A casual stroll around London will reveal a host of parks and gardens. It’s an undeniable perk of London: just how much nature is dispersed throughout the city. Fortunately for us, many of them are open to the public – allowing even those of us who live in the smallest of flats access to huge swathes of the outdoors.
Some, however, are locked up behind imposing iron gates and fencing. You either have to know someone who knows someone, or just be rich and lucky enough to live somewhere that grants access. But for one weekend only, you no longer need to cower outside the gate, peering in at the manicured greenery and rolling walkways. On June 10 and 11 (this weekend!), London Open Gardens is opening up access to some of London’s most secretive, exclusive gardens.
This year’s gardens
For 2023, London Open Gardens have secured access to some considerably impressive gardens, in some rather unique places. These range from rooftop terraces with gorgeous views of London to formal courtyards, with Insta-worthy spots a-plenty. This year’s exciting additions include the 25 Cannon Street rooftop, offering incredible views of the neighbouring St Paul’s Cathedral, and the OmVed Gardens in Highgate with its recently rewilded flower meadows and vegetable patches.
Read more: There’s A Tiny Park Next To St Paul’s That Offers A Moment Of Mid-City Tranquillity.
Various other gardens are also returning after being absent in previous years. Perhaps the most exciting return is that of the 17th-century Kitchen Garden at Chiswick House. Since the Kitchen Garden is typically a ticketed attraction in its own right, the London Open Gardens weekend allows access to a whole host of other gorgeous London gardens as well, for just one price.
In total, there are over 100 gardens open to the ticket-holding public across the weekend. Worried you won’t be able to see the best of the best? Fret not, because London Open Gardens have a range of tours available, from guided historic tours to self-guided walking and cycling tours. You can also plan ahead for your visit with their online London Open Gardens guide. A full list of the gardens that you’ll be able to access can be seen here, which can be sorted by park name, area, or borough.
A standard adult weekend ticket costs £20, giving you access to the gardens across the weekend. Book your ticket here to avoid missing out!