So I’m about to head back to London. Unfortunately missing the garden tour de force of the month, or should I say the year? Do I actually need to mention the Chelsea Flower Show by name at all? Lucky for me London is a big city and there are other things to explore. Here are some but a few alternative London garden experiences, May, 2022.
CHELSEA IN BLOOM
Running from 23-28 May, Chelsea in Bloom is an alternative floral art show in the heartland of the Chelsea Flower Show. How great to be able to walk around for free checking out retailers, restaurants and hotels adorning themselves with creative designs. This is an actual competition so expect to see some show-stopping displays. 2022’s theme is ‘British Icons’ and draws inspiration from the characters, symbols and emblems across the United Kingdom in preparation for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee taking place the following week.
BROOKWOOD CEMETERY
Over the years have been to London several times. How come I’ve missed, not even heard of, the Brookwood Cemetery? Really haven’t got a clue. Think it might be about time that I go exploring the largest cemetery in Western Europe. As I’ve said before, as morbid as it might sound, I find many cemeteries great garden experiences. Brookwood Cemetery is a Grade 1 listed site in the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens located in Surrey, in place since 1854. This 220 acre park sounds like an all day affair.
RED CROSS GARDEN
This is another garden with a long history that was recently brought to my attention. Red Cross Garden is an award winning open space restored to its original Victorian layout in 2005. It was built along with its neighbouring cottages in 1886. Designed by Octavia Hill (1838-1912) a social reformer and one of the three founders of The National Trust this park was her flagship project and at the time Red Cross Garden demonstrated the importance of improving housing for the poor and the need for meaningful occupations for poor workers.
