10 London's Gardens you Need to Visit this Summer
Green open spaces, warm weather and a sandwich. If that’s not the perfect afternoon in London. Fortunately, the city has a lot to offer when it comes to parks and gardens to choose from. Take a look at which are best and where to plan your next walk at.
Thanks to Gardener Services London for helping me gather all the information about those gorgeous gardens.
Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens is arguably one of the most famous gardens in the world let alone London. Many thousands of visitors each year come to this World Heritage site located close to the centre of London. Founded in 1840 using the exotic garden that existed in Kew Park, Kew has become the world’s greatest collection of plants. With over 30,000 different plants on offer and a herbarium containing over 7 million dried specimens there is plenty for the visitor to see. Set in 121 hectares, a mix of glasshouses, gardens and many listed buildings, Kew Gardens definitely needs more than one visit to truly appreciate its magnificence.
Chelsea Physic
The Chelsea Physic Garden was established in 1673 to provide medicinal plants to the apothecaries of London. In terms of age it’s second only to the Botanic Gardens of Oxford University. Despite this the Chelsea Physic today still produces a healing effect. It may not be growing plants for remedies and tonics but a day spent here and you’ll definitely feel better for it. Weighing in with over 5000 different plants in only 4 acres of grounds this garden is packed with sights and smells. With many rare plants and one of the earliest rock gardens devoted to alpine plants, made from Icelandic volcanic rock, making this garden a must see.
Hampton Court Gardens
The royal palace of Hampton Court was originally built for Tomas Wolsey but after falling out of grace with Henry viii it was then taken into royal hands. With 26 hectares of gardens and over 304 hectares of parkland it takes a good days’ visit to see and be able to truly appreciate the unique displays of over 200,000 flowering bulbs, wonderful fountains and of course the maze. The great vine planted by ‘Capability Brown’, the Privy Garden and Tiltyard walls are all well worth the visit to this royal garden, one of the capitals iconic landmarks.
Kensington Roof Gardens
This roof garden is considered by many to be the best roof garden in the world, certainly in London. Having been planted some 75 years ago as a department stores’ coffee drinking area, it has grown to become one of London’s natural parks. Tended organically and with only 18 inches of soil this garden is a marvel with trees thriving and even reaching their true full grown sizes. If it wasn’t for the fact that you get a great skyline view of London you could be in any of the great parks. Many events are hosted here taking full advantage of the Italianate gardens, cloisters terraces and ponds making this garden a great venue.
Holland Park
With 50 acres of gardens created in the early 19th century by Lord Holland, boasting large formal borders mixed with much wilder areas, Holland park rates as one of the most relaxing spots in London. Wildlife thrives among the stunning selection of trees so much so that it seems beyond belief that you are in the heart of London. The attention to detail in the Kyoto garden is a credit to the gardeners. With children’s playgrounds and a good restaurant there is something for all the family.
Syon Park
Built in the 1500’s Syon Park is a historic house owned by the Duke of Northumberland. Containing a great hall styled as a Roman basilica and a bedroom that Queen Victoria used, the building is an interesting visit in its own right. Gardens styled by ‘Capability’ Brown and the Great Conservatory built in the 1820’s are the prize here. Set in 40 acres of ground sits a lake which is a beacon for wildlife, take a stroll and you will find a Doric column depicting Flora, Greek goddess of flowers. A beautiful rose garden and a world renowned collection of rare trees, Syon Park is a tranquil oasis in the bustle of London town.
Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park
If you have a couple days free visit Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park together. As they adjoin one another they can be seen as one great green space. 270 acres in Kensington gardens alone mean that a weekend is needed to really take it all in. Charles Bridgman is responsible for the current set out, containing an orangery with glorious decorations, Sir George Frampton’s statue of Peter Pan, a water garden with colourful borders and a recently restored Italian garden.
Chiswick House
Although maybe not one of the most famous gardens Chiswick House does have one of the most popular gardens in London, combining one of England’s architectural beauties with stunning landscapes. Italianate gardens transport the visitor to another world filled with temples, obelisks and statues all tucked away within the trees. Take a stroll along the Oriental Plane walk, a truly stunning avenue or wind your way around the lake to discover the cascade. With over 12 million pounds spent to restore the birth place of the English Landscape Movement a visit is a must for the true garden lover.
Regents Park
Although primarily a royal park opened to the public in 1838, the gardens of Regents Park are visited by thousands. The main attraction is Queen Mary’s rose garden, containing thousands of stunning roses, a large proportion blessed with perfumes to lift the lowest soul. This is all supplemented with herbaceous borders, fountains with tree lined avenues and a wildfowl haven in the shape of an ornamental lake. With London Zoo next to the park a family day out that everyone can enjoy is assured.
Chelsea Flower Show
Although not strictly a single garden and is only in existence 4 days of the year the Chelsea Flower Show has so many visitors is has to be included. Showcasing talent from around the world and producing some of the most inspiring gardening London has to offer. A magnificent day out for all.
Got wisdom to pour?