So. The weather is finally set to turn sunny again tomorrow and it looks like the good weather could well be here to stay through the weekend so with that in mind we thought we’d do a round up of London’s best secret gardens…
Postman’s Park, St Paul’s: Just a few minutes around the corner from the cathedral is this little known green space. It’s not only the fact it’s set in the heart of the city that makes this place special, it’s also home to the Watts Memorial a space where ordinary people who lost their lives doing extraordinary things are honoured. Beautiful plaques dating back centuries feature here each describing the story of someone very brave. It’s the perfect place to catch some peace and quiet and really reflect on what’s important.
Pheonix Garden, Shaftesbury Avenue: In a typically busy area this secret garden is an absolute haven come the summer months. With its over growing flowers, streams and collection of wild life that congregate there (including some local cats) it’s the perfect place to hide away come lunch time. There’s barely any seats but there’s lots of grass, walls and tree trunks to perch on while soaking up the sunshine. The only problem? You’ll never want to leave.
Kyoto Japanese Garden, Holland Park: Without seeing this place you’d barely believe it was in London. With flowing waterfalls, vast greenery and an authentic East Asian vibe it’s the perfect must-see for anyone passing through/ It’s been open since 1991 but still remains a relative secret to those not living or working in the area. If you’re looking for a place where you can imagine you’re not in the city anymore then this is the ideal spot for you.
Bonnington Square, Vauxhall: A left over from the areas past Pleasure Garden the space has been specifically designed to create a gental and relaxing place to hide away from it all. From benches and tables you can sit around to with friends, to tall trees and bushes which keep the outside world firmly, well, on the outside Bonnington Square is a slice of the city that all Londoners should check out at least once.
Isabella Plantation, Richmond: First opened in the 1950′s this area of South London is an ornamental woodland garden featuring some pretty exotic looking plants, birds and people. There’s ponds and steams for checking out some fish as well as for relaxing by when the weather is hot and there’s plenty of places to catch some shade for an early evening picnic. Tranquil doesn’t quite cover it.
Psychic Garden, Chelsea: Dating back to the 1600′s this is London’s second oldest Botanical garden. As well as several rare and endangered species the space is also home to thousands of different medical herbs and plants and several fruit trees. There’s also an award winning cafe there serving up afternoon teas for when you’re done exploring.
