Views of Speakers Corner, London, England

 Speaker's Corner, Hyde Park, London

Preachers at Speaker's Corner, Hyde Park, London - 1986

Speaker's Corner, Hyde Park, London, England - 1987

Speaker's Corner, Hyde Park, London, England - 1986

Preacher at Speaker's Corner, Hyde Park, London, England - 1986

Preacher at Speaker's Corner, Hyde Park, London, England - 1986

Speakers Corner, Hyde Park, London, England - 1987

Preacher at Speaker's Corner, Hyde Park, London, England - 1986

Preachers at Speaker's Corner, Hyde Park, London, England - 1995

Preacher at Speaker's Corner, Hyde Park, London, England - 1986

Preacher at Speaker's Corner, Hyde Park, London, England - 1987

Preacher at Speaker's Corner, Hyde Park, London, England - 1995

Sunday Morning at Speaker's Corner, Hyde Park, London, England - 1995

Sunday mornings at Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park, London, are a unique and vibrant tradition. This historic site, located at the northeastern corner of Hyde Park near Marble Arch, has been a venue for public speaking, debate, and discussion since the mid-19th century. Here are some key features of a typical Sunday morning at Speakers' Corner:

1. Diverse Speakers: You'll find a wide array of speakers addressing various topics, ranging from politics and religion to philosophy and social issues. The diversity of opinions is one of the cornerstones of this tradition.

2. Open Debate: The atmosphere is one of open debate and free speech. Anyone can stand up and speak on a subject they are passionate about, and they often attract impromptu audiences who engage with them, sometimes challenging their views or supporting them.

3. Crowds and Atmosphere: The area attracts not just speakers but also tourists, locals, and passers-by. The mix of people creates a lively and sometimes charged atmosphere, with debates often becoming quite animated.

4. Historical Significance: Speakers' Corner has a rich history of hosting notable figures, including Karl Marx, Vladimir Lenin, and George Orwell. It is seen as a symbol of the right to free speech.

5. Cultural Experience: For visitors, attending Speakers' Corner offers a unique cultural experience. It's a place where the principles of democracy and free expression are practised in a very direct and often entertaining manner.

If you plan to visit, it's best to go mid-morning to early afternoon, as this is when the most activity typically occurs. Whether you choose to speak or simply listen, it's a fascinating glimpse into the power of public discourse.


All images taken with a Contax 137MD Camera
using Kodak and Ilford 35mm film stock