A winter’s day in a Sky Garden. Doesn’t that sound just swell? All you have to do is to head to 20 Fenchurch Street in the City of London, join the queue, go through airport security (not quite but not far off), get in the lift and 35 floors later you are there. The visit is free, but you need to book your ticket in advance.
What to make of this garden? You come out of the lift and the first thing to see is a mesmerizing view of south London. That would include a close up of The Shard. If you are so taken by this experience, head to the bar, grab a drink, sit down and soak it all up. Some people choose to get a drink and stroll around. Due to inclement weather the outside terrace was closed during my visit. Pick a fine day for you visit.
For further explorations head left or right. And up the stairs. The view every step of the way will blow your mind. 360° and all too. The Barbican, Tower of London, Wembley Stadium (on a clear day) and MUCH more will be at your feet. And on the horizon.
Also known as the Walkie-Talkie building, 20 Fenchurch Street was designed in 2004 by world-renowned Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly. The Sky Garden was designed by award-winning landscape architecture practice Gillespies. To fit the ultra modern space, the plantings comprise a variety of drought-resistant Mediterranean and South African species. Agapanthus and Kniphofia can be found side by side with huge ferns and various herbs. There’s a green vibe all year round.
Visiting the Sky Garden won’t disappoint. I would recommend management, however, to water the plants in the entrance on the ground floor. First impressions matter, miserable plants do not send out the right message.
