Canada Gate, Green Park, London 1971

A 1970s colour photo of the ornamental flower beds in Green Park, looking towards the Canada Gate and the Victoria Memorial circus during the latter half of the 20th century. The scene from 1971 shows meticulously maintained sweeping lawns and curved beds filled with vibrant red geraniums, leading the eye toward the white stone gate piers topped with allegorical statues. In the background, a long line of vintage tourist coaches, including several Bedford and Ford models in various liveries, are parked along the road as large crowds of visitors gather near the gates. The Canada Gate, presented to Canada in 1911 as part of the Queen Victoria Memorial scheme, serves as a grand entrance to the park and is famous for its intricate gilt-topped ironwork. This peaceful green space has offered a refuge from the surrounding city since it was first enclosed as a royal park by Charles II in the 17th century. For more images of the capital, please visit our main London page where photos are organised by decade or area and theme.