Hyde Park from Domesday-book to Date

A chronological history traces the open ground that became a major metropolitan park from Domesday-era manorial holdings through royal hunting preserves to gradual public access. The book examines land divisions, royal usages, wildlife and administrative changes across regimes, including sale and restoration episodes. Social and recreational life receives detailed attention, from riding and racing along the famous promenade to duelling, skating, boating on the artificial lake, fairs and a large international exhibition. Military reviews, camps and the park's use for public spectacles are recorded alongside accounts of political demonstrations, riots and the authorities' responses. Later chapters describe gates, monuments, bordering mansions, improvements, notable offences, lists of keepers and illustrative plates.