Chelsea Physic Garden in west London is one of the world’s oldest botanic gardens. It was established way back in 1673 as the Apothecaries’ Garden and by the 18th century, it had become the world’s most generously stocked botanic garden. These days Chelsea Physic Garden remains a very unique place and one of the world’s most famous botanical attractions.
“The Ointments for Hemerroids in Great Extremity” Get insights into herbal ointment making at Chelsea Physic Garden! Photo by Stu Smith
The word ‘physic’ is used in the title to refer to the practice of growing medicinal plants to aid healing, an emphasis still in place today. Chelsea Physic Garden holds around 5,000 plant species, including many rare and endangered species. The unique microclimate of the garden allows species that would not normally flourish in Britain to be grown here, including plants normally found in the Mediterranean region.
Chelsea Physic Garden Glasshouse dating back from 1902
Chelsea Physic Garden relic from the past
Highlights for children
- Various gardening courses and workshops
- Learn to make herbal remedies
- Chocolate Tuesday, including chocolate tasting
- Botanical Candles and Soapmaking
- Garden safari discovering plants and insects
Word of advice: If you’re bringing small children keep an eye on them as some of the plants are poisonous! Also, note that this is one of the very few gardens in London where you need to buy a ticket to enter. The tickets are not cheap (check website for the latest prices), so make sure to make the most out of your visit by taking part in the planned activities. The ticket is also valid the whole day, so if your kids get bored you can always take a break and come back later.
Exotic plants in Chelsea Physic Garden
The highlights of Chelsea Physic Garden include the UK’s largest fruit-bearing olive tree and the world’s most northern-located grapefruit tree. The garden is used as an aesthetically-rich place of rest and relaxation, a vital resource for the exploration of plants‘ medicinal qualities, and a general exhibition of the delights of botanical life.
- Address: 66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, London SW3, West London
- Web: https://www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk/
- Nearest Tube: Sloane Square (District Line; Circle Line)
- What’s nearby: Battersea Park, Battersea Dogs Home, Family Cycling