Guide to the Best of Britain

National Garden Scheme

The city is home to stunning green spaces, with Hyde Park, Green Park, and St. James’s Park topping the list. But don’t overlook The Regent’s Park with its Queen Mary’s Gardens and Open Air Theatre, where classic plays are performed during the summer months. Tucked-away Holland Park pleases with its romantic Holland House ruins, peacocks, and British Saddleback pigs busily rooting away to restore an overgrown meadow. And flower fans will want to visit Sunday morning’s Columbia Road Market in the East End to browse the endless array of greenery for sale and enjoy the charming shops and cafes that line the surrounding alleys and courtyards.

For assistance finding the perfect garden to visit, check out Britain’s National Garden Scheme. Every year, NGS publishes the “Yellow Book,” with over 3,700 gardens listed nationwide. Most are privately owned and only open a few times per year, but nearly all of the proceeds benefit charities. With a tradition of opening gardens of “quality, character, and interest,” the NGS is the perfect tool to plan your British garden tour.