The Bois de Boulogne is intimately linked with the history of Parisian people; firstly a hiding place for bandits it was then to be exloited for hunting (François I), and for the construction of ships for the Royal Navy (Louis XIV). The "bois" was next to become a very fashionable place for promenades. It was in 1852 that it was to become the property of the City and also from this same date that it takes its present form: this huge 846-hectare park today provides different possibilities for walks and many pleasant spots. There are special attractions for children like the Musée en herbe du jardin d'Acclimatation Tel. 01.40.67.97.66 Fax 01.40.67.92.13 Also, Bowling de Paris with 24 lanes Tel. 01.53.64.93.00 Fax 01.45.01.55.33. In fine weather people flock to the banks of the two lakes: the "Lac Supérieur" (large lake) flows in waterfalls into the "Lac Inférieur" (small lake). You can also go rowing; for information on boat hire telephone 01 45 25 44 01 (from 10am to 7pm, from mid-February to end of October). You also have the opportunity of watching a play at the Théâtre de Verdure in the Jardin Shakespeare in the Pré Catalan park, tel. 01.40.19.95.33. Finally, an excellent place for outings the Bois de Boulogne provides 35km of cycle routes and 28km for horse riding. Bicycles may be hired opposite the main entrance of the Jardin d'Acclimatation (every day from mid-October to mid-April and Wednesdays, weekends and public holidays from mid-October to mid-April.)