The Inner and Middle Temple Gardens

About The Inner and Middle Temple Gardens

This little-known, peaceful garden lies between the river and the hubbub of Fleet Street within the historic precincts of the Inner Temple. The 3-acre site includes sweeping lawns, many unusual and ancient trees. In late spring the spectacular herbaceous borders are awash with a wide range of tulips, under-planted with mysotis, with alliums, aquilegas and sweet rocket beginning to show. Under a spreading cherry tree there is a beautifully planted woodland area, particularly inspiring in the first half of the year. The peony garden contains a mixture of herbaceous and tree varieties, full of interest and colour in May. Later in the year the strong hues of late-flowering perennials, including asters, heleniums and dahlias are at their peak in late summer/early autumn, together with more exotic displays of tender salvias and annual bedding. The 70 metre long High Border is renowned for the refreshingly different colour combinations, carefully chosen and placed so that each plant complements its neighbours. Parts of the garden date back to the era of the Knights Templar and the scene from Shakespeare’s Henry VI, in which Richard Plantagenet plucks a white rose and John Beaufort a red rose at the outset of the Wars of the Roses, is reputed to have occurred in the Garden, and this otherwise undocumented event is commemorated by a rose bed alternately planted with the roses representing the Houses of York and Lancaster. A broadwalk along the Embankment boundary, lined with plane trees planted in 1871 to Robert Marnock’s design, offers excellent river views. A visit to the Garden can be combined with exploring the surrounding courtyards, where the likes of Pepys, Dickens and Thackeray have strolled, and to the beautiful 12th Century Temple Church.

Adm inc conducted tour of the gardens by Head Gardeners. Light lunch in Middle Temple Hall, please advise of any dietary requirements. Please note this event is not suitable for children.