entry is free, and the Italian Gardens Café offers refreshments with stunning views.