Best Gardens in London: 15 Places for Nature & Calm

London is one of the greenest capitals in the world. Beyond the big Royal Parks, the city hides botanic wonders, historic gardens and modern roof terraces. Here’s a handpicked list of 15 of the best gardens in London to relax, picnic and discover plants.

Kew Gardens

The ultimate garden: 300 acres, the world’s largest plant collection, Victorian glasshouses and the soaring Treetop Walkway.

Kyoto Garden, Holland Park

A Japanese landscape gift from Kyoto: koi ponds, maples and waterfalls with resident peacocks.

Chelsea Physic Garden

Founded in 1673, this riverside walled garden focuses on medicinal and useful plants. Quiet, historic and educational.

Barbican Conservatory

A hidden indoor jungle with over 2,000 plants, cacti and koi ponds inside a brutalist arts centre.

St James’s Park Flower Beds

Known for its vivid borders and pelicans, this park frames Buckingham Palace with seasonal colour.

Other Notables

• Greenwich Park (formal gardens + panoramic views)
• Regent’s Park (Queen Mary’s rose gardens)
• Hyde Park (Italian Gardens)
• Victoria Park (lake & pagoda)
• Kenwood House Gardens
• Postman’s Park (hidden memorial garden)
• St Dunstan-in-the-East (ruined church garden)
• Phoenix Garden (community garden in the West End)
• Sky Garden (free rooftop greenery)

Tip: Many gardens are free; check seasonal openings for Chelsea Physic Garden and Kew.

Related: Kew Gardens • Kyoto Garden • Chelsea Physic Garden • Barbican Conservatory