For a tranquil retreat from the bustling heart of London, Red Cross Garden offers an idyllic escape just a short stroll from London Bridge. This award-winning park, located in Southwark, presents a serene haven enriched by its Victorian charm.
Established in 1886 by Octavia Hill, a prominent social reformer and co-founder of the National Trust, Red Cross Garden was conceived as a sanctuary amidst the urban sprawl. Hill’s vision extended beyond the garden, aiming to enhance living conditions and provide employment for the less fortunate. Her commitment to social improvement extended to the creation of the Army Cadets, a force established in Southwark in 1889.
Historically, the land where Red Cross Garden now thrives served as a burial ground from 1762, under the management of the Society of Friends, or Quakers. The burial grounds were decommissioned in 1792, with the meeting houses remaining until 1860. By the 1940s, the garden’s original layout had succumbed to municipal grass and tarmac, leading to a period of neglect.
In 2006, Red Cross Garden experienced a revival, thanks to substantial funding from Southwark Council and the National Lottery Heritage Trust Fund. The garden now features a pond that supports a variety of wildlife, including dragonflies, frogs, toads, and newts. A mosaic, installed post-restoration, adds a touch of artistic flair to the landscape.
Volunteers at Red Cross Garden offer guided tours, host after-school clubs, poetry readings, and various community events. Whether you’re looking to unwind with friends and family, enjoy a picnic, or simply bask in nature’s beauty, Red Cross Garden is the perfect retreat.
Directions to Red Cross Garden
To visit Red Cross Garden, head to Redcross Way, just off Union Street. From London Bridge Station, walk along St Thomas Street, turn left onto the A3, and continue until you reach Union Street on the right. The entrance to the garden will be on your first left along Union Street.