The Garden Museum

The Garden Museum is one of my London favourites. On the opposite side of the river to the Chelsea Physic Garden, on the South Bank, it is probably the garden equivalent of Gelupo for me in the city - a place I can keep returning to and which I enjoy every time. You needn’t visit for a specific exhibition - there is also a lovely cafe. If you are planning on eating, it’s a good idea to book - but if you just fancy a glass of vino or a cuppa and it’s a nice day - you shouldn’t struggle to get a place to rest and recharge.

The Garden Museum is one of those London gems which seems to still be under the radar (I first discovered it in 2013, and the same is true today). Even though it is right near all the action! If you are spending time on the South Bank, just walk on from Westminster bridge, pass St Thomas’ and carry on down towards Lambeth Bridge. It’s a little set back from the river, and a bit tucked away - so keep an eye out for it.

The Garden Museum was the first restaurant I visited in 2021 during Lockdown, when we were allowed to eat out again. Karin and I met up for a glass of rosé in the spring sunshine. It was one of those charmed London days - and we were beautifully coordinated - pink wine surrounded by pink tulips! Juliette and I met up a year later for lunch at the cafe and a wander around the exhibition. It is really one of my happy places - and I’m so lucky to have friends and family alike who love it as much as I do.

Tip: If you book for a meal and the weather plays along, sit in the courtyard. It is really special.