The Garden Museum is located on the banks of the Thames, next to Lambeth Palace and opposite Parliament. It is a ten-minute walk from Vauxhall, Westminster, Waterloo and Lambeth North stations; the actual walking time depends on the route taken. In the museum and its grounds, garden design and history come together—a starting point for discovering Lambeth’s diverse green spaces and cultural attractions.
Gardens and parks
The Garden Museum’s gardens include a lushly landscaped central courtyard, areas with drought- and shade-loving plants, and a new community garden for growing local produce. The garden areas extend across the former churchyard and into a park on the opposite side of the street. Access may depend on the museum’s opening hours.
The parks also tell different stories. Brockwell Park has been a public park since 1892. Its recreational facilities include football pitches and associated facilities, tennis courts, a bowling green and a children’s playground. Kennington Park is in the London Borough of Lambeth and was laid out by James Pennethorne in the mid-19th century. Archbishop’s Park was once part of the grounds of Lambeth Palace and has been used for public recreation since the late 19th century. Park history and modern recreational facilities therefore sit side by side, without every park having the same character.
Cultural venues and historical connections
Lambeth Palace has medieval origins and is the residence of the Archbishops of Canterbury. The history of Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens offers a different perspective on the past: from the 1660s until 1859, they were an institution in Lambeth and London. Planted promenades were among the attractions, alongside musical performances, spectacular events, fireworks, balloon races, food and drink. This combination shows just how varied the entertainments of the time were.
The Royal Festival Hall opened in 1951 as part of the Festival of Britain. It is the oldest and largest building in the Southbank Centre, houses its largest auditorium and is regarded as London’s leading venue for classical music. The Open Foyer has been open to visitors free of charge every day since 1983; access arrangements may differ during special events.
The Cinema Museum is housed in the Lambeth Workhouse, built in 1873. Anyone wishing to see the collection must book a place on a guided tour. The ground floor has step-free access and an accessible toilet; a lift goes to the upper floor. As accessibility information may change due to building work, it is advisable to check before visiting.
Brixton Windmill and planning your visit
Built in 1816, Brixton Windmill is Grade II* listed. Guided walks and tours are offered on its opening days. The electrically powered millstones are used by volunteer millers to make Brixton Windmill flour; baking and milling workshops are also available. As dates may change, it is helpful to check the current events calendar before making plans.
The venues offer a range of highlights: gardens and parkland, historic buildings, a collection accessible by guided tour, or the workings of a mill. You can weigh up which ones will shape your stay according to your own cultural and nature interests.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Lambeth, Brixton, Newham, Islington, Merton, Richmond Upon Thames, Brent, Ealing.
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