Whilst the seasons outside continue to endure a low-key identity crisis, allow us to point you in the direction of a secret spot in the city that blossoms and blooms, whatever the weather. Nestled inside an abandoned church in Lambeth is the unbe-leaf-ably gorgeous Garden Museum. This picture-perfect paradise is so well-hidden, most Londoners have no idea it’s there – but once you find it, you’ll be blooming glad you did.
The Garden Museum digs deep into the history of British gardeningexploring how and why we garden – from past to present day. Bursting at the seams with artefacts, tools, beautifully-designed gardens, artwork displays, and – of course – a plethora of plants; the museum certainly has all of the ingredients for a truly wholesome day out in the capital.
The Garden Museum
Tucked away inside the previously-abandoned church of St Mary-at-Lambeththe Garden Museum was opened in 1977 following the green-fingered efforts of Rosemary and John Nicholson. The venue for this verdant museum certainly wasn’t chosen by chance, as it happens to be the final resting place of John Tradescant – who is widely considered as the first great gardener in British history. His tomb can be found in the museum’s leafy green courtyard space, which was designed to be an ‘Eden’ of rare plants.
Among the museum’s proud possessions are the likes of a 17th-century watering pot and other historic gardening tools and items. The Garden Museum is also home to the Archive of Garden Designwhere Londoners can take a peek at the working records of leading British garden designers from the 20th and 21st centuries.
Next to the garden, you’ll find the cute-as-a-button Garden Café. Once you’ve wandered your way through the museum and gardens, you can relax with some well-deserved tea and cake (or opt for a full-on meal if it’s past 12pm). Throughout the year, the Garden Museum hosts a variety of events, talks, and exhibitions – and you can even get married there. Sounds pretty blooming perfect to us.
📍 You’ll find the Garden Museum at 5 Lambeth Palace Road, SE1 7LB.
Find out more and plan your visit here.
