Step into the heart of London’s green haven, the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, where nature takes center stage. Beyond the iconic stadiums and world-class venues lies a captivating array of gardens and open spaces, each offering a unique experience for visitors. This vibrant tapestry of curated landscapes and wilder spaces invites you to explore and discover something new at every turn.
A Tapestry of Gardens
Imagine a world where you can wander through gardens filled with plants from across the globe, reflecting Britain’s long history of exploration and horticultural diversity. This is the essence of the 2012 Gardens, a captivating journey through four distinct climatic zones, each showcasing the ecological character of habitats found around the world. Over 70,000 plants from 250 different species form a living testament to the beauty and diversity of the natural world, designed for dramatic year-round effect. Beyond their visual appeal, the plants were meticulously chosen for their ability to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, contributing to the park’s vibrant biodiversity.
Looking for a tranquil spot to reflect? The London Blossom Garden offers a peaceful sanctuary to remember those lost during the COVID-19 pandemic. This living memorial features 33 blossom trees, each representing a London borough. As spring unfolds, the garden bursts into a vibrant display of hawthorn, cherry, cherry plum, and crab apple blossoms, creating a stunning scene against the backdrop of the surrounding parkland. This special place pays tribute to London’s resilience and the bravery of key workers who tirelessly served their communities during challenging times.
Venture into the heart of the park, and you’ll discover a hidden gem: the Great British Garden. This unique space showcases the quintessential charm of British domestic gardens, taking visitors on a journey through three themed gardens inspired by the colours of Olympic medals: bronze, silver, and gold. A tapestry of new plantings intertwines with mature trees, forming a natural barrier between the peaceful gardens and the bustling London Stadium across the canal.
A Symphony of Spaces
The South Park Plaza pulsates with activity, a vibrant hub for events, entertainment, and discovery. This modern “Pleasure Garden” has transformed a former Olympic concourse into a dynamic space for all. Tessa Jowell Boulevard, a tree-lined axis adorned with spherical lanterns and vibrant planting, leads you through a network of kiosks, event spaces, play areas, and open lawns. From the captivating Water Labyrinth fountains to the iconic ArcelorMittal Orbit, the South Park Plaza offers a unique blend of urban energy and verdant spaces.
A tribute to the Paralympic Games, Mandeville Place is a celebration of athletic achievements and human spirit. This small orchard, featuring apple and other fruit trees, embraces a spirit of determination, inspiration, courage, and equality, the core values of the Paralympic Games. A pavilion crafted from the original Athletes’ Village Paralympic Wall stands as a lasting reminder of these values. The ‘Paradice Gold’ apple variety, uniquely developed for the garden, embodies the spirit of the Paralympics, blending the word “Paralympic” with the first letters of the values it represents.
The parklands reflect the River Lea’s central role in the area, creating a haven for wildlife. Acres of wetlands and riverside meadows offer a haven for hundreds of bird species, waterfowl, and amphibians. A large wetland bowl, carved out of the river’s path, not only provides beautiful, sloping lawns and meadows for visitors but also acts as a natural flood defence. This harmonious blend of natural beauty and functional design showcases the park’s commitment to sustainability and ecological balance.
From curated gardens to wilder spaces, the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park invites you to explore a world of green. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat, a vibrant social hub, or a celebration of nature, the park offers a sanctuary for all. Discover the hidden treasures, experience the beauty, and reconnect with the magic of nature in the heart of London.
