London’s best indoor green spaces to escape the winter blues

When the winter chill sets in and the London skies are often grey and rainy, indoor green spaces offer the perfect escape. From towering tropical plants to lush Victorian conservatories, here are some of the most remarkable indoor gardens to visit in London, providing a serene environment for relaxation and inspiration, no matter the weather.

Barbican Conservatory

Barbican Conservatory, Barbican Centre. © MTotoe.

#FLODown: Step into a hidden world of exotic plants and trees at the Barbican Conservatory, a tropical oasis nestled within the iconic Barbican Centre. London’s second-largest conservatory is home to over 2,000 species of plants from around the globe. The dense foliage, flowing water features, and towering trees create a botanical jungle atmosphere, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. The conservatory also hosts special events, adding a unique touch to your visit.

Location: Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS. Opening hours: Friday - Sunday; Friday 6.30pm - 9.30pm, Sunday Noon - 7pm. barbican.org.uk.

Sky Garden

Sky Garden. © MTotoe.

#FLODown: Imagine wandering through a garden while gazing at panoramic views of London’s skyline—this is what the Sky Garden offers. Situated on the 35th floor of the famous Walkie Talkie building, the Sky Garden is an urban oasis where you can enjoy a range of plants from around the world, including palm trees and ferns. The garden’s open terraces offer a relaxing space to take in the view, while the immersive greenery provides a welcome contrast to the city below. Admission is free when you book in advance.

Location: 20 Fenchurch Street, London EC3M 3BY. Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 10am – 6pm(last entry at 5:45 pm); Saturday – Sunday: 11am – 9pm; Bank Holidays: 11am – 9pm. skygarden.london.

Temperate House at Kew Gardens

Temperate House, Kew Gardens. © MTotoe.

#FLODown: The Temperate House at Kew Gardens is the world’s largest Victorian glasshouse, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore a stunning collection of temperate plants from diverse climates around the globe. Home to plants from regions such as South Africa, Australia, and the Mediterranean, the glasshouse showcases a rich array of species, from towering trees to delicate ferns. The grandeur of its 19th-century architecture, with intricate ironwork and soaring glass panes, makes it not just a botanical marvel, but a visual delight. Recently restored, the Temperate House now features enhanced displays and a dedicated space to learn about plant conservation. It is a must-visit for plant enthusiasts and anyone seeking a peaceful escape among nature’s wonders.

Location: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AE. Opening hours: Open daily from 10 am - 4pm. Website:kew.org.

Crossrail Place Roof Garden

Crossrail Place Roof Garden. June 2023. © MTotoe.

#FLODown: The Crossrail Place Roof Garden offers a quiet sanctuary in Canary Wharf. Set beneath a striking curved roof, this garden features a diverse range of plants from around the world. Wooden walkways wind through the lush greenery, providing a tranquil space to relax and enjoy the variety of plant life, including tropical ferns and vibrant flowers. With its calming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Location: Crossrail Place, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AR. Opening hours: Daily from 9am - 9pm. canarywharf.com.

Princess of Wales Conservatory at Kew Gardens

Orchids at The Princess of Wales Conservatory, Kew Gardens, celebrating the remarkable biodiversity of Madagascar. © RBG Kew.

#FLODown: The Princess of Wales Conservatory, one of three great indoor green spaces at Kew Gardens, features ten distinct climatic zones that bring together a diverse range of plants from tropical rainforests to arid deserts. These biomes showcase an incredible variety of plant life, from vibrant orchids to towering cacti. The conservatory also hosts the annual Orchid Festival, held every February. The 2025 festival, running from 1 February to 2 March, will be inspired by the beauty of Peru.

Location: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AE. Opening hours: Open daily from 10 am - 4pm. kew.org.

Palm House at Kew Gardens

#FLODown: The Palm House at Kew Gardens is a remarkable example of Victorian glasshouse architecture, housing an impressive variety of tropical plants. As you step inside, you’re greeted by warm, humid air and towering palms, creating the feeling of being transported to a cosy tropical paradise. It’s the perfect place to visit on a crisp winter’s day, where you can enjoy the fragrant scents of exotic plants, the vibrant green foliage, and the gentle sounds of water features—a welcoming escape from London’s cold weather.

Location: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AE. Opening hours: Daily 10am - 4pm. https://www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whats-in-the-gardens/palm-house