A new two-acre garden commemorating the life of Queen Elizabeth II opens to the public on Monday 27 April in the heart of Regent’s Park—transforming a disused plant nursery into a tranquil space of color, contemplation, and biodiversity.
The Queen Elizabeth II Garden, located behind the Espresso Bar on the Broad Walk and just steps from the Avenue Gardens, has been designed as a place of memory and hope. Where decommissioned glasshouses once stood, visitors will now find one of London’s newest green spaces woven into one of its finest historic landscapes.
The site previously grew shrubs and plants for London’s eight Royal Parks, but was decommissioned following the opening of the Hyde Park Nursery in 2018. The new garden returns two acres (0.8 hectares) of public green space to central London.
A Garden of Symbolism and Service
The design carries layers of meaning connected to the late Queen’s life and legacy. A straight path running through the garden represents her unwavering loyalty and service, with each end offering a moment of quiet reflection. At the southern main entrance, visitors are greeted by a large pond complete with seating and a pergola.
The central promenade is bisected by a meandering path leading through a series of landscapes, while a network of smaller informal paths allows visitors to wander through the planting and explore further.
The plants have been selected for their wildlife value and their connections to Queen Elizabeth II and the places she loved. Lily of the valley—which featured in Her Majesty’s coronation bouquet—grows alongside Narcissus ‘Diamond Jubilee’ and Tulipa ‘Royal Celebration.’ Myrtle, rosemary, oak, and Maackia amurensis all carry royal or personal associations.
More than 40 new trees have been planted, each chosen to complement the garden, to be climate-resilient, and to provide food and habitat for wildlife. Specimen trees from Commonwealth nations take their place alongside native British species.
Ornate metalwork on a converted water tower represents the UK’s four nations, surrounded by wildflowers.
Designed for Everyone
The garden has been designed to be welcoming and accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities. Its four entrances are open and unimpeded by gates or physical obstructions during opening hours. The main path is even, level, and generous in width, with visual contrast against the surrounding planting.
Passing and turning places, along with seating, are incorporated at regular intervals. Spaces are provided next to seats for wheelchair users, buggies, and mobility scooters. Upgraded, fully accessible toilet facilities—including a Changing Places toilet—are located near the main entrance.
The Queen Elizabeth II Garden
Opens: Monday 27 April 2026
Hours: 9am–8pm daily (entry managed to ensure a comfortable experience)
Location: The Regent’s Park, behind the Espresso Bar on the Broad Walk, near the Avenue Gardens. Accessible via four entrances including Chester Road and the Broad Walk.
Admission: Free
More information: royalparks.org.uk
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