New London Architecture

Secret Gardens of the City – Walking Tour

Tour

Saturday 26 July 2025
14:00 - 16:00

Join Sarah Brierley for a walking tour discovering the secret gardens of the City of London. Delightful spaces enjoyed by people & wildlife.
The Square Mile is full of surprises. Perhaps you might imagine only cobbles, concrete, glass and steel covering the ground, but in fact the City of London is home to approximately 376 open spaces totalling 32 hectares. This include parks, gardens, churchyards, plazas and planters! 

These beautifully-maintained, small, high quality open spaces are highly valued by workers and visitors alike and offer an important resource for wildlife and biodiversity in the Square Mile. We will explore a selection of these delightful gardens, whilst learning about the events in history that have led to their creation.

Visit the ruins of Wren churches destroyed by the Great Fire of London and the Blitz in 1940-1941, which have been recreated as glorious gardens. Learn about London’s thriving wildlife, including an active beehive. We will also show you hidden corners of the City where peaceful courtyard gardens provide shade and solace. You'll love the beautiful planting, which has caused these gardens to be described as "jewels dropped over the City”…and just immersing yourself in nature is a joy.

This walk is led by Sarah Brierley, City of London Guide - Institute of Tourist Guiding Green Badge Guide.

Key stops: Postman’s Park, Guildhall Yard and Fen Court

Duration: 2 hours approx.

Speaker biographies

Sarah Brierley

City of London Guide - Institute of Tourist Guiding Green Badge Guide, Six in the City


Conservation & Heritage

#NLAConservation

MEETING POINT

Outside St Paul’s Underground Station exit, on Cheapside next to Cafe Nero

TOUR GUIDE

ACCESS

The route is step-free and wheelchair-friendly, though some areas may have uneven pavements and narrow passages. If you have any questions regarding the route, please reach out by emailing events@nla.london

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