William Morris, one of the most influential figures in the Arts and Crafts movement, lived at Kelmscott House for the last 18 years of his life. He wrote: ‘The garden is most beautiful…The situation is certainly the prettiest in London.’ This small garden contains a number of plants which feature in Morris’ textile and wallpaper designs. The shady lower garden features ferns, which thrive in its microclimate. The lower floors of Kelmscott House are now used as the headquarters of the William Morris Society. A museum dedicated to his life and work is open on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, 12–5pm.
Museum open. Book and gift stall. Handout showing Morris’ description and plan of the 1880s garden. Display of Morris’s designs. Children’s quiz and trail.
Entrance
26 Upper Mall; through the coach house in the cobbled courtyard, to the left of the house. Nearest postcode: W6 9TA
Georgian house, home of printer and antiquary Emery Walker, friend of William Morris. Platform overlooking the river. Conservatory with grapevine from a cutting from Hogarth's House. Flowers that feature in William and May Morris designs.
Large roof terrace with spectacular views of London, completely decked out with terrace furniture hand-picked for a beautiful home-from-home feel. Stunning flowers and fresh herb plants cared for by a local environmental charity.
This hidden garden at a sheltered housing scheme in the middle of Shepherd's Bush features plants to encourage bees and butterflies, a pond, pergola, arches and a large community greenhouse.
