LONDON HISTORY: THE HISTORY OF HOLLAND PARK

London has over a thousand parks, grouped as royal parks, public parks, city farms, or converted churchyards. These parks provide a relaxing place for people who stay near Holland Park to enjoy themselves, bond, or unwind. Located in Kensington, Holland Park is the largest park in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. It is bordered by Holland road to the West, Holland Park Avenue to the North, Kensington Church Street to the East, and Kensington High Street to the South.

Formally known as Cope Castle, Holland Park was established in the 18th Century between 1860 and 1880. It is recorded that the park may have come to existence in the year 1605 when Sir Walter Cope built a house in Holland park’s same location. William Kent and Charles Hamilton were the chief designers and master builders and managed to build around 200 homes. In 1610, Sir Walter Cope had four manors that made up Kensington, in his possession. After Sir Walter Cope died, his wife remarried, and this meant that the property would go to one of Sir Walter Cope’s children. The property was reverted to his daughter, who was married to, Sir Baron Kensington, the first Earl Holland, who renamed the property Holland House.

Over the years, The Holland House passed through various members of the family of the Earl of Holland. During the reign of the third Earl, the house was a spot for glamorous social events, literary centers, and a political Centre. In the year 1940, during the 2nd world war, Holland house was bombed. This did a lot of damage to the house. To date, the remains are still in use as an artistic backdrop for theatrical performances. In 1952, the London County Council purchased Holland Park and House from the sixth Earl of Ilchester, and Holland Park became a public park.

Londoners who stay near Holland Park can enjoy sports activities such as table tennis, football, golf, and netball. There is an ecological Centre for organic touch, a resourceful Kyoto Japanese Garden, an Opera for impressive performances, and beautiful restaurants and hotels.