<P> The park was established by Henry VIII in 1536 when he took the land from Westminster Abbey and used it as a hunting ground . It opened to the public in 1637 and quickly became popular , particularly for May Day parades . Major improvements occurred in the early 18th century under the direction of Queen Caroline . Several duels took place in Hyde Park during this time , often involving members of the nobility . The Great Exhibition of 1851 was held in the park , for which The Crystal Palace , designed by Joseph Paxton , was erected . </P>
<P> The park was established by Henry VIII in 1536 when he took the land from Westminster Abbey and used it as a hunting ground . It opened to the public in 1637 and quickly became popular , particularly for May Day parades . Major improvements occurred in the early 18th century under the direction of Queen Caroline . Several duels took place in Hyde Park during this time , often involving members of the nobility . The Great Exhibition of 1851 was held in the park , for which The Crystal Palace , designed by Joseph Paxton , was erected . </P>
when did hyde park open to the public
when did hyde park open to the public
1637
1637