“When life gives you lemons…”
Just when spring was springing and we should all have been out tiptoeing through the tulips, life took a rum turn. Instead of striking out to discover pastures new we were largely confined, restricted to a single walk a day.
Happily, these restrictions have now eased and we can once again venture out responsibly to explore the world and the beauty around us – for there is so much to enjoy.
Not everywhere is open yet, and lockdown has meant many of the destinations featured in A London Floral have had to find new ways to share their love of plants and flowers with us all. Please find details listed below and make a note to visit soon – they all deserve our support.
Petersham Nurseries Cafe
In the past, evening dining at Petersham Nurseries was restricted to its few-and-far-between supper club events. Now, in an unexpected benefit of Covid, service will extend until sundown on selected nights. Take the train to Richmond, walk along the river and through the water meadows, and settle in for dinner in the bougainvillea-filled glasshouses, one of the prettiest settings in London.
Garden Museum
The museum has now reopened with the aptly-titled exhibition: ‘Derek Jarman: My Garden’s Boundaries are the Horizon’. Book your tickets in advance.
Dalston Eastern Curve Garden
Following a successful crowdfunder appeal this vibrant community garden has opened its doors again, with special provision for those who have been shielding or isolating. Funds are still needed to secure its long-term future; you can make a donation to support them here.
The Charterhouse Gardens
The beautiful gardens around the ancient almshouses are currently closed, but you can pique your interest ready for a future visit with an audio tour on the Candide gardening app.
The Flower Appreciation Society
Present ideas are hard to come by just now. How about a voucher for a future flower workshop from The Flower Appreciation Society? The promise of joy to come – what could be nicer than that?
Scarlet & Violet
This Kensal Rise flower shop is now open for pre-arranged collections and deliveries. Keep up with the latest news on Instagram.
That Flower Shop
Formerly at the Ace Hotel, That Flower Shop is now based at 263 Hoxton Street. Open Weds-Sat it offers seasonal, sustainable flowers from owner Hattie’s cutting patch and other British growers.
The Culpeper
The Culpeper’s roofgarden has now reopened and is taking part in the government’s #Eatouttohelpout campaign, offering two courses for £10 once the discount has been applied. It has also committed that all proceeds from the sale of vouchers will go into an Employee Emergency Care Fund to help the team with rent and bills. Find out more and buy a voucher here.
Walworth Garden
Keen to help locals enjoy the benefits of 'growing your own’, the team at this community garden is now offering contactless, kerbside deliveries of plants and other gardening essentials including herbs, vegetable plants and fruit bushes. Follow along on Instagram for the latest news, which includes the happy tidings that the garden is now open on weekends again.
Inner Temple Garden
Tune in on Instagram every Wednesday at 4pm for live video from Head Gardener Sean Harkin. The daily posts are worth following too!
Yolly
This Forest Hill florist is now offering local no-contact deliveries of freshly cut British blooms on Thursdays.
Omved Gardens
Follow along on Instagram for delicious recipes and some simple growing tutorials.
Electric Daisy Flower Farm Shop
Electric Daisy grows all its flowers on its Cotswolds farm. Having given flowers away to NHS workers at the start of lockdown, now its delightful new shop in Swain’s Lane, Highgate, is back in business.
The Museum of the Home
The opening of the renamed, refurbished Geffrye Museum has sadly been delayed by the crisis. Keep an eye on its Instagram feed for the latest news.
The Covent Garden Academy of Flowers
This flower school has relocated to Chipping Campden in the Cotswolds. Find out more here.