A London tourist has exposed a financial burden hitting visitors to the capital after discovering she would need to pay for the privilege of using a deck chair in Hyde Park.
Nadia Scott turned to social media in disbelief, slamming the fee required to use the outdoor seating for merely one hour in the Westminster hotspot. Nadia launched a TikTok video showcasing a notice in the Grade I-listed urban park, which outlined the hourly charges for deck chairs.
“So we’re in London and they’re charging £4 an hour to sit down,” she fumed. “You can sit down for two hours for £5.50, £6.50 for three hours and £14 to sit on your a**e all day.”
Nadia went on, highlighting the enormous number of chairs that remained “vacant” as she recognised that most people weren’t “stupid enough” to pay when they could simply sit on the grass at no cost.
When asked for her thoughts, Nadia’s friend, Molly replied: “You’ve got be having a f*****g laugh.”
WARNING – explicit language in video below, viewer discretion advised.
A reduced concessions rate is available for students, over 65s and disabled people, while season tickets are on offer for regular users, costing £180 (standard) and £80 (concessions).
Commenting in reply, one TikTok user observed: “The bedrock of capitalism is supply and demand… the only reason this exists is because people are willing to pay for it.”
A second person remarked: “Fair enough to charge for the chairs but those particular prices are extortionate!” And a third disgruntled individual remarked: “I wouldn’t mind if it was some luxury chair, leather, Bluetooth, or massage, but they’re chairs from the Victorian era.”
However, there were those who defended the initiative, including one TikTok user who pointed out: “You’re not paying to sit. You’re paying to use the chair. It’s a business and a service and optional.”
Whilst another queried: “So what’s the problem? If its too expensive for you then you’re not the target audience. Not everything has to be good value to everyone.”
The company behind the deck chair rental scheme, Parkdeck Chairs Ltd, promotes its service online, stating: “We believe London’s parks are sanctuaries where people relax, connect, and enjoy nature. Our mission is to enhance these beautiful spaces by providing high-quality, comfortable, and sustainable deckchair services.
“We are committed to preserving these treasured green spaces through eco-conscious practices, responsibly sourced materials, and a service that supports both people and the planet.”
Chairs can also be hired in The Regent’s Park, Kensington Gardens, St. James’s Park and The Green Park. Deck chairs are available from March to October during daylight hours, weather permitting.