5 gardens to visit in Central London

When you think of London, you think urban sprawl. But much of the capital is given over to parks, large and small, and public gardens. Surprisingly enough, 47% of Greater London is green. Central London is home to some stunning gardens you may not have even realised were there. Let’s take a stroll through these secret gardens and give you some ideas of where to might like to visit.

Violet Hill Gardens 

This quaint little garden in St. John’s Wood was opened by the Queen Mother in 1952. It underwent improvement works in 2008 to make it what it is today. Take in the landscaped lawns and pretty flower boarders on your visit, while the kids can have some fun on the playground. The garden is open from 8am until dusk, so you can enjoy a full day out. The nearest tube stops are St. John’s Wood and Maida Vale.  

St. John’s Lodge 

This is a beautiful and unmissable, ornamental garden situated within Regent’s Park. It was originally built by John Raffield in 1818. Within the garden you will see a couple of fine sculptural works. The first being the Hylas and the Nymph statue by Henry Pegram. Then there’s the Grade II listed, bronze goatherd’s daughter statue. While there, you must have a wander under the garden arches. 

You can find St. John’s Lodge to the north of the Inner Circle. 
 

Rembrandt Gardens 

This garden was first created in the 50s and originally named Warwick Avenue Gardens. It received the name Rembrandt Gardens when the City of Westminster was linked to the City of Amsterdam in 1975. The most appealing aspect of this spot is that it lies on the Paddington arm of the Great Union Canal, so you can take in the lovely canal–side views. 

Find Rembrandt Gardens in Little Venice, just a short walk from Warwick Avenue tube station. 
 

Bryanston Square Garden 

This lesser-known spot is a mere ten-minute walk from Baker Street. It was originally laid in the early 1800s, so dates to the Georgian period. On the east side of the garden you can still see some of the original Georgian terraced housing. The lofty, London plane trees add to the appeal of this garden. Its play area features some unique, colourful elephants that children and adults alike will love. 

Bryanston Square Garden is located between the tube stations of Edgware Road, Baker Street, Bond Street and Marble Arch.  
 

Manchester Square Garden 

This is a small but charming green space, located directly behind Selfridges. If you’re looking for some calm after shopping, Manchester Square Garden is the place to go. Take the winding paths of the central lawn to the pleasant seating area. You can also visit the Wallace Collection across the road, a free museum that’s open every day. 

Find Manchester Square Garden on Manchester Square in Marylebone, a short walk from Bond Street station. 

If you plan on buying or renting in St. John’s Wood, Marylebone, Baker Street or the surrounding areas, contact one of our agents today.