More than 100 green spaces which are normally off-limits to the public will open their gates this summer for a series of walks and tours.
The London Open Gardens Walks and Tours programme kicks off this June, with 30 guided walks and two cycle tours led by experts running from June 7 to 8.
Discover the roots of the rag trade, follow the trail of The Great Fire of London and explore African Caribbean history from the swish squares, gardens and rooftops that usually lie under lock and key.
Designed for garden lovers, history buffs and the curious of all ages, these tours uncover secrets hidden behind hundreds of the capital’s green spaces.
Highlights include Gaining Greenspace, where walkers will discover the lesser known parks – from ancient land to modern microparks – of Kennington and Vauxhall, led by Peter Brown.
Meander through Southwark gardens and churchyards while uncovering forgotten stories from south of the river, or brush up on your Black History with an interactive outdoor talk exploring African- Caribbean history from ancient Africa to Nelson Mandela and Black British Civil Rights.
Across the river, Stirring the City: Coffee and the Rise of London’s Power, will take visitors on a 90-minute walk from the site of London’s first coffee house to explore the story of the hot drink that transformed the capital.
Elsewhere, trace the route of the 1666 Great Fire of London from Pudding Lane to Pye Corner.
Tea, cakes and various other refreshments are available at many of the gardens — along with the chance for a nice sit down. Some gardens also offer live music and the chance to buy produce.
From historic courtyards to rooftop oases, these hidden gems show off the city’s verdant side, normally hidden behind fences, gates and private walls.
London Open Gardens Chair Nathan Oley said: “What better way to celebrate our blooming city, its history and garden pioneers than to join a tour of discovery which will help to fund the protection of London’s green spaces for future generations.
“London Open Gardens is a celebration of the capital’s green lungs and our charity’s commitment to protect them, and everyone is welcome!”
London Open Gardens, now in its 26th year, aims to encourage visitors to understand and protect the green heritage which has made London liveable throughout history.
All proceeds from the weekend of outdoor activities will go towards London Open Gardens, the charity which protects London’s parks and green spaces.
The 30 guided walks and cycle tours with experts are now available to book at londongardenstrust.org but places are limited and always sell out fast.
Tickets are priced from £10 to £24 with children going free. Full details of each guided walk can be found here.
Pictured top: Discover the hidden gardens of Bankside at London Open Gardens 2025 (Picture: Diana Jarvis)
