The capital may seem like a sprawling metropolis. But there are tranquil green spaces all over waiting to be explored. Spring is the best time to visit London’s gardens when the city is full of colourful, blooming flowers.
Looking for a place to relax? These six beautiful gardens in London are perfect for getting back to nature:
Read on to plan your next springtime stroll in the city.
Nearest tube station: Sloane Square
Opening times: Find up-to-date opening times here
Free to visit? There is an admission fee to visit the garden. Find out more information here
Chelsea Physic Garden is the oldest botanical garden in London, spanning four acres. It has its own microclimate, meaning many plants here are rare or endangered. Visitors can see spring snowdrops, tulips and one of the UK’s oldest rock gardens.
Chelsea Physic Garden is a welcome retreat from the concrete jungle it pre-dates. It’s only a short distance from Chelsea Bridge and the River Thames and easily accessible from Sloane Square tube station. One of its highlights is the April Spring Fair, where you can buy garden accessories and plants ready for the season.
Visiting as a group? In that case, book a private walking tour to learn more about this beautiful green space.
Nearest rail station: Lewisham (DLR)
Opening times: Find out about up-to-date opening times here
Free to visit? There is an admission fee to explore the palace and gardens. Find out more here
Explore the art-deco-inspired Eltham Palace and its gardens—a haven tucked away in southeast London. The 19 acres here boast an eclectic blend of medieval and contemporary features, including tranquil rock pools, an ancient moat and London’s oldest working bridge.
Eltham Palace Gardens are perfect for a calm spring day, filled with the floral scent of Daphne bholua.A particular highlight is the spring pea plant on top of the rock bank, which displays lovely pink flowers.
The gardens also have activities for younger visitors, including an animal trail and a wooden outdoor play area. Or stop for lunch at the stunning café. Choose from a menu of delicious hot and cold dishes, plus a tempting afternoon tea of sandwiches and cakes.
Nearest tube station: Richmond
Opening times: Find up-to-date opening times for Richmond Park here
Free to visit? The Isabella Plantation is free to explore
Not far from central London, Richmond Park is home to ancient trees, wildflowers, foxes and rabbits. This is London’s largest Royal Park, covering 2,500 acres. It’s an excellent place for a spring walk surrounded by flora and fauna. You may even catch a glimpse of its resident deer herd!
Inside the park is the Isabella Plantation, a woodland garden best known for its azaleas. With lawns, ponds and streams, it’s a wildlife paradise and one of London’s most beautiful flower gardens.
The Isabella Plantation is a must-visit place in late April when eye-catching rhododendrons are in full bloom. You might also spot spring wildlife, like ducklings gliding across the water.
Nearest rail station: Hampton Court
Opening times: Opening times vary. Find up-to-date information here
Free to visit? There is an entrance fee for the palace and gardens. Book your tickets here
Built in the early 16th century, Hampton Court Palace was a favourite of Henry VIII, who brought each of his six wives here. Fast forward to the present day, and the palace is frequented by thousands of visitors eager to understand what life was like for the London royals of yesteryear.
Hampton Court Gardens take the cake as one of the most impressive green spaces in Greater London. Over the centuries, the gardens have showcased different designs, telling stories of the kings and queens of England who have strolled through the grounds.
The gardens contain 750 acres of parkland featuring a puzzle maze and a grapevine. In spring, the Hampton Court gardens come to life with beautiful bulbs in the Wilderness—a wild meadow home to all sorts of wildlife. Daffodils and cherry trees blossom, bringing vibrant colour to the gardens.
Nearest tube station: Regent’s Park
Opening times: Find up-to-date opening times here to plan your visit
Free to visit? Regent’s Park has free entry for visitors
Once a royal hunting ground, Regent’s Park is one of the city’s most picturesque parks, home to gardens, fountains and scenic pathways. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic, where you can relax and admire incredible views. It’s also close to some of London’s top attractions, including ZSL London Zoo and Madame Tussauds.
In spring, check out the Avenue Gardens in the southeast corner, home to Victorian-style flower beds that change every season. The tulips, primroses and pulmonaria and cherry blossoms are a sight not to be missed in springtime!
Nearest rail station: Kew Bridge
Opening times: See up-to-date opening times here for Kew Gardens
Free to visit? You will need to book a ticket to visit the gardens. View the full list of ticket prices
Kew Gardens is one of the world’s most important botanical gardens and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s home to over 50,000 living plants and different areas to explore, including the Temperate House, the Japanese Landscape and the Grass Gardens. Only a short train journey from central London, Kew Gardens offers a peaceful escape from the city.
Kew Gardens is wonderful place to visit during Spring, with all sorts of plants to look out for. See the crocuses in the Woodland Garden, which range from bright orange to pastel pink. And head to the Arboretum to witness an array of magnolias, featuring unique star-shaped flowers.
Looking for the perfect base for your adventure in the capital? Our London hotels are close to the city centre, with excellent transport links nearby. Whether you’re planning to explore the city’s gardens or visit other attractions, our hotels offer a luxury space to rest your head.
Our Leonardo hotels in London include:
With spacious rooms and fantastic health and leisure facilities, our hotels promise a relaxing retreat in the capital.
For more exclusive travel tips and news, keep up to date with the Leonardo Hotels blog.
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