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Kensington Roof Gardens

London's Hanging Gardens of Babylon

Not to be confused with Kensington Gardens , Kensington Roof Gardens is London's equivalent of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. 

In an unlikely location on top of a department store on Kensington High Street, these tranquil gardens were planted in the 1930s and feature a Spanish garden, a Tudor garden, an English woodland garden, and even resident flamingos!

Kensington Roof Gardens Introduction

I learned about Kensington Roof Gardens from David Long's book Spectacular Vernacular.

Virgin Limited Edition - the luxury portfolio of Virgin Hotels Group Ltd - has owned the gardens since 1981, and renamed them 'The Roof Gardens' (although everyone still refers to them as Kensington Roof Gardens).

Combine your visit to Kensington Roof Gardens with a meal at the Babylon restaurant which serves contemporary British cuisine and overlooks the gardens.

Themed Gardens

There are three themed gardens, with over 70 full-size trees, a flowing stream stocked with fish and resident flamingos: Bill, Ben, Splosh and Pecks.

• Spanish Garden This is the most formal and is based on the Alhambra, the Moorish fortress complex in southern Spain. There are fountains and vine-covered walkways, all centered around a curved sun pavilion designed by Bernard George.
• Tudor Garden A smaller formal walled garden with archways and secret corners. It's very much a scented garden with an abundance of lavender, roses, and lilies, plus panoramic views over west London through windows in the walled edge.
• English Woodland Garden This meandering garden overlooks the High Street to the south. There are a huge variety of trees, many with Tree Preservation Orders to protect the garden. There's also a stream and a garden pond that is home to pintail ducks and flamingos.

Kensington Roof Gardens History

The Roof Gardens cover 1.5 acres on top of the former Derry and Toms building on Kensington High Street, making it the largest roof garden in Europe.

1930s In the 1930s Trevor Bowen (the vice-president of Barkers, the Kensington department store that owned the site and constructed the building in 1932) commissioned Ralph Hancock, a leading landscape gardener, to create the gardens. The gardens were laid out between 1936 and 1938 at a cost of £25,000.

1970s The department store building was Derry and Toms until 1973 and some people still refer to the gardens as 'Derry and Toms Gardens'. It was then the infamous Biba store until 1975.

The Gardens were declared a Grade II listed site by English Heritage in 1978.

1980s The gardens were pretty much abandoned until Virgin took over in 1981. Virgin uses The Roof Gardens for private luxury entertaining but the good news is that the gardens are open to the public unless pre-booked by a private party.

How to Visit Kensington Roof Gardens

The Roof Gardens is located at 99 Kensington High Street, London, W8 5SA. Access to the building is via Derry Street which branches off Kensington High Street.

Nearest Tube Station: High Street Kensington

Use Journey Planner to plan your route by public transport.

The Roof Gardens is open to the public, unless in use for a private event or for the annual winter maintenance. Always call first to check: 020 7937 7994.

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Kensington Roof Gardens in London [now known as The Roof Gardens]

Last Updated on 27th June 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my  privacy policy  and  disclosure  for more information.

What if I told you that there’s a secret garden situated high above one of London’s busiest high streets. A little green space that few people know of, and even fewer visit… Would you believe me? Well, there is and it’s filled with palm trees, winding passageways and plenty of flowers. Cue: Kensington Roof Gardens , an oasis of calm in the heart of central London.

2024 update: The Roof Gardens are opened as of 2024 as a three-storey social club . The Private Members’ club is set to cost £1000 per year, with this being reduced to £500 for under 32s. Once the number of members exceeds 1500, the price will be £2000 per person. 2023 update: As of yet, there are been no recent announcements as to when the private member’s club might open. I really do hope that it will be open once more to the public in the future as I really enjoyed wandering around such a beautiful green space in the heart of the city! 2020 update: Though the Kensington Roof Gardens have been closed for several years, there is some hope that the beautiful London destination will be re-opened to the public at some point during 2020 in the form of a Member’s Club or fine-dining Restaurant.  2019 update: Unfortunately, the Grade II listed Kensginton rooftop gardens were closed to the public in 2018. After 37 years of operation (from 1981-2018), the space was officially closed to the public and there is no word as of yet as to when (or if) the beautiful garden will ever re-open.

Kensington Roof Gardens

The green spaces of Kensington Roof Gardens are separated into three distinctive themed and styled gardens. There’s a Spanish Garden, A Tudor style garden, and an English Woodland garden. All three are worth wandering through, though my favourite was most definitely the Spanish Garden.

There are small alcoves and benches situated throughout the garden. Sitting amongst the shrubs and flowering plants, it’s hard to believe you’re atop of one of London’s busiest high streets. After all, you can barely hear the traffic and you’re surrounded by plenty of greenery!

Spanish Garden. Styled on gardens in the Alahambra, this garden is filled with vine walkways, flower beds and Moorish architecture. At the top of the garden, there’s a covered and painted walkway running the length of the garden filled with comfy seats and sofas. It’s the perfect spot to sit, admire the gardens and enjoy a refreshing drink. Tudor Garden. This pretty little garden is characterised by its secret alcoves, hanging wisteria and archways. The garden also contains plenty of roses, lavenders and other sweet smelling flowers. English Woodland Garden. All streams and greenery, you’ll love wandering through this little piece of paradise set to the back of the three gardens. There’s a stream with bridge and ducks, four flamingos (yes, really), and over a hundred variety of trees.

History of Kensington Roof Gardens

Once known as Derry and Toms Roof Gardens, the gardens started out as a passion project atop of a former department store of the same name, Derry, and Toms. 

The gardens were founded in 1936 (3 years after the construction of the department store) and completed in 1938. The landscape artist in charge of the project was Ralph Hancock, a prominent garden landscaper of the time.

Altogether, the gardens cost £25,000- a considerable amount of money for the time. Visitors to the gardens were charged a total of one shilling each, with all proceedings being donated to local hospitals. During the thirty years which entry was charged, it’s estimated that around £120,000 was raised for local hospitals.

Since 1998, the Gardens have been Grade II listed by English Heritage, signifying their historical importance and worth to London and the rest of the UK. This listing makes it hard to change anything without express permission by the council and means that you’ll be able to experience the gardens much the same as people have for decades.

Overall, the gardens comprise of 1.5 hectares of land and the soil is many inches thick – 18 to be precise- perfect for growing all manner of plants and flowers.

Visit the Roof Gardens at Kensington and Tips to know before you go!

The Kensington Roof Gardens are located at 99 Kensington High St, Kensington, London W8 5SA. The terraced gardens are easily one of the best secret spots in central London and well worth a visit on any trip to the city! 

They’re free to visit and are typically open to the public throughout the day, as well as some evenings. The Gardens are occasionally closed to the public for private events, so it’s best to check opening times on the website prior to your visit! At the roof gardens, you’ll also find a luxury dining experience in the form of the Babylon Restaurant.

Approaching the lobby, I was unsure as to what to expect. I’d exited the tube station at High Street Kensington (the closest tube station to the gardens) and turned right, just as Google maps told me to.

You really can’t see the gardens from the high street so it’s a bit disorientating trying to try and locate the entryway. However, a peek of a shrub above one of the rooftops and I knew I was heading in the right direction…

Head into the lobby on a little side street off Kensington High Street and ask at the reception for visiting the Roof Gardens. If they’re open, you’ll be directed to an elevator covered with flamingos and ferns.

Get in the elevator and you’ll head up and up. Above the noise and above the hustle and bustle of everyday London life. Exit the lifts and head to the left. You’re here, in a little piece of paradise in central London. So sit back, enjoy a drink or simply wander the green alleyways…

Sophie Nadeau is a full time travel writer and photographer focused on cultural experiences in Europe and beyond. When she's not chasing after the sunset (or cute dogs she sees on her travels) she can be found reading, playing video games, and going on long hikes with her husband.

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http://www.virginlimitededition.com/en/the-roof-gardens it is close forever =/

Hello Sophie, I am very passionate about planting flowers and I always dreamt of planting flowers on my rooftop. Your awesome blog helped me a lot for the same. And finally, I planted many flowers in my rooftop and believe me it is looking like a real fairyland. Thanks a lot for your biggest help for making my dreams a reality. I truely appreciate your encouragement towards plantation and innovative ideas about rooftop planting. Thank you so much!!!!

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Kensington Roof Garden

London's oldest and best roof garden, still known to many as 'Derry and Toms Roof Garden', recalling the name of the department store which commissioned the garden. The garden covers 1.5 acres and are 100ft above street level. It has ponds, bridges, walks, trees, shrubs and sitting areas. The design style is somewhere between the Victorian Mixed Style and the Arts and Crafts style. There is an English Woodland Garden with nearly 100 species of tree, Spanish Garden with fountains and Walled Tudor Garden. The Roof Garden was owned by Sir Richard Branson from 1981 to 2018 and was open to the public for this period.

Address 99 High Street, Kensington, London, Greater London, England, W8 5SA

Opening times No longer open to the public

Website Visit the Kensington Roof Garden website

Nearby gardens

Nearby hotels

• The Academy (4.8 km away)

• Hotel Elstree (16.8 km away)
• Grim's Dyke Hotel (16.9 km away)

Nearby nurseries

• The Palm Centre (10.8 km away)
• Derek Lloyd Dean (14.9 km away)

• Cottage Garden Nursery (16.4 km away)
• The Vernon Geranium Nursery (18.0 km away)
• Beechcroft Nursery (18.8 km away)
• The Heather Society (18.9 km away)
• PJ's Palms and Exotics (20.8 km away)

A 3D modelled picture of Kensington Roof Gardens, taken on 11 April 2020, when the Derry & Toms building was covered in scaffolding. An added yellow-red border shows the extent of what is still Europe’s largest roof garden. Picture from Google Earth. Click to enlarge.

Refurbished Kensington Roof Gardens to become private club again

After having been closed since january 2018, refurbishment has begun of the kensington roof gardens, atop the former derry & toms department store on kensington high street (today housed by m&s and others). but access for the general public will be very limited, as its three gardens and various buildings once again will become a private members’ club, just as richard branson ran it from 1981 to 2001..

The gardens closed on 2 January 2018. when the lease Richard Branson’s Virgin had held for 37 years wasn’t renewed. Officially, Virgin chose not to renew, “ in the face of unpredictable market conditions and a challenge to remain profitable ”, but persistent rumours claimed that it was the freeholder (British Virgin Island registered Cartina Kensington Ltd, which via Lichtenstein-based Sirosa Anstalt is ultimately owned by the UK residing German property tycoon Henning Conle and his family) who refused to renew the lease although Branson was willing to even pay more in rent.

In July 2020, Sirosa sold a 15-year lease of the site, for an undisclosed sum, to Stephen Fitzpatrick’s company Imagination Industries Incubator, a daughter company to his holding company Imagination Industries, in which OVO Energy is the largest daughter company.

Bought by OVO Energy’s owner

Stephen Fitzpatrick is the founder and owner of both OVO Energy (which has grown to become the third largest consumer retail energy company in the UK) and electric aircraft startup Vertical Aerospace, which hopes to have its revolutionary VX4 eVTOL air taxi certified by 2025. So, the new owner of the roof gardens could be called the Richard Branson of the 21st century…

The site will be managed by Kensington RG Ltd, a daughter company to Imagination Industries that was created when the lease was bought. That company will run the member’s club and submitted a planning application to the council’s planning department in early January. The application, which was approved in May, is for a thorough restoration of the site, with the aim to restore some of it to its 1938 original.  However, the second floor on the main building, added in 2000, will remain.

The site is covered by three conservation listings: its trees have been protected by the council through TPO 26/75 since 1976 , the roof garden buildings received protection from Historic England in 1981, when the whole Derry & Toms was   Grade II* listed , and in 1998 the actual gardens received an additional Grade II listing from Historic England in its Historic Parks and Gardens register.

In the planning application, Kensington RG Ltd states that making it a member’s club (as it was from 1981 to 2001), “ will provide the business with a robust revenue stream, thereby allowing it to function with significantly lower footfall than in recent years, drawing its membership from both the local and wider area. ” That statement obviously refers to Virgin’s Babylon restaurant, that replaced the member’s club in 2001 and became a popular venue for wedding parties and corporate parties, which sometimes could become rather noisy and disturbing for residents living on nearby Kensington Square.

Local concern

A number of these residents objected to the new plans, but the RBKC planning department felt that the developer’s plan should be a clear improvement from the neighbours’ point of view, compared to situation during the 17 years that Babylon restaurant was operating, and during the three years (1978-1981) that the site was operated as a night club.

In a special management plan, accompanying the application, Kensington RG bends over backwards to assure nervous neighbours that they have nothing to fear. They state that the aim of the club is to create “ a community of interesting, inspiring, and intelligent individuals. Our goal is to provide them with a beautiful clubhouse within which they can work, collaborate, socialise, relax and exchange ideas.  

The space will have a cultural approach and aims to be the antithesis of an ostentatious Mayfair private members’ club. ” There will be “ weekly events, seminars, talks and panel discussions, lead by our Head of Culture. We aim to gather the world’s greatest speakers and thinkers around the table at KRG, affording our members access to some of the most exciting minds of our time. ” A special chapter in the management plan is devoted to noise control and another states that members arriving in their own cars will be advised not to park in the area, that members and their guests at closing time will leave at staggered times and be ushered up to Kensington High Street, as no taxis will be allowed to pick them up on Derry Street.

Public days planned

Although the site will normally only be available for the members, the new owners have in the application stated that they are positive to limited public access to the gardens at certain dates, perhaps in conjunction with London’s annual Open House Festival .

There is currently no date said for when the club will begin to operate, but it will probably not happen before late spring or the summer of 2023, as the refurbishment plans are quite extensive.

If you want to read more about the history of the fascinating Kensington Roof Gardens (once the largest roof garden in the world and still the largest in Europe), read our article from February 2018 , which tells about its conception in the early 1930s, the scary war years, the Biba years (1973-1975), and the unconfirmed tale about why and how Richard Branson acquired the site. The article also includes a wonderful drone video of the gardens, taken in 2013.

A few bushes at the top of the Derry & Toms building is the only thing visible from the street of Europe’s largest roof garden. Google Street View picture, taken in June 2022. Click to enlarge.

First published 02/08/2022

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Kensington roof gardens – secret london.

Posted By: Renegade Travels | Posted in: London , United Kingdom , Weird

Kensington Roof Gardens seem to be a bit of a secret, even among locals. It’s amazing how many people don’t know that they exist. But on top of a roof of a building on Kensington High Street you’ll find amazing roof gardens that allow free entry to members of the public. We visited a few days ago and here are a few photos we took. Go take a look for yourself.

When you’re on the roof gardens it’s amazing how quiet it is and how you feel that you might be out in the country and not in the middle of a busy city.

There is also an artificial stream that runs through one of the gardens, and this is where you’ll see the flamingos and ducks.

The Roof Gardens were originally designed and built in 1938 by Ralph Hancock.

The Roof Gardens are actually a series of four separate gardens – the Spanish Garden, Tudor Garden, English Woodland and Wildlife.

The Roof Gardens took two years to complete and cost £25,000. There are still seven trees that remain from the original garden.

The Roof Gardens were bought by Richard Branson in 1981 and the gardens and restaurant have been transformed into a beautiful space.

While the Roof Gardens are open to the public they are often hired for private events, so might be closed. You can call on 0207-937-7994, and they’ll let you know which days they are open on. For more into, see their website at The Roof Gardens .

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For our first three nights in London we stayed at 73 Suites , which is an aparthotel in Bayswater. You can see our review at 73 Suites Aparthotel, London .

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The London Local

The Insider's Guide To Visiting London

14 Secret Japanese Gardens in London & Best Roof Gardens

You know, Japanese gardens in London are some of my favorite places to visit. Filled with smaller secret flower gardens , those hidden gems in London make me happy anytime I spend a bit of time there. When it’s sunny, it’s even better, innit. I’ll also be talking about the most beautiful roof gardens in London here on this guide. There are many Japanese gardens in London , from the amazing Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park to the cute Japanese Garden Island at Regent’s Park. And they’re perfect to spot the cherry blossom in London, for one.

But the beautiful view of London that you can have on free roof gardens in London just takes the experience up a notch. In one of the gardens on this list, you can even spot peacocks in London ! If you’re looking for cherry blossom in London, too, those secret Japanese flower gardens and roof gardens are hopefully going to make you satisfied with life come springtime.

The Best Japanese Gardens in London

Today, we’re going to be all about secre t Japanese gardens in London. But not only. You probably don’t know that, but flower gardens in London are equally peaceful. And super instagrammable . If you’d like to spot cherry blossom in London, those are definitely gardens you’re going to want to visit ASAP.

Roof gardens, sky gardens, and secret spring gardens in London – I’ve listed only the best and most beautiful gardens in London . They also make for the best date ideas in London, like when you spend a moment in a deliciously instagrammable cafe in Chelsea ! Totally free, hidden gems in London, and picture-worthy all year round.

14 Secret Japanese Gardens in London And Beautiful Flower Gardens

Before we dig into this list of the most beautiful Japanese gardens in London and other amazing flower gardens, I’d like to share with you a few The London Local guides that you might really love if you love quirky and beautiful hidden places in London :

• Hampstead Cafes in London
• Tremendously cute cafes in London with cats roaming around
• A beautiful park in London with dinosaurs  
• Super romantic restaurants in London with a view

Those are all really amazing places to visit in London, not too famous, and just really peaceful . They’ve got nothing on beautiful Japanese gardens in London, but they’ve all got a quirky charm. Granted, you can’t see peacocks in London in those places . But, importantly, they’re a bit off the beaten path, so you can discover London like a local . Oh, and by the way, if you’re as interested in Japanese culture as I am, you might love to read all about the best Japanese shops in London – thank me later!

Japanese Gardens in London And Beautiful Flower Gardens

Who doesn’t like finding hidden places in London? I’m a sucker for them, and it seems like the best gardens in London are nothing like the ones advertised on popular travel websites . I like my botanical gardens in London. I like my secret little hidden places in London. I love getting off the beaten path and discovering romantic spots. Don’t you?

Japanese gardens in London are nothing if not the most romantic places in the city, or so I think. Especially if in them, you can see peacocks in London ! Aside from Japanese gardens, though, I’ll also be talking about very instagrammable flower gardens and stunning roof gardens in London. Why? Because they deserve all the hype they can, and since not many people know about them, you can really have a romantic date in London there. 

So, Holland Park Kyoto Garden, sky gardens in London, and amazing rooftop gardens, here we come!

Japanese Garden in London: Peckham Rye & Common

The first Japanese garden in London I’d like to mention is the Japanese Garden at Peckham Rye Park and Common , a beautiful park in South East London. One of the very beautiful Japanese gardens in London, if I may say so, and very much underrated . 

If you’re looking for nice parks in London to have a walk with your family or your significant other, that’s one to visit. I know that when we talk about Japanese gardens in London, we most often think of Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park , which I will mention down on this guide. But if you’re looking for a hidden gem in London, then Peckham Rye Park & Common and its beautiful Japanese garden will blow your mind. 

Although it’s a free garden, which you can visit all year round, you can imagine why I’d tell you to come see the cherry blossom in London at the Japanese Garden in Peckham Rye Park. For a breath of fresh air outside of the hustle and bustle of the city, that’s it. There’s everything you could ever wish for in this proper Japanese garden. A small secluded garden, a beautiful pond with a fountain, stunning wildlife, and, of course, the cutest cherry blossom trees in London. Calm and peaceful, well-preserved, one of the best hidden places in London to reflect on life. 

Japanese Gardens London: Hammersmith Park Japanese Garden

I’ll soon write a guide about the best spots to spot cherry blossom in London. And in terms of Japanese gardens in London, the Japanese Garden at Hammersmith Park really is a sight . Another hidden gem in London, and one of the flower gardens that will make you happiest when you visit. It’s really calm and soothing to walk at Hammersmith Park, a) because it’s really not crowded like Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park might be when the time to celebrate cherry blossom in London, and b) because it really feels like you’re outside of London.

Located in the borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, the London Japanese Garden at Hammersmith Park is a proper destination for two things. The first would be to really take a break from all the sightseeing and charity shopping in London you might have been doing up till now. The second would be to fill your Instagram feed with lots of pictures of the cherry blossom in London. Best believe lots of people come here during springtime at cherry blossom time , but Hammersmith Park has cherry blossom trees all around, so you won’t really bump into anyone.

It’s a perfect place to have a romantic date if you’ve been looking for date ideas in London. But if you’d like to take the kids roaming around and discovering wildlife as it resembles in Japan, the Japanese Garden is a hidden gem in London. A really family-friendly place, and one of the gardens to visit in London solo to just, you know, take a break and be yourself, centered and soothed. You could definitely have a moment there, and then come back slowly to the center to treat yourself to some amazing Japanese stationery – that would finish the day beautifully.

London Japanese Gardens at Kew Gardens

It’s no secret that Kew Gardens are one of the best flower gardens in London, now is it? But one of the best Japanese gardens in London is a hidden gem inside Kew Gardens . Romantically named Japanese Landscape at Kew Gardens, the Japanese garden needs a bit of walk inside the botanical gardens to be reached. And a bit of travel on the Tube, innit, since Kew Gardens are set in the beautiful village in London Richmond.

What’s really cool about hidden places in London is that they all boast a rich history, like Holland Park Kyoto Garden. Well, at Kew Gardens, you can find the Chokushi-Mon, which, translated in English, means the ‘Gateway of the Imperial Messenger’. This gate was a present to Kew Gardens, and it’s been there since after its presentation in the 1910 Japan-British Exhibition. This gate is the replica of a temple gate in Kyoto , so it’s even more interesting than just being part of one of the most beautiful Japanese gardens in London.

Japanese Gardens in London: Kew Gardens Atmosphere

There are three parts in this Japanese garden: a garden of peace, a garden of harmony, and a garden of activity. They are the evocation of a Japanese tea garden, of elements of nature, and of Japanese mountains . So yeah – visiting Japanese gardens in London is amazing and calming. But when there’s so much history tucked behind, they instantly become even more beautiful than all the roof gardens in London. Yes, even the Crossrail Place Roof Garden , and even the Garden at 120. 

Oh, and if you’re a real Japanese lover, there’s a Japan festival that takes place at Kew Gardens . With the beautiful Japanese Landscape in the background, you can attend Japanese artistic and cultural events. The Japanese garden becomes lively and colorful, really all in all one of the most beautiful flowery Japanese gardens in London.

Japanese Gardens in London: Kyoto Garden in Holland Park

Amongst all the beautiful gardens to visit in London, Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park have got to be one of the most famous. I’ve spent lots of time there, as it’s one of the free flower gardens in London . All you need to do is take the Tube to Holland Park, and you’ll reach this London Japanese garden in no time. 

From the station to Holland Park itself, you just have to walk a few minutes. And you’ll pass by some of the poshest areas in West London. Colorful Notting Hill and Hampstead Heath have got nothing on this area, where the streets are not that colorful, but certainly just as luxurious.

Japanese Gardens in London: Kyoto Garden Nature

In terms of Japanese gardens in London, Kyoto Garden in Holland Park gives off an otherworldly vibe. If you’d like to spot the cherry blossom in London come March and April , that’s definitely one of the best flower gardens in London to do that. There are beautiful stone sculptures there, and a waterfall that makes it one of the most stunning spring gardens in London. Ah, and, have you ever thought you could see peacocks in London? That’s the place! 

When I was a makeup artist, I came to do makeup on models and photoshoots at Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park many times. After all, no other London Japanese garden resembles Kyoto Garden. That’s definitely one of the hidden places in London that is still very kept secret , although it’s advertised so much on social media. It’s the first of the Japanese gardens in London I ever visited, and wow. Beautiful, peaceful, the very place for cherry blossom and peacocks in London, I mean – it doesn’t get any better than that.

Japanese Garden Island at Regent’s Park

Now, the Japanese Garden Island in Regent’s Park is, I feel, one of the most beautiful flower gardens in London. And very much underrated, given that few people know about it. I’ve been to the stunning Regent’s Park more times than I can remember. This is one of the best Japanese gardens in London, and both locals and tourists make it a priority during the weekend to visit it. Large and well-preserved, it goes without saying that Regent’s Park is one of the very flower gardens in London to visit as soon as you get the chance. 

It gives off a very family-friendly atmosphere, and it feels like a little city inside, with large paved roads on which many cycle. The Japanese Garden Island is exactly what you wish Japanese gardens in London would look like , much like Kyoto gardens in Holland Park, or the Japanese Landscape at Kew Gardens. 

Japanese Gardens in London: Nature at the Japanese Garden Island

If you love waterfalls, stone sculptures, and wooden bridges like the ones you’d find in Japanese gardens in Japan, by all means, visit the Japanese Garden Island. This is a spot to laze about and observe the world moving around you at the time of cherry blossom in London. It’s really close to Fitzrovia and other really posh areas, so everything about Regent’s Park looks like a dream come true.

The first time I went to the Japanese Garden Island, I felt this was without a doubt one of the most beautiful flower gardens in London, and definitely a hidden gem . I love all kinds of bridges in London, and I love anything that comes to Japanese food . Most importantly, I love bettering myself and my mindset every single day. So, you can understand why hearing the water flow and the wind in the flowers and trees would make me happy. If you can’t go as far as Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park, this London Japanese garden is truly one of the very best date ideas in London . 

Japanese Gardens in London: Japanese Roof Garden at SOAS University

Well, I’d say that this is one of the best hidden places in London when it comes to Japanese gardens in London . The Japanese Roof Garden is one of the roof gardens in London, as its name suggests, and it’s located on top of the SOAS University of London. How cool is that, to be able to relax on roof gardens? I’ve always loved places to see the view of London, and this is one of the cutest free gardens in London.

If you’re looking for a proper Japanese garden in London, the Japanese Roof Garden is perfect to step back from the bustling city. It’s all stone, and there are not many flowers there, if not for the blossoming wisteria. That makes the SOAS roof garden very different from other Japanese gardens in London . Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park or the Japanese Garden at Peckham Rye and Common Park are very centered on nature, for instance.

Japanese Gardens in London: SOAS Japanese Roof Garden Nature

The SOAS Japanese Roof Garden in London is different from any other Japanese garden in London as it’s really very stoney, without too much “nature” in it. Opened in 2001, it is evocative of forgiveness . I love how philosophical Japanese gardens are, bringing a bit of humanity to the fast-paced London. 

The Japanese Roof Garden is surely one of the best sky gardens in London, allowing for meditation and contemplation . If you’d like to host a reception or an exhibition, it’s possible to do so in this roof garden. It’s also one of the free gardens in London, open to the public during the Brunei Gallery’s opening hours. Do visit when it’s time to relax under the cherry blossom in London if only to take a break from Central London!

Temple Gardens: Japanese Gardens in London at Langley Park

Temple Gardens is the last of the Japanese gardens in London I’ll mention on this list of the flower gardens in London. However, do stick around, as I’ll talk about stunning roof gardens and secret gardens that you’ve probably never heard of before . Or, if you have, you should still definitely visit them, especially if you’re a lover of hidden places in London.

Temple Gardens at Langley Park are located further away from Central London than all the other London Japanese gardens I’ve mentioned above, in Iver. If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path spots to see the cherry blossom in London , this definitely is one of the spring gardens that you’ll love. And for hopeless romantics, it’s one of the perfect date ideas in London for whoever really wants to cut themselves from the world. 

Why not, for instance, prep a full day out walking in Temple Gardens with a picnic and your other half? Since all the famous Japanese gardens in London garner ever more attention with each passing year, I mean. That’s the moment to discover other stunning flower gardens in London, like Temple Gardens in Buckinghamshire . I promise it’s not that far! You could make it a day visiting designer outlets in London , and driving or taking the train to Langley Park Temple Gardens. As far as secret gardens in London go, you can only feel your true self there. Perfect spot to relax under cherry blossom trees!

Stunning Flower Gardens & Roof Gardens in London

Roof gardens in london: crossrail place roof garden at canary wharf.

Now we’re going to be moving on to the most beautiful nature and flower gardens in London. I’ve already mentioned the Crossrail Place Roof Garden in London in my guide to the very cool things to do in London this year . Located in Canary Wharf , one of my definite favorite places in London, the Crossrail Place roof garden is one of the very unexpected sky gardens in London . It’s beautiful, it’s peaceful, and it’s full of trees and plants that you’ve probably never encountered before. A lot of exotic plants, too . All you need to do is go up to the top of the Canary Wharf Shopping Centre , and you’ll be on one of the most stunning roof gardens in London.

And what do we do when we’re in sky gardens? We stare at the view of London, duh! 

First of all, this might be a different vibe than at Japanese gardens in London , but its greenery is stunning . Amazing first date idea , too. Take a break from the fast-paced city, enjoy your packed lunch there, or maybe a takeaway with delicious Japanese dumplings from Rainbo Food? The Crossrail Place roof garden is nothing but a hidden gem in London, and I think anyone you ask would tell you the same thing. 

And it’s not just one of the best free gardens in London. It’s also a place open until 9 pm, so you can definitely take your date there. Take some pretty pictures, stare at the London views , at the stunning skyline cutting up from the sky… Yup – one of the best roof gardens in London. There’s just no other way to put it. 

Roof Gardens in London: The Garden at 120

One of the most beautiful roof gardens in London, the Garden at 120 is located in Central London. To reach it, you just need to walk a few minutes from Leadenhall Market , one of the super famous landmarks in London. It used to be a hidden gem in London, but Leadenhall Market has garnered so much popularity on social media that more people visit it now . It still remains one of the super local hidden places in London, if I may say so . 

Why? Because Leadenhall Market is situated between London Bridge and Liverpool Street. And Liverpool Street really is one of the places in London frequented by Londoners coming and going from work, it’s not that much of a tourist attraction in London.

Roof Gardens in London: The Garden at 120 Atmosphere

That’s why the Garden at 120, on Fenchurch Street, is still one of the best roof gardens in London. Because you won’t find large crowds staring at the view there, so it’s still one of the best date ideas in London . Very different from Japanese gardens that I’ve mentioned before, as in, the Garden at 120 is definitely a peaceful place to see the view in London . But the greenery there is very different, and obviously more paved, since you’re in one of the roof gardens in London. 

It’s free to access, and if you’d like to see the sunset in London from a different perspective than stunning Primrose Hill or Hampstead Heath, markdown the Garden at 120. Since it’s completely free to access and you can spot stunning views of London , I’d say that’s just one of the best roof gardens in London, and overall still a peaceful place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

Eltham Palace and Gardens

A little waterfall park in London would do wrong to no one looking for peace in the city, right? Ah, well, we’re moving from roof gardens to secret gardens in London with Eltham Palace & Gardens! Located in South East London in Greenwich, this art deco mansion is one of the views in London that you really can’t miss. Love finding a hidden gem in London here and there? The Eltham Palace is it . Granted, it’s not one of the free gardens in London. But within the entry fee, you can visit the beautiful medieval castle, an aqueduct, and just peaceful lakes in London. Small lakes, but lakes all the same. 

Very different from what you’d find in a Japanese garden in London or one of the roof gardens, innit? But with the sunken rose garden and stunning waterfalls, we can’t get any better in terms of English History . Because yes, that’s one of the gardens to visit in London if you’re a history lover. Henry VIII used to live at the Elham Palace!

Ah, and since I’m a huge coffee shop lover, as you may have seen when I talked about stunning independent coffee shops in Covent Garden , there’s the quaintest cafe in Eltham Palace. So in addition to visiting one of the most secret gardens in London, Eltham Palace will also gift you with a peaceful coffee moment. 

Hyde Park Rose Garden

It’s no secret that Hyde Park is one of the most beautiful flower gardens in London at this point. But have you ever heard about the Hyde Park Rose Garden ? Because it’s a thing, and being able to spend time at a spot that looks straight out of Alice in Wonderland… I mean, does it get better than that, even if you’re visiting roof gardens in London? I guess not.

For the lovers of the Hampstead Heath Pergola , finding one at the Hyde Park Rose Garden will make you very happy. I’ll give that to you, the Hyde Park pergola is much smaller, and it’s much less of a secret garden in London than Hampstead Heath is. Although Hampstead Heath is not that much of a secret garden anymore, but located so far on the Northern line that it remains one of the very local gardens to visit in London. 

Flower Gardens in London: Hyde Park Rose Garden

One of the things to note about the Hyde Park Rose Garden is the scent of the roses and all kinds of flowers mixing to give off the most romantic atmosphere. So if you’re looking for date ideas in London , you should think of the rose garden at some point. During spring, to spot the cherry blossom in London, Hyde Park is a favorite of Instagram influencers. And during the summer, it just gets one of the best gardens in London to spend some time reading in the grass or just chill with friends. 

I remember looking for free places in London to study the first year I moved to London, in 2019. Hyde Park quickly got out as one of my favorites, as it’s so wide and lively. Looking for a hidden gem in London? You’ve got the Rose Garden right there, and you’re going to be happy you’ve taken the trip to Hyde Park , which is, Winter Wonderland or not, one of the most beautiful parks in London . 

Fulham Palace Garden

For lovers of secret gardens in London, Fulham Palace is your next destination . It’s huge and completely free to access, so for a romantic walk and a picnic, do mark it down on your must-visit list! Far from any famous London attractions, the Fulham Palace gardens offer a peaceful retreat just minutes away from the center on the Tube. The Thames River is not too far, so you could basically visit Fulham Palace gardens and then walk back down to the Tate Modern and stunning Millenium Bridge (the one that we spotted in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince – yes, I’m a Potterhead through and through).

Like the beautiful Japanese gardens and roof gardens in London, Fulham Palace is peaceful and romantic . Whether you’re looking for cool things to do with kids in London or are, like me, a freelance writer in search of quiet places to work and study in London … Fulham Palace gardens are it. Former home of the Bishops of London, it’s just… stunning . And I mean, why not let inspiration come to you while you’re sitting on one of the beautiful benches, surrounded by greenery? 

Fulham Palace Cafe in London

The Drawing Room Cafe surely is one of the most peaceful places to grab a coffee in London. Grab a bite, a delicious cup of joe, and you’ll forget you’re just minutes away from the city. And that’s why I love London so much because it’s full of villages like Stoke Newington , Notting Hill , and Hampstead that take away the feeling that you need to hurry to do just about anything.

You’ve pretty much understood me, Fulham Palace gardens are, like pretty roof gardens in London, a peaceful place to relax on your day off or during the weekend. Or during any day of the week, really, especially for lovers of hidden gems in London. Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park have nothing on this piece of history, and that’s a fact. 

De Beauvoir Rose Garden

Ah, well, having lived in Mile End and Bethnal Green in East London for years, I spent lots of time in Hackney, around Victoria Park.It’s an artsy place where many students go to study in London, and many artists meet to discuss their next projects. And there, in Hackney slash Islington , you’ve got one of the most beautiful flower gardens in London, the De Beauvoir Rose Garden.

De Beauvoir Town is one of the hidden gems in the city, and that’s also one of the spots to witness cherry blossom in London. It’s a time of the year I’m always very much expectant of, because cherry blossom trees, guys. Yes, even if you’re not in Japanese gardens in London like Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park. De Beauvoir Rose Garden is located there, in that quaint little village in London, all quiet and different from any other free gardens in London . As the name suggests, you’ll find lots of roses there, and it smells good, and it’s beautiful.

It’s most definitely one of the very local spots to have lunch during your break. But if you’re living around Bow Church, Mile End, Hackney, or Bethnal Green , you know. Just have a walk to De Beauvoir Rose Garden. It’ll reset you for the upcoming week , probably as much as a moment in Japanese flower gardens or roof gardens in London. 

Kensington Roof Gardens

Although I’ve talked about some of the most beautiful roof gardens and Japanese gardens in London here, I feel like the Kensington Roof Gardens are something out of this world. Something really different, especially since it’s both one of the most beautiful roof gardens in London, and a flower garden. And completely free . So basically, all you need to do is take the tube to South Kensington, and you’ll be super close. And needless to say, the Kensington Roof Gardens are one of the most secret gardens in London. I’ve always loved this area, and the fact there are many amazing cafes in South Kensington really plays a part in that.

There’s a restaurant up there, something private and very posh, like restaurants in Mayfair, for instance. At the Kensington Roof Gardens in London, you also have events like weddings and parties taking place. And it looks a bit like a Japanese garden, but an English vibe , if that makes sense. Although the gardens are free, it’s worth calling ahead to know whether you can visit, due to all the private events hosted at the Kensington Roof Gardens. 

There used to be flamingos there , like – live flamingos in the center of London, but they’ve been moved to a Natural Park in Norfolk. Still, I mean – that’s one of the most stunning and well-kept sky gardens in London, and there’s just no other way to say it. Where else can you find gardens structured as precisely, with fauna and flora that beautiful?

Japanese gardens in London like Kyoto Garden or the Japanese Landscape at Kew, most probably. But they’re not roof gardens in London, and they don’t provide a view of London so breathtaking.  You could definitely have a stop at a South Kensington coffee shop before going up to the roof garden and have a delicious dinner with a view of London . That’s an option that boasts all the charisma and romanticism we all need sometimes.

There you have them, all the beautiful – stunning is the word! – Japanese gardens in London. I’m in love with anything that touches color, so you can understand why spending time at flower gardens in London would make me feel centered and satisfied with life. Same reason why I spend so much time roaming around the best cafes to work in London around Shoreditch or sipping hot cups of tea and artisan coffee in Covent Garden .

Why spend time in Japanese flower gardens and roof gardens in London?

I like my peace and quiet, and as a blogger and freelance writer, what’s better than observing life happening and stopping in secret gardens in London ? I don’t really see what could be more peaceful than a break from the city at Kyoto Garden in London, or some stunning flower gardens like the very secret Fulham Palace Garden. I’d still say that being able to see peacocks in London at the Holland Park Kyoto Garden is an experience you’ll never have anywhere else in the city.

I love nature and to feel like I do belong in this world, and that everything keeps evolving, like when I visit cafes in Stoke Newington . All stopped, all quiet, yet lively. Very philosophical, I know . But any of the Japanese gardens in London are nothing but a hidden gem in London. If you’re looking for a place to spot the cherry blossom in London, almost any of these will do.

What now on The London Local?

However, if you were just looking for roof gardens in London, then, well, no cherry blossom there. However, they’re perfect for seekers of cool date ideas in London . Crossrail Place roof garden at Canary Wharf, for one, will always be one of the secret gardens in London I admire . From there, you can see the full view of London , feeling like you’re on top of the world and disconnected from all. Is there anything better than Japanese cherry blossom and roof gardens in London? I think not, folks.

If you love discovering hidden places in London and quirky things, I suggest you take a look at those London guides: 

• Beautiful Hampstead Heath Pergola and Hill Gardens
• Underrated, fun things to do in London for all thrill-seekers
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Until next time!

PS. Did you know that you can get real Italian coffee in London ? Like, authentic, like in Italy!

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Going Out | Events and Things To Do

Kensington Roof Gardens set to be restored to its former glory by early 2020

Kensington Roof Gardens , one of ­London’s best-known party venues, is set to reopen as a “world class” restaurant or members’ club by early 2020.

Virgin announced in January that it was closing the Grade II listed site, best known for its flamingos and lavish receptions, after it fell into losses. However, the landlord of the former department store, which is topped by the 1.5-acre gardens, has begun a global search for an operator to restore the venue to its former glory.

Thomas Rose, from property agent Cushman & Wakefield, has been in talks with potential successors to Sir Richard Branson’s company from all over the world. He told the Standard: “It is a truly unique space. We want it to be a destination to celebrate London, something we can be really proud of. There is really nothing else quite like it in Europe.”

The firm hopes to draw up a shortlist of potential new operators by Christmas, and name the successful bidder early next year. The plan is for the Roof Gardens to reopen in late 2019 or early 2020, Mr Rose said.

The site at 99 Kensington High Street consists of the sixth and seventh floors of the former Derry & Toms store. It includes the Babylon restaurant, a nightclub and bar housed in an art-deco former tea pavilion, and three distinct gardens: the Tudor courtyard, the Spanish garden and English woodland.

The gardens have more than 70 mature trees, including fully grown oaks and fruit trees and a flowing stream. They had fish, ducks and four resident flamingos, which have been transferred to a sanctuary.

Celebrity guests who have partied there over the years include the Duchess of Cambridge, Madonna, Kate Moss and members of the rock band Queen.

The gardens were laid out by landscape designer Ralph Hancock between 1936 and 1938. They were taken over by Virgin in 1981, and given a Grade II listing in 1998.

The current landlord of the building is German property company Sirosa, owned by the wealthy Conle family.

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Welcome to Kensington Gardens

Once upon a time, this park was the private playground of the nobility. 

Dreamed up by Queen Caroline in the 18th century, these celebrated gardens were originally part of Kensington Palace. Today, they are open to everyone – no longer exclusive, but still extraordinary. 

You are invited to explore the historic tree avenues, majestic vistas and blossoming flower walks where generations of writers and artists have set their imaginations free. Follow in their footsteps, and you might just meet the park’s most famous fictional resident – Peter Pan, the boy who wouldn’t grow up. You can find him down by the Long Water, keeping company with the swans and ducks.  

As you wander through the park, prepare to be enchanted by world-renowned landmarks like the imposing Albert Memorial, a testament to grandeur and remembrance. Nearby, the iconic Italian Gardens beckon with their symmetrical beauty and cascading fountains, a serene retreat within the bustling cityscape. For our youngest visitors, The Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground awaits, where imaginations soar aboard a sturdy wooden pirate ship, charting imaginary seas of adventure.

Perhaps you’re looking for a bit of peace and quiet? The meandering flower walks on each side of the park offer a tranquil place to sit and admire fine horticulture. There are wilder expanses, too, where the park’s biodiversity flourishes in meadows alongside veteran trees - living relics of the park’s historic past. In these spaces, it’s hard to believe you’re in the middle of a city. 

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• Kensington Roof Gardens, 99 Kensington High St

Kensington Roof Gardens

The Roof Gardens can be on your route by default, the guests' recommendation is to visit this club. You can always enjoy tasty duck , seafood and fish at Kensington Roof Gardens . It's nice to order good champagne or delicious wine . You will be offered great tea or good coffee .

This place is famous for its great service and friendly staff, that is always ready to help you. In accordance with the visitors' opinions, prices are attractive. You will certainly appreciate the lovely atmosphere and cute decor. Google users awarded this spot 4.3.

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