the globe rover

6 PM on a Thursday at Hyde Park in London, England

As I began my first in-line skate around Hyde Park I began to wonder, “what was the proper etiquette for wheels (bikes and in-line skates) at the park and how do they play together?” Given the Park is in England I would assume that road traffic rules apply (similar to the States). So stay to the left and pass on the right; announce “on your right”, and share the bike path with bikers and steer clear of the foot path. Right?

Wrong! I quickly realized that there were no rules. Or at least rules that were followed by most of the people. Although most bikers and skaters stay on the bike path, they often wander over to the foot path which is typically just beside for more space. There was passing on the left and the right and as well as no communication or signals from anyone. It doesn’t take long to figure out there is no pattern and to get the hang of quick maneuvering. But I’d recommend starting slow to anyone uncomfortable on wheels.

The lack of etiquette shouldn’t be a deterrent though. Hyde Park is a wonderful place to be on wheels and enjoy the sunshine. And there is plenty of space and trails to make it an enjoyable exercise experience.

Some more observations at the Park…
1. Cricket → played in both small and large groups
2. Paddle Ball → it may have started at the beach, but the park works great
3. Painting → plenty of choices from landscapes to flowers to monuments
4. Rugby → tough boys running over each other
5. Freestyle Skaters → amazing tricks and slalom skating in and out of the cones
6. Row Boats → arm powered paddling around the lakes this time

Observations at Hyde Park at 7 pm on a Wednesday evening:

1. Naturally nature → over 350 acres of trees, lakes, memorials, and green space
2. Tai Chi training → focusing on the art of meditation and defense
3. Grade school games → cartwheels, balls, swings, and just plain running around
4. Cut-through commuters → the quickest way to reach the after work location
5. Traveling tourists → the most central park in London is on most must see lists
6. Blossoming buds → the tulips are in bloom and add a splash of color
7. Exercise enthusiasts → walkers, runners, bikers, and in-line skaters
8. Gregarious gatherings → friends, families, lovers, and groups
9. Public picnickers → snacks and meals; on a blanket, table, or even the grass
10. Spirited sports → football, boot camp training, and softball all (un)organized
11. Active animals → ducks, squirrels, dogs, pigeons and swans-a-swimming
12. Solitude seekers → on a bench, reading a book, or taking a nap
13. Kicking kites → dual line power kite flyers utilizing the space both up and across
14. Paddles boats → foot powered paddling around the lake by twos or fours
15. Hustling horses → trotting English style around the dirt track
and…
16. Jolly jugglers → five (that’s right, five) bowling pins flying through the air

And at the end of the hour…a rare and beautiful sunset over the northwest side of the park! No matter how much time I spend in Hyde Park, I always find something new to appreciate. It’s truly one of the most majestic and wonderful places in London and I love having it right at my back door!

Interested in seeing a map of the park? Check it out here (Streetmap)…