The Garden Museum — Where Nature and History Bloom

A Museum Rooted in Beauty

Nestled beside Lambeth Palace on the South Bank of the Thames, the Garden Museum is one of London’s most peaceful and inspiring cultural sites.
It celebrates the art, history, and design of gardens — from royal landscapes to humble backyards.

Set within the former Church of St Mary-at-Lambeth, the museum is both a place of reflection and a celebration of Britain’s deep connection to nature.

From Church to Garden Haven

The museum was founded in 1977 by garden writer Rosemary Nicholson, who discovered the tomb of John Tradescant, gardener to Charles I, in the churchyard.
Determined to save the church from demolition, she transformed it into the world’s first museum dedicated to gardening.

Today, the museum tells a story that spans centuries — exploring how gardens reflect society, creativity, and our relationship with the land.

Exploring The Garden Museum
1. Permanent Galleries

The museum’s permanent displays trace the evolution of gardening in Britain — from early tools and botanical illustrations to modern garden design.
Highlights include portraits of historic gardeners, rare horticultural artefacts, and models of famous landscapes.
In addition, interactive exhibits invite visitors to explore garden planning and planting.

2. Temporary Exhibitions

The museum’s changing exhibitions showcase garden art, photography, and contemporary design.
Past shows have featured Virginia Woolf’s garden inspiration, Lucian Freud’s plant studies, and modern ecological design.
Therefore, every visit offers a fresh perspective on nature and creativity.

3. The Gardens and Courtyard Café

Outside, the museum’s Cloister Garden and courtyard café are highlights in themselves.
Designed by Dan Pearson, the gardens feature vibrant planting schemes inspired by British landscapes.
Meanwhile, the café — often praised as one of London’s best — serves seasonal dishes made with locally sourced produce.

Learn more at the Garden Museum official website

A Sanctuary in the City

The Garden Museum is more than a museum — it’s an urban oasis.
The combination of historic architecture and contemporary design creates a tranquil atmosphere.
Furthermore, its tower offers panoramic views of the River Thames and Westminster, rewarding those who climb its 131 steps.

It’s a place to pause, learn, and be inspired by nature’s quiet power.

Visiting The Garden Museum
How to Get There

Address: 5 Lambeth Palace Road, London SE1 7LB

By Tube: Lambeth North (Bakerloo line) or Westminster (Jubilee line).

By Bus: Routes 3, 77, 507, and C10 stop nearby.

By Train: Waterloo Station, 10-minute walk.

Opening Hours & Admission

Open daily, 10.30am–5pm. Entry ticket required; discounts available for students and seniors.

Facilities

Café and gift shop

Step-free access and lifts

Guided tours and workshops

Riverside seating area

Nearby Attractions

Lambeth Palace: Historic residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Tate Britain: British art masterpieces just across the river.

Victoria Tower Gardens: Peaceful green space beside Parliament.

Imperial War Museum: Insight into history and resilience.

Together, they form a charming Thames Riverside Heritage Trail.

Why Visit The Garden Museum?

The Garden Museum offers a refreshing perspective on British heritage — one rooted in beauty, craftsmanship, and connection to the natural world.
It’s a celebration of how gardens reflect culture, creativity, and care.

Whether you’re a gardener, designer, or simply seeking calm in the city, this museum is a haven for inspiration.

It’s not just about plants — it’s about people, passion, and the timeless art of cultivating life.