Garden Escapes in London

Are you are going to London for the 2012 Olympics?  London is crowded and noisy at the best of times and you may need to take a break from the hustle and bustle. Two of my favourite restorative spots are hidden in the centre of London.

The Barber Surgeons' Garden

If you’re feeling stressed the fragrances in this garden will be a soothing delight. There has been a garden here since 1555. Originally planted as a physic or medicinal garden by the Barber Surgeons Company it was restored in 1987. Today it has conventional formal and informal areas plus 45 small plots displaying medicinal herbs and plants used from medieval to current times.
It is right next to the Museum of London where refreshments can be obtained, or bring a picnic. Close by are St Paul’s Cathedral, the Barbican Art Gallery and the Old Bailey courthouse.
Location: Monkwell Square off Wood Street. A short walk from St Pauls or Barbican Underground Stations

 Christchurch/Greyfriars Church Garden

Full of shrub and climbing roses, I make a point of visiting this garden each time I am in London. A church was established here in 1225 by the Grey Friars monastic order. Only a tower (private residence) now remains from a second church built after the Great Fire of London. The rose garden established in 1989 follows the floor plan of the earlier church with low box hedges representing the original position of the pews, trees outlining the nave and ten wooden towers, draped with climbing plants, following the line of roof pillars. Just a note: Ghosts are reported to haunt the garden at night. True or not there is an air of mystery about this garden but it gives off nothing but peaceful vibes. Location: On the corner of King Edward and Newgate Street, opposite St Paul’s Cathedral, a few minutes from St Paul’s Underground Station.