Green spaces
Description:
Explore the gorgeous parks and gardens of London. From the Royal Botanical Gardens in Kew to the obscure Chelsea Physic Garden. Enjoyable even for those without green thumbs.
Author: Erin
Day 1 - London
Many local families have an annual pass to the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew in order to gain some much needed space & to breathe the fresh air. The gardens are beautiful year round and make us feel like we have gone to the country. The kids love Climbers and Creepers, an indoor interactive and educational play area for entertainment year round and for all weather! Cycles are not allowed within the gardens; however, joggers have been spotted trotting through the gardens. Spectacular giant lily pads fill one of the small glass houses and the Princess of Wales Conservatory houses aquatic plants and creatures alike. There is always an activity to do or special exhibit to see for all age groups. Cafes and shops are top notch and for tea try The Original Maids of Honour across the street.
If the day still allows hop back onto the Tube and stop off at Holland Park. Not nearly the crowds of Kensington Gardens, but all the beauty. Tucked away in a gorgeous West London neighborhood, men playing chess greet park-goers near the entrance. Kids will head straight for the top-notch adventure playground before chasing peacocks and squirrels. The peaceful Kyoto Japanese Gardens are perfectly manicured and complete with fish. Wander the trails and make sure to find the ice cream stand in the middle of the small park. In summer, the park hosts outdoor opera and Shakespearean events. High Street Kensington is in one direction while the lovely little shopping area of Holland Park is in the other, with gorgeous homes and mews.
2
Holland Park
Location:
view in google mapsThe Stable Yard Holland Park Ilchester Place
W8 6LU London, United Kingdom
Phone:
+44 20 7602 2226Day 2 - London
Large and crowded this area still deserves a half a day. Look for the Peter Pan statue, take in the Princess Diana Memorial and be sure to look at the gardens attached to the palace - absolutely stunning. Leave before lunch and the crowds and walk south down Sloane Street. Have lunch on the top floor of John Lewis for panoramic views of Kensington & Chelsea before walking a bit further down to Royal Hospital Road. One of the most fascinating city gardens is hidden behind towering brick walls near the Chelsea Royal Hospital. Founded in 1673 as an apothecaries garden to train students, the garden is still used today for education and medicinal research. Public hours are restricted to Wednesdays through Fridays and Sundays, April through October. Also on site are a nice little shop and a cafe. Events, activities and lectures are held regularly.
1
Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens
Location:
view in google mapsWest Carriage Drive
W2 2UH London, United Kingdom
Phone:
+44 (0)20 7298 21002
Chelsea Physic Garden
Location:
view in google maps66 Royal Hospital Road
Chelsea
SW3 4HS London, United Kingdom
Phone:
+44 20 7352 5646