The small group
travel experience
Just 12-24 Guests, GuaranteedConnect with us
- Information & Reservations
1-888-370-6765
Mon-Fri 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST 
-
The small group
Just 12-24 Guests, Guaranteed
travel experience- Information & Reservations
1-888-370-6765
Mon-Fri 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST
Odysseys’ Hidden Gems: London’s Secret Garden
Posted October 31, 2016Imagine finding a tranquil garden hidden within the bustling city of London. However, this is no ordinary garden, when you step through the arches of greenery you will feel as if you stepped back in time – to the year 1100 to be exact.
For those on our “Journey through Britain” small group tour, who have time at leisure to explore London, we suggest a trip to this garden sitting amidst the ruined arches of the gothic-style church of St. Dunstan-in-the-East. Tucked away on a secluded side street halfway between the Tower of London and the London Bridge, the garden comprises overgrown ivy and wall climbing flowers.
Originally built in 1100, the church has survived numerous tragic events. The Great Fire of 1666 caused a lot of damage to the church, but it was patched up and topped with a steeple designed by Sir Christopher Wren, one of the most highly acclaimed English architects in history. Unfortunately, in 1941, the church was destroyed by the Blitz during the Second World War; the north and south walls and the steeple were the only sections left standing. Although the rest of London was rebuilt, the church was left untouched, but in 1967 the City of London Corporation decided to turn the remains of the church into a public garden.
Now, you will find locals reading in the shade, listening to the soothing sounds of the fountain, or admiring the flowers.
Entrances can be found via Idol Lane and St Dunstan’s Hill. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. or dusk, if earlier.
Photo 1 courtesy of Flickr.
Photo 2 courtesy of Flickr.
- Seven-time honoree
- Travel + Leisure's
- World's Best
- Tour Operators
- awards
- Ranked #2
- Best Group Tour
- Company
- 10 Best Reader's
- Choice poll
- First-time honoree
- Condé Nast Traveler
- World's Best
- Tour Operators
- awards
© Odysseys Unlimited
2023 All Rights Reserved
