Pelicans on The lake

St James’s

St. James’s is an affluent area in the City of Westminster, central London. It is bounded to the north by Piccadilly, to the west by Green Park, to the south by The Mall, and to the east by Haymarket. The area is known for its high-end fashion boutiques, exclusive gentlemen’s clubs, and historic buildings.

History

St. James’s has a long and fascinating history. The area was originally marshland, but it was drained and developed in the 17th century. King Charles II and his courtiers moved to the area, which became known as the “Court Quarter”. Many of the streets in the area were named after members of the royal family or famous courtiers.

Attractions

St. James’s is home to several notable landmarks and attractions. St. James’s Palace,  built in the 16th century  is one of the oldest royal palaces in London.

Jermyn Street is famous for its bespoke tailoring and luxury goods shops, while Piccadilly is home to several upscale department stores.

St. James’s Park, one of London’s eight Royal Parks, is located on the edge of the area. The park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with its beautiful gardens, lake, and resident pelicans.

The Park

St. James’s Park covers an area of 57 acres and is the oldest of London’s eight Royal Parks. The park was originally a marshland, but it was drained and landscaped in the 17th century. The park features a lake, several fountains, and a variety of flora and fauna, including over 15 species of waterfowl.

 

The park is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park, taking in the stunning gardens and the lake. The park is also a great place to have a picnic or simply relax in the sun.

The Pelican Colony

One of the most popular attractions in St. James’s Park is the resident pelican colony. The pelicans were originally a gift to King Charles II from the Russian Ambassador in the 17th century. They have been a beloved feature of the park ever since.

https://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/st-jamess-park/things-to-see-and-do/wildlife/pelicans

Today, the pelican colony consists of several pelicans, which  visitors can watch being fed daily at 2:30 pm, an event that draws large crowds.

Watching the pelicans being fed is a fascinating experience. The birds are so used to being fed by park staff that they have become quite tame. Visitors can get up close and personal with the pelicans, who often put on a show of flapping their wings and squawking for their food.

Conclusion

St. James’s Park is a must-visit destination in London. The park’s stunning landscapes and serene atmosphere make it the perfect place to unwind and relax. The resident pelican colony is a unique and fascinating attraction that draws visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re a nature lover, a bird enthusiast, or simply looking for a beautiful place to spend an afternoon, St. James’s Park is not to be missed.

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