Garden Details
Growing Space at Christ Church
The Garden
Unveiled in May 2019, Growing Space at Christ Church is a hidden gem in Kensington, nestled within the church’s southern grounds. This once-forgotten corner has been transformed into a thriving edible and woodland teaching garden, offering a flourishing green sanctuary, connecting people of all ages with nature.
Complete with a stunningly restored retaining wall along Kynance Mews, the garden boasts eight raised beds with edible plants, a woodland-inspired forest school garden, a sensory border, and a charming greenhouse. More than just a pretty space, it’s a hands-on classroom where children and locals rediscover the magic of growing food and nurturing the earth.
For Children
In partnership with local schools, the garden provides an enchanting space for after-school and holiday clubs, giving children the chance to explore, learn, and play outdoors. These sessions are packed with fun and teach valuable skills through hands-on activities.
For Families
From workshops to seasonal celebrations, Growing Space hosts family-friendly events that inspire and bring people together. Highlights include Easter egg hunts, Halloween pumpkin carving, Christmas festivities, and Family Gardening Days.
For Young People
The garden provides opportunities for Duke of Edinburgh participants, work experience students, and interns to learn practical skills and gain valuable experience. As of January 2025, Growing Space is also an accredited learning centre, offering courses like the Environmental Leader certification for young people.
For the Local Community
Casual weekend gardening sessions invite locals to enjoy the outdoors, meet new people, and relax in a friendly, social atmosphere, combating loneliness, promoting light physical activity, and fostering better mental health.
For Corporations
Growing Space also welcomes businesses and organisations for group volunteering days, offering a meaningful way to engage employees in community and sustainability initiatives, while boosting team morale and strengthening interdepartmental connection.
Awards and Recognition
The garden has earned several accolades, including:
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Montessori Global Education: Community Learning Initiative of the Year (2024)
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Premium Award Winner: Sustainability Award of the Year (2023)
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E2 Media Accolade of Achievement (2023)
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London Gardens Society: The Anne Tott Trophy for Best Community Garden (2021)
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IEMA Sustainability Impact Awards Winner (2020)
Growing Space at Christ Church is more than just a garden – it’s a vibrant community hub where learning, connection, and nature flourish.
Director & Environmental Coordinator: Pascale Rochefeuille
Visitor Information
- Open
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Saturday 11:00–16:00
Sunday 12:00–17:00 - Activities
- Depending on the season, a variety of plants and vegetables will be growing the garden.We encourage visitors to come along with their children to harvest some herbs or some vegetables (if they are ready) that local children have been growing!
There will be a quiet space for you where you can relax and have some refreshments. We will likely set up a gazebo for visitors and also light refreshments, including some delicious cake made by very talented local residents!
For the little ones there will be some self-led gardening, potting activities and some digging and exploring in our woodland garden. - Picnics allowed.
- Entrance
- From Victoria Road and Kynance Mews
Nearest postcode: W8 5RQ - Buses
- Map of nearby bus stops
- Station
- Gloucester Road
- Cycle hire station
- Gloucester Road (North) (Map)
- Toilets
- Toilet on site
- Access
- Best wheelchair entrance is via Eldon Road, coming from the north side of Christ Church Kensington. Narrow bark paths and uneven ground in woodland area. Main path is wide enough for wheelchair access.
- Dogs
- Working assistance dogs only
