5 Remarkable Gardens in London

Last Updated on February 17, 2025 by Amitylux

London in spring is just wonderful. As the city comes alive with a kaleidoscope of spring colors, its gardens change into calm retreats of magnificent beauty. Londoners are obsessed with gardening. Not only is it a hobby, but a leisure activity as well. Garden visiting is a favorite pastime of the British, who do not miss out on the opportunity to enjoy their cherished nature. So, do as the locals do. During your tour of the British Capital, search for the best gardens in London to visit.

London is a city of contrasts. It’s fast-paced, loud, and packed with history. But step into one of its hundreds of gardens, and suddenly, everything slows down. Did you know that London is one of the greenest capitals in the world, with nearly 47% of its area covered in parks and gardens? That’s right—half of this bustling metropolis is basically an open invitation to escape the chaos.

From world-famous botanical havens like Kew Gardens to hidden gems like St Dunstan-in-the-East, London’s gardens aren’t just about plants. They’re about history, design, and a much-needed breath of fresh air in the middle of a concrete jungle. Whether you’re a plant lover, a history buff, or just someone looking for the perfect spot for an afternoon coffee, there’s a garden in London for you.

So, where should you go first? That depends. Do you want towering glasshouses filled with tropical plants? Or a rooftop garden with skyline views? Maybe you’re after a secluded 18th-century medicinal garden that feels like stepping into a different era. No matter your vibe, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s explore the best gardens in London—each one a perfect green retreat in a city that never stops moving.

Buckingham Palace Gardens

Few sites in London radiate more majesty and history than the Buckingham Palace Gardens. These gardens span 39 acres and are generally concealed from public view but are occasionally exposed, such as the State Rooms’ annual summer opening. In the spring, the gardens are especially beautiful, with over 350 different varieties of wildflowers, a 150-meter herbaceous border, and a gorgeous lake.

The Chelsea Flower Show

The Royal Horticultural Society hosts the iconic Chelsea Flower Show in May. This renowned display turns the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea into a flowery heaven. The event showcases amazing garden designs, creative landscape ideas, and a stunning display of blossoms from well-known nurseries and designers. It’s more than simply a garden tour; it’s an exhibition of the finest of gardening and plant creativity.

The Chiswick House Gardens

Chiswick House Gardens is an ideal location for anyone seeking a combination of historical charm and natural beauty. The 65 acres of grounds encircling the 18th-century Chiswick House with Italian Renaissance settings will give you a glimpse of the past. In the spring, the gardens come alive with flowering magnolias, camellias, and bluebells. You can take a stroll around the lake, the conservatory, and several walking pathways, and, when you start feeling tired, you can stop for a picnic.

The Sky Garden

 If you want a unique view of London’s springtime flowers, visit the Sky Garden. This rooftop garden, located on the top floor of the Walkie-Talkie building, provides amazing views of the city skyline as well as lush greenery. The Sky Garden is an urban paradise with planted gardens, observation decks, and outdoor terraces. Here, the concept of roof gardens is taken to a whole new level, bringing together the best of city life with nature.

The Kyoto Garden in Holland Park

The Kyoto Garden, hidden on the western side of Holland Park, is one of London’s most lovely secret gardens. Kyoto sent this tranquil Japanese garden as a gift to mark Japan’s long relationship with Britain. The koi pond, tiered waterfalls, and neatly maintained trees and plants make the garden a sight to behold. The brilliant cherry blossoms, azaleas, and Japanese maples create a gorgeous backdrop removed from the noise of the city. This hidden treasure strikes the balance between beauty and Zen serenity.

3 Hidden Gem Gardens in London

London’s biggest gardens are spectacular, no doubt. But sometimes, the best green spaces are the ones nobody talks about. The tucked-away corners. The secret gardens behind stone walls. The places where you can hear birds instead of buses. If you’re looking for something beyond the usual tourist trail, these hidden gem gardens are worth your time.

1. Postman’s Park – A Tiny Oasis with a Powerful Story

📍 Location: King Edward St, London EC1A 7BX

Postman’s Park is small. Blink, and you might miss it. But step inside, and you’ll find one of London’s most moving memorials. This quiet green space, just a short walk from St. Paul’s Cathedral, is home to the Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice—a series of ceramic plaques honoring ordinary people who died saving others. It’s peaceful, reflective, and unlike any other garden in the city.

🌿 Why visit?

• A deeply touching tribute to everyday heroes.

• A quiet, shaded retreat in the middle of the city.

• Perfect for history lovers and those seeking solitude.

2. St Dunstan in the East – A Garden Among Ruins

📍 Location: St Dunstan’s Hill, London EC3R 5DD

If you want a garden that feels like a scene from a fairytale, this is it. St Dunstan in the East is a medieval church that was bombed during WWII, leaving only its outer walls standing. Instead of rebuilding, the city turned the ruins into a hauntingly beautiful garden, with vines weaving through ancient stone windows and benches tucked into archways. It’s one of the most atmospheric spots in London—and it’s completely free to visit.

🌿 Why visit?

• One of London’s most photogenic hidden gardens.

• A blend of history and nature, unlike any other park.

• A peaceful escape, despite being minutes from the Tower of London.

3. Crossrail Place Roof Garden – A Tropical Surprise in Canary Wharf

📍 Location: Crossrail Place, London E14 5AR

Canary Wharf isn’t exactly known for greenery, but this rooftop garden is an exception. Suspended above one of London’s busiest business districts, Crossrail Place Roof Garden is a modern, jungle-like escape with exotic plants from all over the world. The best part? It’s completely free—and one of the few gardens in London that’s open late into the evening.

🌿 Why visit?

• A rare mix of modern design and lush greenery.

• Free entry, even at night.

• Regular live performances and events in its amphitheater.

Tips for Visiting London’s Gardens

You’ve got your list. Now, here’s how to make the most of your garden-hopping adventure.

✔ Go early (or late). The best gardens get crowded, especially on weekends. Morning visits offer a peaceful experience, while evening strolls (at places like Crossrail Place Roof Garden) provide a unique atmosphere.

✔ Check for seasonal highlights. Want to see Kew Gardens’ cherry blossoms? That’s spring. After the fiery autumn leaves at Kyoto Garden? October is your best bet. Different gardens shine at different times of the year.

✔ Bring a book (or a picnic). London’s gardens aren’t just for walking. Slow down, find a bench, and enjoy the space.Many gardens allow picnics, and some even have small cafés hidden inside.

✔ Look up special events. Many gardens offer guided tours, open-air theatre, and late-night openings. Kew Gardens’ Christmas at Kew is legendary, and Sky Garden’s live music nights are a must for a unique city view.

✔ Explore beyond the obvious. The best gardens aren’t always the biggest. Take a detour. Follow an unmarked path. You never know when you’ll stumble upon a quiet walled garden, a forgotten statue, or a hidden greenhouse.

If you’re a passionate gardener, a nature lover, or just want to relax, these five gardens are the perfect place for you. Get your walking shoes on and snap some photos of London’s verdant parks and flower gardens. Experience London through vibrant colours and pleasant aromas.

Conclusion: Now, Go Find Your Perfect Green Escape

So, what’s your garden style? Are you all about Kew’s giant water lilies? Or do you prefer the peaceful ruins of St Dunstan’s? Maybe the Sky Garden’s panoramic city views are more your thing. The beauty of London’s gardens is that there’s something for everyone.

But here’s the trick—don’t just stick to the well-known spots. Yes, Kew and Hyde Park are stunning, but some of the best gardens in London are hidden in plain sight. Ever heard of the Phoenix Garden in Covent Garden? How about the Postman’s Park, filled with memorials to everyday heroes? These are the places that make the city feel personal, like you’ve discovered a secret.

So, go explore. Wander without a plan. Find a bench, sit for a while, and just take in the moment. Because in a city as fast-paced as London, finding your own quiet corner is priceless.

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