Discover Bessborough Gardens
Westminster in London, stretches from the flowing River Thames to the lively Oxford Street. It's an upscale district that’s a magnet for tourists, professionals, and anyone seeking a taste of London’s fast pace. Yet, amid all this excitement, tucked quietly between the busy corridors of Vauxhall Bridge Road and Grosvenor Road in Pimlico, lies a secret escape: Bessborough Gardens.
Imagine this: you're caught up in the daily rush of commuters and curious visitors, and almost by accident, you stumble upon a patch of green. As you wander through the unassuming main entrance, you'll be greeted by a square bordered by classic 1980s white stucco houses. A fountain splashes at one end and a lawn with carefully planned borders and mature trees lies central.
The History of Bessborough Gardens
Originally, the Bessborough Gardens site was home to the Holy Trinity Church. Designed by the talented J. Pearson and constructed between 1849 and 1852, this church was a focal point for the local community. Unfortunately, the ravages of wartime bombings led to its demolition in 1954.
While the original church is no longer with us, it is remembered fondly as part of the Bessborough Gardens’ history. The area later evolved from open fields that once lay beside the Millbank Penitentiary into a lovely garden square set between residential terraces.
This development of Bessborough gardens occurred in the 1980s by the Crown Estate, in collaboration with housing expert George Wimpey and celebrated landscape architect Sir Peter Shepheard. The garden’s layout was meticulously planned to counter the gusty Thames breezes and urban noise. The three-tiered fountain with a towering 20-foot wall stands guard, creating a natural sound barrier and visual focal point.
Naming the Bessborough Gardens
According to most sources the garden was named for Lord Bessborough—John William Ponsonby, the 4th Earl of Bessborough, which makes sense right?! Bessborough was a distinguished British politician who held the Home Secretary post in 1834.
However, in an interesting twist: other sources claim that rather than being named after Lord Bessborough, this lovely garden takes its name from Lord Granville—who, in the early 19th century, married the niece of the Countess of Bessborough (after he apparently sired an illegitimate child with the Countess).
Stepping Inside the Bessborough Gardens
Bessborough Gardens is divided into three different areas arranged in a playful triangular layout, separated by neat, paved pathways that invite leisurely strolls. Here are some standout features:
- Green Areas: The carefully manicured lawns provide plenty of room to relax, picnic, or simply bask in the sunshine.
- Benches & Foliage: Scattered seating spots and mature trees create a cosy, park-like atmosphere that makes it easy to lose track of time.
- Surroundings: Flanked by iconic 1980s white terraced houses, the garden's borders—defined by a series of well-planted shrubs and trees—are a peaceful boundary from the busy streets beyond.
The Dolphin Fountain
The crown jewel of the garden is undoubtedly the Dolphin Fountain. Designed by Sir Peter Shepheard, this striking piece of art pays homage to London's iconic dolphin lamp standards and even incorporates a nod to George Vulliamy's design motifs. Despite some critics calling it a 'pastiche' approach, local residents can’t get enough of its quirkiness.
Visiting Bessborough Gardens
Planning a visit? You’re in for a treat! Bessborough Gardens is open to the public every day from 8:00 am until dusk, making it easy to squeeze in a visit whether you're an early bird or a sunset chaser. Today the garden is maintained with pride by Westminster City Council, ensuring it remains safe, clean, and open for use.
Getting Here:
- By Tube: Hop off at Pimlico (Victoria) or Victoria stations, which are conveniently close.
- Dog Lovers Welcome: Bring your furry friend along—Bessborough Gardens is a dog-friendly spot perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Go Beyond the Bessborough Gardens with CityDays
Ready for more adventures? At CityDays, we believe that history, art, and fun go hand in hand.
Beyond exploring iconic sites like The Burghers of Calais in London, we offer exciting scavenger hunt and treasure hunt tours across the city.
Answer riddles, solve puzzles, and learn more about London’s 2000-year-old history in a new and interactive way!
Take the stress out of planning your visit to London and book your adventure today!
Not visiting London this time? Don’t worry, you’ll find us all over the world.
