Gardens through time: City of London layers

Discover hidden gardens shaped by centuries of change, where layers of London’s history quietly unfold. From ancient Roman remains to soaring glass skyscrapers, witness how past and present stand side by side in this remarkable urban landscape.

Step into tranquil green spaces tucked away from the crowds, where you can pause and experience a different rhythm of the city. These unexpected oases offer a refreshing contrast to London’s busy streets and reveal a softer, more intimate side of the capital.

This tour is especially rewarding in the summer months, when the gardens are in full bloom, and it’s perfect for capturing beautiful photographs along the way.

• Barbican Centre - a unique brutalist residential complex and cultural hub built in an area completely destroyed during WWII. The concrete structures are brought to life by gardens, fountains and lakes with water lilies and other aquatic plants.

• Christchurch Greyfriars Church Garden - The ruins of this Christopher Wren church have been turned into a flower garden that is particularly enchanting in spring and early summer when flowers are in bloom.

• Reflection Garden We have a look at one of the newest gardens in The City with a reflection pool, creating a double view of St Paul’s dome mirrored in the water. This is the moment to snap some great photos!

• London Mithraeum - We will descend below modern street level to explore the ruins of an ancient Roman temple through an immersive experience. This experience is free, but we would have to wait a little until the short tour starts. This stop takes around 1h.

• St. Dunstan in the East Church Garden - Another ruin of a church that was turned into a garden, but very different from Christchurch Greyfriars. The place looks magical in all seasons and its Gothic appearance makes a great background for your holiday pics.

• The Garden at 120 - This is the City of London’s largest public rooftop space. Situated on the 15th floor, it offers 360° views of the London skyline.

  In order to go up to the garden we would have to queue up for about 15-20' and go through an airport style security check.

  While the whole visit for this site will take around 40', guests can choose to stay longer in the garden and enjoy some downtime.

Meeting point: Barbican Station exit

End point: The Garden at 120

IMPORTANT:

We will take a public bus between some of the stops so please make sure you have an Oyster card or a contactless bank card for the journey.

As we would enter several places during the tour, please message me before booking as some of them might change their opening times.