Open:

Sunday 10:00–17:00

Description:

This little-known, peaceful garden lies between the river and the hubbub of Fleet Street within the historic precincts of the Inner Temple.

Parts of the garden date back to the time of the Knights Templar, when it was principally an orchard, and there are still unusual fruit trees to be seen.

There is a legend that the Wars of the Roses began after an encounter here, commemorated by the roses planted in the Long Border. The High Border, on either side of the 18th-century gates, has recently been replanted and is notable for the refreshingly different colour combinations, carefully chosen and placed so that each plant complements its neighbours.

Other features include a peony garden, a brass Queen Anne sundial, a statue by van Ost, extensive lawns and a broadwalk lined with mature plane trees along the Embankment boundary.

Many writers have lived in the Temple, including Charles Lamb, Charles Dickens, William Thackeray and Harold Nicolson. The courtyards of the Temple can be explored, where barristers have their chambers and where smaller pockets of greenery and plantings can be found.

Head gardener:

Andrea Brunsendorf

Activities:

Plant sale

Entrance:

Crown Office Row, via Tudor Street security gate.
Nearest postcode: EC4Y 7HL
Sells tickets.

Buses:

388 + 4, 11, 15, 23, 26, 76, 172, 341

Stations:

Blackfriars (if open), Embankment (1km)

Dogs:

Working assistance dogs only

Conditions:

Professional photography by prior arrangement.

Further information:

• Street Map
• Map of nearby gardens
• Visitors' comments
• Garden's web site
• Printable version