Take a break from Munich’s bustling streets among the lakes, meadows and beer gardens of this oasis of calm in the centre of the city.
The English Garden (Englischer Garten) is a pretty area of floral displays, tree-lined paths and sprawling meadows in the centre of Munich. The park is known for its beer gardens, relaxing atmosphere and opportunities for watersports.
A section of wild terrain by the River Isar was selected for the park in 1789. Landscape gardener Friedrich Ludwig von Sckell was responsible for the garden’s design, which resembles a typical English park with a man-made lake and bandstand. The garden comprises 3.6 square kilometres (1.4 square miles) of picturesque land from Munich’s centre to the northeastern limits of the city.
Much of the activity in the park revolves around the River Isar, which flows through its centre. Join in the fun by rafting or swimming in the calm water in summer. Relax on the grassy knoll beside the river, but be prepared to see some nude sunbathers. One of the attractions in the park is the stationary wave, which provides perfect conditions for surfers. Buses often stop at the bridge to allow visitors to see adventurous riders surf the man-made wave. Bring some traditional German sausages to cook on barbecues set up in designated areas.
The artificial lake, Kleinhesseloher, is one of the central attractions of the gardens. See the ducks, swans and geese as you row a boat in the scenic lake. A small islet in the middle of the river houses more attractions. Visit the Japanese Tea House, the Greek love temple Monopteros and a Chinese Tower that is surrounded by a beer garden. Traditional oompah bands play for the crowds in the warmer months.
There are horse tracks in the park where well-dressed riders train their horses. Children can go sledding down the snowy hills in the winter months. Bring a pair of skates to go ice-skating on the man-made lake when it freezes over, usually between December and February.
Enjoy the sights and sounds of the park from the comfort of a horse-and-carriage ride for a small fee. You can find the English Garden in the centre of the city. Buses stop at the Chinese Tower. Entrance to the park is free.
