BRIEF HISTORY
Chelsea Physic Garden is the oldest botanic garden in London, founded in 1673 by the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries of London for the purpose of training apprentices in identifying plants. It subsequently became one of the most important centres of botany in the world.
HORTICULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS
Chelsea Physic Garden hosts a unique collection of around 5000 different plants representing the entire plant kingdom, all set in a delightful green urban oasis.
The collection includes the largest olive tree in Britain, an ancient pomegranate and a fruiting grapefruit tree. There are many rare and endangered species and a wide range of medicinal and useful plants. Themed beds include pharmaceutical plants, perfumery, aromatherapy, textiles and dyes.
OTHER THINGS TO SEE & DO
This ‘hidden gem’ also has a renowned café and a shop selling gifts and books.
LOCAL AREA
Situated in upmarket Chelsea there is plenty of lovely shops, cafes and art galleries.
PLACES TO STAY
Being in Central London there is a plethora of places to stay to suit a wide range of budgets.
HOW TO FIND US
Chelsea Physic Garden is situated on Chelsea Embankment near to Albert Bridge. The entrance to the Garden is in Swan Walk off Royal Hospital Road. If your group visits on a non-public date (only by arrangement) entry is via 66 Royal Hospital Road.
Coaches
Coaches can set down groups outside the 66 Royal Hospital Road entrance or on Chelsea Embankment.
Underground
Sloane Square tube station (District and Circle lines) is a 10 minute walk. South Kensington tube (District, Circle and Piccadilly lines) is a 15 minute walk.
Buses
Nearest bus routes: 170 runs from Sloane Square and also Victoria Station (ask for Flood Street stop). Other bus routes:11, 14, 19, 22, 49, 137, 211, 349.
By road/parking
If you are driving to the Garden, try the AA Journey planner at: www.theaa.com/travelwatch/planner_main.jsp
There is no on-site parking at all (for cars, coaches or minibuses) and local parking is restricted and metered on weekdays. The Garden is not in the Congestion Charge Zone but if your journey might be affected by the Zone, information can be found at: www.cclondon.com
Access
Step-free access to the Garden is through the foyer at 66 Royal Hospital Road (there are steps at the Swan Walk Gate). There is a non-reservable disabled parking bay outside this entrance with dropped curb access to the pavement. There is a reservable wheelchair available for visitors but please book this in advance to ensure availability.
OPENING TIMES
Open 1 Apr-31 Oct, Tue-Fri 12noon-5pm (until 10pm Weds, 4 Jul-5 Sept), Sun & bank hols 12noon-6pm.
ENTRY
Adults/seniors: £9; children (5-15), students, unemployed: £6.
Free guided tours (subject to availability).
FOOD & DRINK
There is an on- site tea room.
POSTCODE FOR CAR SAT NAVs
SW3 4HS
FRIENDS/VOLUNTEERS
The garden welcomes volunteer assistance. You can help with the gardening, be a volunteer guide, an education guide or help with events. Full info click here.
WEBSITE / TEL No.
Chelsea Physic Garden
