More than ever before, Spring and Summer’s arrival is much longed for. As the days start to show signs of lengthening and the persistent rain begins to ease, we feel the time is right to highlight a few of the London venues at which we work that have gardens at their heart – leafy gems that are perfect for parties, celebrations and weddings in the sunnier months to come.
Fantastically located opposite the Houses of Parliament and adjacent to Lambeth Palace, the Garden Museum combines charm and atmosphere thanks to being located within a former church. With a tranquil garden that can accommodate up to 100 standing guests and the central Nave offering a medieval backdrop to dinners and receptions, this wonderful venue must make your event shortlist and we would be happy to show it to you.
The Chelsea Gardener in SW3 typifies the expression leafy gem, transforming from chic urban garden centre into an elegant event space for evening parties. Larger events take place in the spacious showroom or amongst the plants and trees in the charming outside area which is well protected and can seat up to 150 guests. The jewel in the crown is the Orangery, designed by David Salisbury, which offers a truly intimate and elegant setting for smaller receptions and dinners and can be combined with the garden to create an urban oasis in which to entertain your guests.
The Chelsea Physic Garden has played host to BWoM events for well over a decade and is an inspiring and beautifully secluded space – the oldest botanic garden in London. From April until the beginning of October, a marquee can be placed on the lawn, almost as if you are in your own home. Here, you will be surrounded by a fascinating array of medicinal plants which your guests can wander amongst at their leisure, soaking up a very special, meditative atmosphere. As wedding venues go, we can’t think of a dreamier leafy setting in which to celebrate saying “I do” and the BWoM planning team can help you make the most of this beautiful garden.
On the other side of town in Clerkenwell you can find the Museum of the Order of St John which is dedicated to telling the story of the ancient religious military order and whose principal charitable foundation, the St John’s Ambulance, is known to us all. The Cloister Garden, with its fragrant lavender, herbs, roses and ancient olive tree, makes the prettiest setting for a drinks reception which can be followed by a seated dinner in the panelled splendour of the Chapter Hall for up to 120 guests.
Of course, this is just a handful of venues with outside spaces and there are many more to consider on our list of venue partners. We would be very happy to make suggestions based on your event requirements and to organise a reconnaissance trip to view a shortlist.
Get in touch to start the exciting journey towards your spring-summer event!