Which Westminster Abbey Garden is the oldest?

College Garden is considered Britain’s oldest cultivated garden, dating back nearly a thousand years to the Abbey’s earliest monastic community.

Are the gardens included with Abbey tickets?

Yes, entry to most gardens is included with Westminster Abbey admission, although specific garden areas may follow separate opening hours.

Do the gardens host seasonal flower displays?

Yes, seasonal displays highlight changing plants, with spring blossoms, summer borders, and autumn colors providing different experiences throughout the year.

Is wheelchair access available throughout the gardens?

Most gardens have wheelchair access, though medieval paths and uneven surfaces may require assistance. Staff can suggest suitable accessible routes.

Do the gardens have historical markers or plaques?

Yes, several gardens feature interpretive plaques that highlight their monastic history, architectural context, and original functions within Abbey life.

Is entry to Westminster Abbey Gardens free without Abbey admission?

Generally no. Gardens are accessed as part of Abbey entry, though occasional open days may allow limited free garden visits.

Are there restrooms near the gardens?

Yes, restrooms are available inside Westminster Abbey, with garden visitors able to use the Abbey’s general visitor facilities.

Discover Westminster Abbey Gardens: London's Oldest Garden

Tucked within Westminster Abbey, the gardens reflect centuries of spiritual and communal life. From monastic herb plots to College Garden’s seasonal blooms, they preserve tradition while welcoming modern visitors. These historic spaces provide refreshing calm amid central London’s bustling landmarks and busy streets.

History and significance of the Westminster Abbey garden

Westminster Abbey and Buxton Memorial in Victoria Tower Gardens, London.

Monastic origins: The gardens were originally cultivated by Benedictine monks for prayer, herbs, and simple sustenance, offering a vital resource within the Abbey’s enclosed grounds.
Spiritual retreat: Monks used the gardens as places of meditation and quiet, balancing daily duties with spaces designed for reflection, prayer, and contemplation.
Herbal remedies: College Garden produced healing plants and essential herbs, sustaining the monastery’s infirmary while reflecting the broader medieval tradition of medicinal horticulture.
Community role: The gardens served not only as monastic retreats but also as functional spaces supporting education, community care, and shared Abbey life.
Enduring legacy: Across centuries, the gardens preserved their purpose of calm, reflection, and practical use, maintaining continuity between medieval spirituality and modern visitation.

About Westminster Abbey

Practical information

Cloister courtyard with a central fountain at Westminster Abbey, London.

Westminster Abbey Gardens generally follow Abbey opening hours, with seasonal variations. Visitors should confirm specific timings before arrival to ensure entry.
College Garden is usually open on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons. Access may vary depending on services or Abbey events.

Courtyard with arches and fountain at Westminster Abbey, London.

Access to Westminster Abbey Gardens is generally included within Abbey admission, with no separate tickets required for most visitors.
Certain gardens, including College Garden, may have restricted openings, meaning availability differs from general Abbey admission and should be checked in advance.

Elderly woman in wheelchair enjoying a sunny park with a caregiver.

Benches and shaded areas are available for rest, though food or picnics are not permitted to preserve garden tranquility.
Wheelchair access is possible in most gardens, though uneven medieval paths may require assistance. Staff provide guidance on accessible routes.

Man holding a DSLR camera, preparing for photography.

Photography is permitted in many garden areas for personal use, with restrictions applying during services or private events.
Tripods and professional equipment typically require permission, ensuring gardens remain open and accessible without disruption to other visitors’ experiences.