Hotels near Inn the Park - St James's Park

Inn the Park is the brainchild of famed restaurateur Oliver Peyton, his idea being to cook up quality alternatives to the soggy sandwiches and warm cola of picnics past and create a new era of 'inn-park' dining. And, it must be said, he's done a remarkable job - simple and seasonal British food is served in a contemporary, no-fuss environment that succeeds in being inviting at the same time. The menu changes through the day from brunch to buffet to cafe to proper restaurant, and there are picnics to take away in summer. The food - especially the buffet - can be a little variable in quality, but it is often excellent. Prices are reasonable, and the location, in the midst of the royal park, overlooking Duck Island and the lake, more than makes up for any complaints. The stroll through this glorious green expanse to reach the restaurant is another high point - if you stop on the bridge you can look one way to see Buckingham Palace and the other for the London Eye standing picture-perfect behind the Foreign Office.