The results for the annual London in Bloom awards are in and it’s official… London is bloomin’ lovely. London in Bloom is a campaign to “green” up London’s grey spaces and encourage communities to love and care for their environment. This year they presented over 180 awards to parks and green spaces across the city, but we’ve handpicked the best of the winners for you!
1. Park of the Year — Victoria Embankment Gardens, Westminster
A glorious retreat from the hustle and bustle of Embankment. You’ll find beautiful flower beds throughout the year and a bandstand with a full programme of events in the summer!
Nearest station: Embankment (Bakerloo, Circle, District and Northern Line)
2. Large Park of the Year — Raphael Park, Havering
It’s got a lake, a fountain and a conservation area. But most importantly, it’s got a beautiful restaurant/Meze bar that overlooks the lake and serves delicious food!
Nearest station: Romford or Gidea Park (Tfl Rail)
3. Large(r) Park of the Year — Alexandra Park, Alexandra Palace Trust
You may not be able to float around in colourful plastic swans for much longer (you have until November) but you can explore the park, have a coffee at the Grove café or nose about in the city’s famous garden centre.
Nearest station: Alexandra Palace (Overground) or Wood Green (Piccadilly Line)
4. Walled Garden of the Year — Hill Garden and Pergola
One of London’s hidden gems, the Pergola in Hampstead is seriously dreamy. Go and see for yourselves! Also, if you need any more convincing, here are some more reasons you should get lost in Hampstead.
Nearest station: Hampstead or Golders Green (Northern Line)
5. Churchyard of the Year — St Olave, Hart Street
St Olave’s is one of the smallest churches and one of the few surviving medieval buildings in the city.
Nearest station: Fenchurch Street (National Rail) and Tower Hill (Circle and District Line)
6. Common of the Year — Barnes Common, Richmond
A place of sanctuary south-west of the city, Barnes Common is full of wonderful wildlife and woodland and it bagged the gold for Common of the Year. (It’s okay Clapham, we still love you)!
Nearest station: Barnes (South West Trains)
7. Heritage Park and Garden of the Year — Chiswick House and Gardens
Explore hidden pathways and a beautiful array of flowers. Chiswick Gardens has inspired some of the most iconic parks and gardens, including Blenheim Palace and Central Park in New York.
Nearest station: Chiswick (South West Trains) or Chiswick Park (District Line – 20 min walk)
8. Borough of the Year — Hillingdon
Big up Hillingdon for being the greenest of London boroughs. Could say we’re green with envy. Har har!
Featured image credit: Flickr Brian Adamson