The Museum’s garden was created in 1980. At its heart is a knot garden designed by the Museum’s President, The Dowager Marchioness of Salisbury (who was then also re-making the gardens at Hatfield House, Hertfordshire). The reason for the seventeenth-century spirit of the design is that our garden also houses the tomb of the great plant-hunters, gardeners and collectors, John Tradescant the Elder (c.1570-1638) and Younger (1608-1662), the rediscovery of which originally inspired the creation of a museum of garden history in the deconsecrated, and then derelict, church of St Mary-at-Lambeth.

The knot garden and its surrounds are planted with species introduced by the Tradescants - such as the scarlet runner bean, red maple and tulip tree - and many others grown by them in their Lambeth garden. It is not only historically significant but also a lush and beautiful spot in the centre of London, cared for by a small horticultural team of staff and volunteers.

You can read more about the Tradescant tomb here

Matt Collins is our Horticultural Consultant and can be contacted on matt@gardenmuseum.org.uk

Our current Horticultural Trainee, Aoife Power, has created a blog. For a behind-the-scenes look at the work that goes into maintaining our gardens, and her traineeship experience

VENUE HIRE

Situated by the River Thames and next to Lambeth Palace, The Garden Museum provides the perfect location for wedding receptions, corporate events, parties and celebrations.

The Museum’s garden provides a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of central London and is an ideal setting for a pre-dinner drinks reception or a barbeque.

The Garden’s focal point is the beautiful 17th Century inspired knot garden, which creates the perfect romantic setting for wedding photography.