Victoria Park

As Hong Kong's largest park, Victoria Park is a much-valued square of green with a prime location on the Island's harbour, perfectly situated to capture the sea's cooling breezes. Apart from that sea-facing frontage, its 47 acres are pressed in on all sides by the East District's ranks of residential towers. But once you step within its bounds, you're in a different world, one of smooth lawns and swaying trees – a genuine sanctuary from the endless busyness of central Hong Kong.

The dominant feature of the Park is the statue of Queen Victoria, after whom the Park is named. It was installed when Hong Kong was a British colony, and almost destroyed in the Second World War. The Japanese took it to be melted down, during their occupation of the city, but it was rescued after the war ended. Now she sits serenely on her cast-iron throne, even though the British have long gone. The open spaces of the park are free for walkers to amble, joggers to perspire and for practitioners of tai chi to elegantly balance.

Victoria Park also has numerous organised leisure facilities for citizens and visitors alike, including tennis courts, football pitches, swimming pools and basketball courts. There are also several children's playgrounds, and – for kids of all ages – a Model Boat Pool, which you can power across with remote-controlled toy boats. Another popular part of the Park is the Arts Corner, where arts and crafts are sold, and artists will paint, sketch or photograph to your order.

For Hong Kong's residents, Victoria Park is also of huge important as a meeting point – a place to gather in times of happiness, as well as times of protest. A great time to visit is during the celebrations of the Chinese New Year, in January or February, or the Mid-Autumn Festival, when the park becomes a sea of lights, as lanterns are lit at sunset. The Park is also host to a more sombre spectacle, each 4th June when thousands gather for a candlelit vigil in remembrance of Tiananmen Square. Victoria Park may be a place of leisure, but it’s also a place where Hong Kong's history isn't forgotten.