London Open Gardens is an annual event held in June, giving us a rare chance to step through private gates and discover beautiful, little-known places, the ‘secrets’ of the city that become temporarily public during the event.

Today, DOYOUSPEAKLONDON brings you the top highlights from the unforgettable 2025 edition!

London Open Gardens

London Open Gardens is an annual June event organised by the charity London Parks and Gardens. It offers a rare access to over 100 private and tucked-away green spaces across the city.

From elegant garden squares to secluded courtyards and leafy rooftops, it’s a unique chance to explore London’s hidden natural gems that are usually closed to the public.

This was my first time taking part in the event, and I felt incredibly lucky to explore some amazing hidden spots, which I’m excited to share with you now!

It’s good to know that all the money raised goes directly towards supporting the charity’s mission to protect and promote London’s historic green spaces. They want to make sure they continue to thrive and stay accessible for everyone, both now and for generations to come.

25 Cannon Street Rooftop

This was one of those unexpected “wow” moments. Hidden high above the city buzz, the 25 Cannon Street rooftop revealed itself as a peaceful green haven.

Normally reserved for office occupants, this beautifully designed space was opened to the public for just one day during London Open Gardens. Such a rare treat!

I couldn’t get over the panoramic views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the surrounding skyline, including The Shard and the City. It felt like a secret garden floating above London. Definitely one of my favourite surprises of the weekend!

To complement the rooftop terrace, open to the public just once a year via London Open Gardens, don’t miss the Reflection Garden (see above, by day and by night) at ground level.

Designed in 2022 by renowned landscape architect Tom Stuart‑Smith, it features a tranquil reflecting pool perfectly framing St Paul’s Cathedral. This is one of my favourite London spots for photography!

Bunhill Fields Historic & Wildlife Garden

I was genuinely surprised by this spot. Once a burial ground, it is now a peaceful haven for wildlife. 

Birds hop through the trees, bees buzz around the flowers, and you can really feel the history all around you!

It’s the final resting place of literary greats like William Blake and Daniel Defoe, making it feel both deeply historic and quietly alive.

A must-see for book lovers, history buffs, and anyone who enjoys wandering through places with real soul!

The Aga Khan Centre

The Aga Khan Centre really blew me away! It’s such an amazing piece of architecture and feels like a calm little oasis right in the middle of bustling King’s Cross!

Designed by renowned architect Fumihiko Maki and opened in 2018, it beautifully bridges cultures, with Prince Charles and the Aga Khan IV there to mark the occasion.

The building hides six stunning Islamic-inspired gardens, across rooftops, terraces, and courtyards, each echoing the traditions of Morocco, Persia, Spain, and India. A peaceful thread of green woven into the city. I found this place absolutely stunning!

The best part? You can visit this place year-round on guided tours! A rare chance to experience Islamic-inspired design in a stunning modern setting!

Ham Yard Hotel rooftop terrace

The Ham Yard Hotel Terrace is seriously something special. 

Imagine a hidden rooftop garden that feels like a little slice of Provence, with olive trees, colourful flowers, fresh herbs, and yep, they even have a beehive buzzing away up there! 

I was instantly drawn to this spot because I’m such a huge fan of the French Provence vibe. To feel that same warm, relaxed atmosphere right on top of a hotel in the heart of Soho felt both surreal and absolutely delightful.

It’s usually only open for exclusive events, which makes it feel even more like a secret treasure. If you ever get the chance to visit, trust me, it’s totally worth it!

Battersea Power Station residential rooftop terrace

The Battersea Power Station residential rooftop feels like a secret woodland in the sky, packed with thousands of plants that make it this amazing green escape above the city. Quite amazing, right?

Plus, the views? Absolutely stunning.

You’re literally right behind the iconic Battersea Power Station itself, with jaw-dropping views of those famous four chimneys towering right in front of you.

It’s such a unique spot, open only once a year and to a lucky few through a special ballot, so if you ever get the chance, it’s definitely something you won’t forget!

Markham Square, Chelsea

Markham Square in Chelsea is like finding a hidden gem tucked away from all the hustle.

It’s this peaceful, Victorian-era garden square that feels straight out of a storybook, with big, mature trees and gorgeous flowerbeds everywhere you look. 

Such a calm little oasis, perfect for escaping the city buzz. The locals are lucky to have this hidden paradise in the heart of Chelsea!

Barbican Wildlife Garden

The Barbican Wildlife Garden on Fann Street is one of those places you’d never expect to find in the middle of the City.

Tucked just behind the Barbican, it feels like nature quietly doing its thing right next to all the concrete and office buildings. It’s not huge, but it’s full of charm and totally worth a wander if you’re nearby.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this personal highlight from the incredible London Open Gardens event!

If you missed it this time, no worries! Some of these spots can be visited throughout the year, or simply save this post for next year’s event and get ready to explore some of the most beautiful hidden gardens in London!

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To go further:

London Parks and Gardens website here.

Reflection Garden: 25 Cannon St, London EC4M 9AF

Bunhill fields historic & wildlife garden: 38 City Rd, London EC1Y 2BG

Aga Khan Center website here. Address: 10 Handyside St, London N1C 4DN

HamYardHotel website here. Address: 1 Ham Yard, London W1D 7DT

Battersea Power Station website here. Address 44 Electric Boulevard, London, SW11 8BJ

Markham Square: 12 Markham square, London, SW3 4UY

Barbican Wildlife Garden website here. Fann St, Barbican, London EC2Y 8BR

Check out my other summer recommendations in and around London here.