Discovering Wonders of the Wild in London's Green Sanctuaries
Discovering Tranquility in London's Hidden Gardens
In the heart of a bustling city, London offers more than just towering skyscrapers and bustling streets. Nestled amidst the concrete jungle, you'll find a network of hidden gems - gardens that serve as sanctuaries from urban life. These green spaces are not just beautiful, but they also contribute significantly to our wellbeing.
Spending time in these green spaces can lower stress hormones, reduce blood pressure, and improve mood, as well as contribute to overall wellbeing. Regular visits encourage gentle movement, cleaner air intake, and a chance to boost vitamin D levels.
London's hidden gardens and parks are the perfect places for reflection and restoration. Intentionality is key when visiting these gardens. Early morning visits provide a more peaceful experience with beautiful morning light, while late afternoon visits offer golden hour light but may be busier.
Some of these hidden gems include the Camley Street Natural Park near King’s Cross, a two-acre nature reserve with grassland, woods, and wetlands. It provides a quiet green escape near a busy transport hub, including a charming café for relaxation.
St Dunstan’s in the East, a bombed-out church turned public garden near Tower Hill tube station, is another example. Its historic ruins combined with lush greenery, a fountain, and seating create a peaceful lunch or resting spot amid the city.
The Onion Garden near Victoria Station and St James’s Park, a revitalized hanging garden filled with over 200 species of plants, also functions as a cultural hub with art, poetry events, and craft workshops.
Shad Thames in Bermondsey, primarily a historic cobblestoned street along the Thames with vibrant riverside bars and subtly green spaces, offers a quieter riverside stroll away from tourist crowds.
The Italian Gardens, hidden between Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, designed in the 1860s, are known for their elegant fountains and peaceful waterscapes.
These spaces offer a respite from urban life by providing quiet, secluded environments often hidden from the main tourist trails. They offer natural greenery, water features, and wildlife habitats that contrast with the concrete and bustle of the city. Opportunities for leisurely walks, contemplation, and cultural events in a tranquil setting are also available.
The practice of 'forest bathing' or shinrin-yoku, while not possible in dense forests in London, can still be experienced through its parks and gardens. Bringing a notebook or sketchbook can help retain memories while promoting a more contemplative experience.
Visiting London's gardens with a friend who shares your desire for quiet reflection can be beneficial. Resist the urge to document every moment on social media during your visit to the gardens. Instead, immerse yourself in the sensory experiences that can help calm the mind and allow for mindful reflection, disconnecting from phones and laptops.
The city of London has numerous hidden gardens and lesser-known parks that serve as sanctuaries from urban life. The London Gardens Society and borough council websites highlight seasonal events and lesser-known locations worth exploring. The Kyoto Garden in Holland Park features a waterfall, koi pond, and meticulously maintained plantings that change with each season.
These gardens are meant to inspire readers to live a slow, simple, soulful, and sustainable lifestyle. They offer opportunities to reconnect with nature and oneself in the busiest cities.
[1] Camley Street Natural Park [2] St Dunstan in the East Church Garden [3] The Onion Garden [5] Italian Gardens
Incorporating the practices of slow living and forest bathing, these hidden gems ofLondon, such as Camley Street Natural Park, St Dunstan in the East Church Garden, The Onion Garden, and the Italian Gardens, offer tranquility amidst the urban landscape. They invite home-and-garden enthusiasts to immerse themselves in their natural beauty, fostering a connections with nature and promoting a relaxing lifestyle.
