The Japanese Garden in Hammersmith Park have long provided a tranquil space for those working and living in Television Centre. But in recent weeks the garden has been in need of a cleanup due to the build up of autumn leaves as the seasons change. The centerpiece waterfalls also required repair and the idyllic streams had begun to fill with duckweed.

Thankfully, a team of professional gardeners and volunteers have recently joined forces and agreed to tend to the garden, clearing away leaves and preparing for Spring, when the garden is at its best in full bloom. The Japanese Garden Chair, John Gordon-Smith, Richard, from the famous Kew Gardens, and Mick, the park gardener, were among the team which gave the garden a makeover. To ensure the Japanese Garden remains pristine and a natural habitat for local wildlife in the future, the team hopes to have volunteers help maintain the space on a monthly basis.

For those who have yet to experience the garden, it is well worth a visit and only a couple of minutes walk from Television Centre. The garden’s history can be traced back to the Japan-British Exhibition of 1910, and although much has changed since, the Japanese government continues to support it with the Japanese Embassy and Japan Society gifting authentic Japanese gateways and lanterns in 2018.

A big thank you to the volunteers who keep this tranquil space clean and peaceful for all of us to enjoy!