An annual showcase of London’s most secret gardens took place on 6 and 7 June 2026 across the city. This highly anticipated event was thoroughly organised by the London Parks & Gardens Trust. Visitors could access 120 gardens that are usually closed to the general public, among them members’ gardens, community gardens, hotel gardens, and more.

Some of the highlights of the spectacular programme were the Temple Gardens in the legendary barristers’ quarter in the City of London. Middle Temple Garden boasted its roses in full bloom, mentioned by none other than Shakespeare in Henry VI. Visitors could marvel at the manicured grounds from the Garden Café, sipping tea and enjoying a plum crumble. Master’s Garden in Temple was also open, with gardeners selling plants at the entrance and all proceeds going to a cancer charity. Inner Temple Garden was particularly well presented, with a board detailing its history at the entrance, alongside pollinator pictures, plant samples, and a full list of plants — a gem for any horticulturalist.

The Ham Yard Hotel in the heart of Soho welcomed London Open Gardens guests to its spectacular rooftop garden, where they grow an impressive variety of vegetables: tomatoes, pak choi, beans, courgettes, and many more on raised beds. The garden also has active beehives and is tucked away behind a fragrant hedge of jasmine.

Another remarkable rooftop was to be found in the City of London at the Garden at 120, offering 360-degree views across the capital. With plenty of seating beneath a pergola and a small fountain providing a calming focal point, it made for a wonderful spot to pause and take in the view.

Eaton Square Gardens had a live band playing to set the tone for the day. Despite the rain coming down in torrents, the atmosphere was joyful. There was a tea and cake stand, and plenty of opportunity to admire the striking sculptures dotted throughout the gardens.

Cadogan North Garden impressed visitors with a series of gardens within a garden, including a charming walled garden with a sundial at the entrance, the perfect spot to pop the question or perhaps discuss politics.

Gloucester Square Garden had a wonderfully inventive way of celebrating its famous residents: chairs dedicated to notable figures placed throughout the garden. One honours Georgina Landermare, private chef to Sir Winston Churchill; another is dedicated to Samuel Harvey Twinning, the celebrated tea merchant whose blend we still enjoy today.

Among the Notting Hill gardens were crescent gardens such as Stanley Crescent Garden, storybook settings like Rosemead Garden made famous by the Notting Hill film, and grand lavish spaces such as Ladbroke Square Garden.

It was a wonderful experience: a celebration of beauty, a moment of calm, and a chance to discover some of the finest cultural curiosities this city has to offer. We would like to thank the London Parks & Gardens Trust for such an incredible day.