This city of ours? It's full of botanical nooks. But it's not all parks and playgrounds. High above the ground and tucked away off the bustling streets, there are a number of free gorgeous spaces filled with tropical plants, vibrant flowers and stunning water features. So, without further ado, take a look at our pick of the best London gardens and add some new spots to your summertime arsenal.
Sky Garden
Located 38 floors above Fenchurch Street, Sky Garden has gained acclaim for having one of the most impressive indoor gardens. Head up to the city oasis where you'll be met with panoramic views and a handful of bars and restaurants interspersed among lush ferns and palm trees. The garden is open to the public for free but you'll need to reserve your spot in advance.
This pretty place also hosts regular live music events.
The Culpeper
It may seem like any old pub from the outside, but The Culpeper is home to one of the most underrated secret gardens in London. Beloved by those in the know, this Spitalfields watering hole has a 'working farm' packed with flowers, herbs and vegetable patches tucked away on its rooftop. No wonder their food and botanical cocktails taste so good.
One of the best rooftop gardens in London? Without a doubt.
Isabella Plantation
Colourful azaleas, 40 acres of wild woodland and various ponds and streams... it's not hard to see why the Isabella Plantation in Richmond Park is regarded locals as their favourite green spot. Take a rhododendron-filled trail around the vibrant estate before enjoying a post-walk refuel at the White Horse. Their Sunday roast is especially scrumptious.
Get lost in a haze of pink at this Richmond Park gem.
Fulham Palace
Embrace your inner Bridgerton with a trip to Fulham Palace, a lofty 17th-century estate. A must for history and nature lovers, the walled garden and surrounding outdoor areas have some of the oldest holm oaks in the country and the first magnolias grown in Europe, as well as a Tudor wall. Make a day of it with a brunch at The Little Blue Door beforehand.
Live out your favourite Jane Austen novels here.
Kyoto Gardens
Kyoto Gardens is a zen and tranquil spot within Holland Park boasting a picturesque waterfall. Just a short walk from cosy pub The Castle and brunch favourite Balans, this tiny bolthole is a far cry from the usual parks around the capital. Instead, you'll find a central pond surrounded by Japanese maple trees and other remarkable shrubs.
Enjoy an afternoon in one of the free gardens to visit in London.
Barbican Conservatory
Searching for the best gardens to visit near you? Look no further than the Barbican Conservatory. Along with fauna from all over the world - from desert cacti and succulents to Swiss cheese plants and orchids - there are three ponds filled with various types of carp. While you're there? Be sure to visit Barbican Brasserie by Searcys, a great European restaurant nearby.
Admission is free to this tropical paradise.
St Dunstan In The East
Nestled in the hub of the City, St Dunstan in the East wins the prize for unusual gardens. Since being all but destroyed during a WW2 bombing, the church has become a public park and a popular place to unwind after work. However, with the Walrus and Carpenter only a hop, skip and a jump away, the pub's not a bad shout either.
Check out this sanctum for a calming lunch spot.
Dalston Curve Garden
Created with the community at its core, Dalston Curve Garden is a gorgeous free hideout in the heart of East London. Take a book and spend a few hours relaxing while sipping on a cup of coffee from its café. Or, if you're after something a little stronger, Village 512 is moments away, offering the likes of CBD-infused lagers and neon interiors.
Step off the train and into this garden to de-stress.
Chelsea Physic Garden
Originally opened in 1673, Chelsea Physic Garden holds the title of the oldest botanical gardens in London. It has greenhouses dotted all around if you fancy checking out some of the 5,000 different plants and regularly hosted events, ranging from picnics to seasonal fairs. For those after a chilled day of tanning and R&R, it's only a stone's throw away from The Phene, a cosy haunt with drinks and classic pub grub.
The Chelsea Physic Garden's tickets start at £15 per person.
Hampstead Heath Garden And Pergola
One of the most well-known and beautiful, Hampstead Heath Garden and Pergola is a jewel in the northern neighbourhood's crown. Along with its charming streets and knockout pubs - shoutout The Holly Bush - of course, venture to this romantic spot for wisteria-clad trellises, regal arches and grand pillars, reminiscent of a Roman palace.
Cameras at the ready for one of the best London gardens.
Chiswick House & Gardens
Another Jane Austen-era property, and the birthplace of the English Landscape Movement, Chiswick House & Gardens has, without a doubt, one of the most stunning gardens in our guide. Expect romantic statues, ornate bridges and curated lawns which are bound to impress. Perhaps not quite as fancy, but a crowd-pleaser all the same, Bell & Crown is your go-to for freshly poured pints and riverside views.
The 65-acre garden is open all year round.
Kew Gardens
We couldn't make a list of the top gardens to hitup without including the national treasure that is Kew Gardens. Handily located by The Coach & Horses, the extensive Royal Botanic Gardens house themed areas, two giant conservatories and a 14,000-strong arboretum; more than enough to keep you entertained. Tickets for adults are £22 if you pre-book online for a peak time, or if you're a student or under 29, you can nab them for around £7 - definitely well worth the trip.
Kew is is an iconic garden with a host of spectacular displays all-year-round.
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