Shhh… Would you like to know a little life-saving secret?
How to enjoy family days in London, without breaking the piggy bank? Well, step this way to discover hidden green, pristine and serene rooftop gardens, completely free to wander around! Slices of paradise that’ll enchant your kids, save money AND your sanity!
Here’s the collection of keys that unlock London’s secret rooftop gardens for free kid-friendly fun!
It’s a well-known fact that London’s skyline is adorned with architectural marvels, but did you know many are hiding lush and leafy scenes that soar high above the bustling streets below? Oh yes, we’ve heard of Sky Garden, which is certainly worth a visit; popular, picturesque and situated on the iconic ‘Walkie Talkie’ building. But, that’s a place that really needs no introduction.
So, to save you any digging, we’ve unearthed the top 3 free secret rooftop gardens for your family to discover! Let’s instead wander along a lesser-known, yet beautifully blooming path…
Key 1: Unlock London’s largest public rooftop space at The Garden at 120
Image Credit: The Garden at 120
Situated atop the 15th floor of 120 Fenchurch Street (in fact, just up the road from Sky Garden) The Garden at 120 boasts 85 wonderful Wisteria plants, which in bloom have lovely lilac bunches of petals. Let your little ones capture the stunning sights on offer with sweeping panoramic views of London’s iconic landmarks, that previously won them the City Skyline Award. This oasis spans 15,000 square feet, featuring a wide array of fantastic flora, amidst a meticulously landscaped environment, which is pretty impressive! Immerse your family in the tranquillity of nature, above the hustle-bustle, while gazing upon the ever-evolving city below.
Oh, and the good news is that you can be as spontaneous as you like and turn up on the day, if that’s how you and your family like to roll! It may be closed over Bank Holidays, but with no ticket or booking required for groups less than 12, there are many chances to enjoy The Garden at 120 that will welcome you with open ‘palms’.
Key 2: Find this secret garden gem, sparkling high above London’s spectacular cityscape at the Post Building Rooftop
Image Credit: The Post Building
Nestled in the heart of the city, this stylish 7,500 square feet rooftop garden on the 9th floor of the Post Building offers a serene escape from the urban hustle. And here’s another secret: It’s open not just for the tenants of the buildings to enjoy but the public, too! This emerald gem of a garden gives you gorgeous greenery and cosy seating areas, providing a perfect spot to unwind and soak in the sights of London’s skyline. At this great vantage point, have fun spotting its five most historically rich neighbourhoods. See breath-taking Bloomsbury to the North and in the South, over the inviting scents of the herb garden, catch a view of Canary Wharf and beyond!
Get into the relaxed holiday mood amongst the part-English country garden, part-cruise liner deck design, that seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with natural elements. You can remain worry-free without rushing around or brushing shoulders up here, too. The clever design also offers sleek smaller seating areas and private sections. Inspired by The Rockefeller Centre in New York, it really does create a peaceful ambiance for all. At last!
Key 3: Soak up free kid-friendly fun at gorgeous Greenwich Park
While not technically a rooftop garden, Greenwich Park offers such a high up and heavenly view, it wins as far as family fun is on agenda… Can you spot the River Thames and Canary Wharf? How many famous landmarks can you see? There are quite a few for your little London-Explorers to learn about and admire!
This historic park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and features meticulously landscaped gardens, ancient trees, and sprawling lawns. Another way to save a fortune on lunch in London, is to enjoy a leisurely family picnic here during the warmer weather. There are a multitude of perfect picnic spots your kids can decide upon! Preparing your homemade family hamper in advance could build the fun excitement before your big day out… Why not try making and baking some British favourites, such the Queen Elizabeth sponge cake, classic Ploughman’s cheese scones or smoky pork and paprika sausage rolls? Greenwich Park may well become your family’s top picnic spot!
Have fun hopping over the world’s Eastern and Western hemispheres, across the Greenwich Prime Meridian line. You can discover more right in the middle of the park, too, by purchasing tickets to the wonderful world-famous Royal Observatory.
As you can see, London’s secret rooftop gardens not only offer a vibrant visual feast but also serve a slice of paradise for everyone in your family! They offer a welcome break to recharge your batteries by giving you the feeling of being unplugged from the daily humdrum, that can quickly take its toll – how refreshing! Whether you seek a serene escape or a stunning view of the city, these rooftop gardens really highlight London’s harmonious blend of urban culture and natural beauty where you can indulge in both!
So, next time you are wandering through the busy streets of London with a tired Tinkerbell or Tarzan in need of a pick-me-up, don’t forget to look towards the dreamy clouds above…
There might just be a hidden emerald green leaf waving from a pristine piece of architecture. See it pointing towards a blooming garden ahead ready to enchant your little ones with fairy dust! Now you have the keys to unlock London’s secret rooftop gardens for free kid-friendly fun, and moments of much-needed calm. There’s only one thing left to wonder: Which elevated Eden will you wander to next? As they say,
Wander Often… Wonder Always.
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