Hidden Courtyards and Secret Gardens of London
London is full of hidden courtyards and secret gardens that many people walk past without noticing. If you love discovering peaceful spots away from the crowds, let me take you on a tour of some of the best. These tucked-away green spaces offer a quiet escape from the city’s noise and reveal a different side of London that most people never see.
St. Dunstan in the East Church Garden
One of my favorite hidden places is St. Dunstan in the East, a church turned public garden. Located between London Bridge and the Tower of London, this spot is easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. The church was heavily damaged during the Blitz in World War II, and instead of rebuilding it, the city decided to transform the ruins into a garden. Today, ivy climbs the crumbling walls, and benches sit where pews once stood. It’s a strange but wonderful feeling to sit there, surrounded by the sounds of trickling water and birdsong, while the skyscrapers of the financial district loom just beyond the walls.
Neal’s Yard
Next on the list is Neal’s Yard, a tiny, colorful courtyard in Covent Garden. This place feels like it was plucked straight out of a fairy tale. The buildings are painted in bright blues, pinks, and yellows, and the air smells like coffee and essential oils from the nearby shops. It’s a popular spot for Instagram photos, but even with the crowds, it feels intimate. I love grabbing a coffee from one of the cafés here, such as 26 Grains, and watching people come and go.
The Seven Dials
If you’re near the Strand, don’t miss The Seven Dials. This area is named after the seven streets that radiate from a central pillar with sundials. While it’s not exactly a secret, the small courtyards and alleys that branch off from the main streets are easy to overlook. I accidentally stumbled upon one of these hidden corners, and it felt like stepping into a different era. The cobblestone streets and old-fashioned lampposts make it easy to imagine what London might have looked like centuries ago.
Kyoto Garden
For a more traditional garden experience, head to the Kyoto Garden in Holland Park. This Japanese garden is a serene oasis in the middle of West London. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a tranquil pond filled with koi fish and a waterfall that drowns out the noise of the city.
Postman’s Park
Another spot that feels like a well-kept secret is Postman’s Park, located near St. Paul’s Cathedral. This small park is home to the Watts Memorial, a wall of ceramic tiles that commemorates ordinary people who died while saving others. It’s a quiet, reflective space that feels worlds away from the nearby tourist hotspots. I sat on a bench there, reading the stories on the tiles and feeling a deep sense of respect for the people they honored.
St. Luke’s Mews
If you’re exploring the area around Notting Hill, make sure to visit St. Luke’s Mews. This charming cobblestone street is lined with pastel-colored houses and feels like something out of a movie (in fact, it was featured in Love Actually). At the end of the mews, there’s a small garden with a few benches where you can sit and admire the view. It’s a peaceful spot that feels like a hidden corner of the city, even though it’s just a short walk from the bustling Portobello Road Market.
The Phoenix Garden
One of the most surprising places I’ve found is The Phoenix Garden, tucked away behind Shaftesbury Avenue. This community garden is a haven for wildlife, with ponds, wildflowers, and even the occasional fox. It’s hard to believe that such a lush, green space exists just steps away from the theaters and crowds of the West End.
Lincoln’s Inn Fields
For a taste of history, visit Lincoln’s Inn Fields, one of the largest public squares in London. Established in the 17th century, it’s named after the nearby Lincoln’s Inn, one of the four Inns of Court that have trained barristers since the Middle Ages. The gardens in the center, designed in the 19th century, feature a mix of formal layouts and open lawns, providing a peaceful retreat. Historically, the square was a site for public executions and gatherings, but today, it’s a quiet space surrounded by historic buildings, including the Sir John Soane’s Museum.
The Garden at 120
Finally, no list of hidden gardens would be complete without mentioning The Garden at 120. This rooftop garden on the 15th floor of the One Fen Court building offers stunning skyline views. What I love most about it is how unexpected it feels. You step off the elevator and suddenly find yourself in a lush, green space with fountains, trees, and plenty of seating.
Final Words
London’s hidden courtyards and secret gardens are a reminder that there’s always more to discover, even in a city you think you know well. These spaces offer a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and find a moment of peace. I’ve been lucky enough to explore many of them, and each one has left a lasting impression. So, next time you’re in London, take a detour, turn down a quiet street, and see what hidden treasures you can find. You might just stumble upon your own secret garden.
Mandy is a luxury travel, fine dining and bucket list adventure journalist with expert insight from 46 countries. She uncovers unforgettable experiences around the world and brings them to life through immersive storytelling that blends indulgence, culture and discovery, and shares it all with a global audience as co-founder of Can Do Travel. Her articles appear on MSN and through the Associated Press Wire in major U.S. outlets, including NBC, the Daily News, Boston Herald, Chicago Sun-Times and many more.
