The City’s gardens are a
living witness to London’s fascinating past – in fact many of
them only exist as a result of the destruction caused by two
key historical events - the Great Fire of London of 1666 and
the Blitz of 1940-1.
Following the devastation of the Second World War, a decision
was made by the City of London to create new gardens as well as
rebuild offices and homes. The bombed-out remains of Wren churches,
such as Christchurch Greyfriars and St Dunstans-in-the-East, have
been transformed into secret havens where people visiting the City
can escape from the bustling crowds.
There has also been a tenfold increase in the number of gardens
and landscaped areas in the City during the past 30 years - new
building developments in the City must make a positive contribution
to their environment and many trees, flower beds and water features
have been created as a result of this.
Many of the older gardens in the City have their own unique
history. The rotunda garden at West Smithfield lies over an area
which in ancient times was used for jousts, tournaments and
executions. Finsbury Circus is the oldest public park in London,
dating from 1606, and Postmans Park is home to the famous Watts
Memorial, which celebrates Londoners who gave their lives saving
others.
Further information on the history behind our gardens can
often be found on the garden’s noticeboard – or you can find
out more at the Museum of London or
Guildhall Library.