The English Garden: A Park Like No Other

Discover the allure of Munich’s iconic English Garden, a sprawling green oasis akin to Central Park or Golden Gate Park, but arguably better. Explore its vast expanse, unique features, and rich history, offering visitors an unforgettable experience in the heart of the city.

A Park Like No Other

Riding our bikes thru the park!

Nestled amidst the bustling city of Munich lies the picturesque English Garden, an urban retreat that rivals the likes of Central Park in New York and Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. Spanning approximately 4.8 km (3 miles) in length and around 1 km (.5 miles) wide, this expansive green space encompasses 921 acres of lush landscapes and captivating scenery.

The southern entrance, a mere mile northeast of Marienplatz, serves as the gateway to this green paradise. Here, visitors are greeted by Munich’s famous river surfing scene, adding a unique and vibrant element to the park’s vibe. The English Garden boasts a sophisticated canal system, which channels pristine water from the Isar River throughout its grounds, offering a great chance to swim on warm summer days. This is in fact one of the many unique features  this park has to offer.

Swimming at the Eisbach and/or the Schwabinger Bach

People swimming and shilling at the Schwabingerbach.

The Eisbach is one of two man-made rivers located in Munich’s English Garden. It is renowned for its unique surfing wave as well as a place where you can drift with the current. Although both activities are officially banned by the authorities, they still occur. During hot summer days, thousands of locals jump into the Eisbach from the southern side and drift all the way into the second surf wave. “What?” you say? Yes, there is another surf wave in the English Garden, mostly used by beginner surfers due to its size and greater depth. It offers an exhilarating float recommended for those who consider themselves good swimmers due to its increased risk.

However, if you are just looking to cool off and enjoy a lazy float, then the Schwabinger Bach is for you. The Schwabinger Bach is also a man-made river and has been adapted to please water fans looking for a quick splash. This water stream is warmer than the former and poses little risk to swimmers or non-swimmers due to its shallow depth.

One huge aspect to consider is that it is allowed to bring food and drinks to the park. Munich does not have a beach, but believe us when we say that this is a close alternative to have and it’s located in the middle of the city. So now you tell me, How many parks do you know that are in the middle of the city where you can swim, have a picnic including beer and wine? Not many right?

Exploring the English Garden by Bicycle

We ride through the English Gardens in all our tours!

While the English Garden can be explored on foot, it’s best experienced on two wheels. Bicycles offer visitors the freedom to cover more ground in less time, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the park’s beauty while enjoying the scenic views and cultural attractions it has to offer. The park is full of cycle paths to follow in and around the vast greenery inspired by the english countryside.

One of the biggest advantages that the two wheel transport provides is that you can easily move to one of the many beer gardens in the park. In Bavaria all beer gardens allow you to bring your own food and eat the tables of the beer gardens as long as you buy the drinks at the stalls. That is right, you are reading correctly.

Another huge plus is that most beer gardens have their own kids playgrounds, each one as beautiful as the other. So while you and your adult loved ones enjoy your beer and food your little ones are entertained by the wonderful Spielplatz at the beer garden. Your kids will simply want to live in this park. If you don‘t have a bike to get around the park, do not worry we have you covered, wink.

More to See than Just a Garden

With 69 bridges traversing its canals, nearly 10 miles of horseback riding paths, and approximately 40 miles of walkways, the English Garden offers an array of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll along its meandering paths, a scenic bike ride through its picturesque landscapes, or a relaxing picnic by its tranquil pond, there’s something for everyone to enjoy amidst this urban oasis.

Additionally, a large nudist meadow offers a unique and liberating experience for those seeking a more unconventional form of relaxation. Yes, for many of you it might seem toomuch but this specific topic will be addressed on a later blog post. It has to do with the FKK culture which advocates non-sexualized nudity for relaxation, wellness, and socializing in natural environments, based on individual comfort levels and beliefs.

About the Creator of the English Garden

Friedrich Ludwig von Sckell (left) explains his plans for the English Garden to Elector Carl Theodor (center) and Benjamin Thompson Imperial Count of Rumford (right)

The English Garden was the brainchild of an Englishman named Benjamin Thompson, later known as Count Rumford, and was landscaped in the English style, hence the name. Thompson, a British loyalist during the American Revolutionary War, commanded Fort Huntington, located about 10 miles from Mike Lasher‘s upbringing on Long Island. Before the war ended, Thompson held the rank of Colonel. Upon returning to England, he ventured to the European continent with the intention of offering his services to the “Kaiser” of the Holy Roman Empire.

While en route to Vienna, he encountered the ruler of Bavaria, Karl Theodor, who essentially offered him a job, prompting his relocation to Munich. In addition to being a capable military leader of superior intelligence, Thompson was also a scientist and prolific inventor. He ascended to the role of chief military advisor to Karl Theodor and in 1789 proposed repurposing the hunting grounds of the Wittelsbach rulers, located just north of the city center. The original plan to use the grounds as a military garden shifted to that of a public park after the outbreak of the French Revolution in July 1789. Karl Theodor’s concerns about public opinion and the uprising of the peasantry in France likely influenced his decision to prioritize the park as a space for the people of Munich to enjoy.

A Top Highlight in Munich

The Chinese Tower in the English Garden.

In conclusion, Munich’s English Garden stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of nature, history, and culture within the heart of the city. Whether it’s a leisurely day of exploration, a refreshing swim in its pristine waters, or simply basking in the serenity of its lush landscapes, the English Garden offers an unforgettable experience for visitors from near and far. So, grab your bike, pack a picnic, and embark on an adventure to discover the hidden treasures of this urban gem.

Did you know that Mike’s Bike Tours pays a substantial fee to ride bikes through the English Garden? We do this to contribute to its conservation and to have the privilege of riding with you on tour. Not many bike tour companies can afford this! So remember if you are coming to Munich, don’t miss out and book a tour with us!