Hyde Park, one of London’s best parks, spreads itself over about 350 acres of neat gardens, vast wilderness overgrown with grass and splendid trees. As well as being a fantastic green space in the middle of the city, it’s home to a handful of appealing sights, and hosts live concerts and events throughout the year.
Hyde Park was created for hunting by Henry VII, who obtained it from the church in 1536. It was enclosed as a deer park and remained a private royal(皇家)hunting ground until James I permitted limited access to the upper-class people. In 1637, Charles I opened the park to the general public.
The eastern half of the park is covered with vast lawns(草地), which become superb picnic areas on sunny days. The western half remains in a wild state, with plenty of trees and areas of wild grass. If you’re after somewhere more colorful, head to the Rose Garden, a beautifully landscaped area with flowers year-round. You won’t want to miss the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain either.
In the northeast part of the park, you’ll find Speakers’ Corner, where speakers step up to give speeches, discussions and debates on various topics. This is an interesting and unusual place to visit, where you can see people gather to listen, applaud or laugh at different speakers. Speakers’ Corner became famous during the Second World War. Nowadays, it is possible to speak public-ally on any topic, as long as the police consider it lawful.
Since 2007, Hyde Park has played host to the annual Winter Wonderland event, which features numerous Christmas-themed markets, along with various rides and attractions, bars and restaurants. It has expanded to include the largest ice rink(溜冰场)in London and live entertainment, and has become one of the largest Christmas events in Europe, having attracted millions of visitors.
8. Who opened the Hyde Park to the general public?
A.Henry Ⅶ | B.James I | C.Charles I | D.Charles Ⅱ |
9. Why does the author mention Diana?
A.To memorize the beautiful princess. | B.To introduce a related appealing site. |
C.To emphasize a relevant court event. | D.To reflect the extraordinary landscape. |
10. How does the author arrange the passage?
A.By examples. | B.By comparisons. |
C.By data and lists. | D.By time and space. |
11. Where can you probably read the passage?
A.A travel brochure. | B.A novel collection. |
C.A geography Textbook. | D.A scientific magazine. |