Discover hidden horticultural histories, secret spaces and pioneering people through the 2025 London Open Gardens Walks and Tours programme, all supporting the charity which protects London parks. Designed for garden lovers, history buffs and the curious of all ages, expert guided tours offer an optional extra for those buying one ticket to visit 110+ secret green spaces during London Open Gardens (LOG) on 7th & 8th June.

The 30 fascinating guided walks and cycle tours with experts are available to book from 10am Wed 30th April at londongardenstrust.org but places are limited and always sell out fast! (A LOG ticket from £10-£24 must be purchased before booking a Walk or Tour. Full details below, incl. children go free!)

These tours will uncover secrets ranging from the City of London’s rich fashion history, from the must-have Roman raincoat to the unspoken dress codes that govern the financial sector today, take in former agricultural gardens in Notting Hill and explore 900 years of St Bartholomew’s Hospital.

Highlights include:

Black History Garden Walk: an interactive outdoor talk exploring the African/Caribbean history between three gardens in the Bloomsbury area. From ancient Africa to Nelson Mandela and Black British Civil Rights, led by guide Tony Warner.

Stirring the City: Coffee and the Rise of London’s Power. Discover how a simple cup of coffee transformed the City of London. A fascinating 90-minute walk from the site of London’s first coffee house. Led by TEDx speaker Chris MacNeil.

On the Trail of the Great Fire of London: from the site where the fire ignited on Pudding Lane in 1666, the tour will trace the path to where it finally ceased on the disreputable Pye Corner. Led by Sabrina Budalica.

Gaining Greenspace – parks of Kennington and Vauxhall: Discover some of the capital’s lesser-known green spaces which have provided pleasure for the masses including ancient land and modern microparks. Led by Peter Brown.

Surprising Southwark: Meander through an often overlooked part of London, visiting gardens and a churchyard while uncovering forgotten stories from south of the river. Led by Andy Catto.

City Gardens: Ruins, Trees and Peace: Visit some of the most famous City Gardens in the ‘square mile’ including the roof top of 120 Fenchurch St. Led by Laura Marzec.

Cycle Tour – Sky-High and Down-to-Earth Gardens: Join a group cycle tour exploring elevated and grounded green spaces. You’ll visit stunning rooftop gardens before descending to visit historic burial sites. Led by Philip Benstead. 

A weekend of green discoveries
London Open Gardens, now in its 26th year isn’t just about seeing beautiful places, it’s about understanding and protecting the green heritage which has made London liveable throughout history. London Open Gardens Chair Nathan Oley said:

“What better way to celebrate our blooming city, it’s history and garden pioneers than to join a tour of discovery which will help to fund the protection of London’s green spaces for future generations. London Open Gardens is a celebration of the capital’s green lungs and our charity’s commitment to protect them, and everyone is welcome!”

About London Open Gardens

From historic courtyards to rooftop oases, these hidden gems show off the city’s verdant side, normally hidden behind fences, gates and private walls. A much-loved annual event, LOG raises funds to help protect London’s parks, gardens, squares and hidden green spaces from a range of threats. These essential spaces protect nature, improve the air we breathe, and enhance our lives, our health and culture.

Run by the charity London Parks and Gardens, London Open Gardens weekend unlocks the gates to the lesser-seen private spaces which enrich London’s landscape.

The popular Walks & Tours programme complements the unique opening of 100+ gardens by offering ticket holders a chance to dive deeper into London’s fascinating stories.