Barnsbury Wood is a little hidden gem in Islington and the smallest local nature reserve in London. The site was originally the garden of a house built in the 1840s. Left to nature, this hidden woodland has become home to a range of wildlife including the long-tailed tit, lesser stag beetle, common toad and the 16-spot ladybird. The wood is owned and managed by Islington Council and opens to the public on Tuesday afternoons (and on Saturday afternoons in summer, thanks to community volunteers). At other times, school groups use the site for environmental education sessions.
An iconic contemporary building designed by Japanese architects Maki & Associates, which opened in July 2018. The building includes six hanging gardens that represent key elements of classic Islamic garden design. PREBOOKING ONLY.
Two-acre garden laid out in 1810-12, remaining close to its original design. Sections devoted to plants from New Zealand and medicinal herbs. Children's play area; tennis court.
A hidden central London gem on the site of Charles Dickens' house, designed by architect Sir Edwin Lutyens and planted extensively with medicinal herbs. Guest speakers will discuss where nature meets art and architecture. Café open.
