Kennington Park is one of South London’s oldest and most loved public parks, combining expansive lawns, sports pitches, playgrounds, and peaceful landscaped corners. Among its highlights is the Flower Garden, a charming space where seasonal planting, historic features, and a sense of calm make it a welcome retreat from the surrounding streets. If you’re looking for somewhere to relax in Kennington or green spaces near Oval station, the Kennington Park Flower Garden is gorgeous and a must-visit.
More About The Kennington Park Flower Garden
The Flower Garden was first created in 1931 by the London County Council, following a design inspired by Lieutenant Colonel J J Sexby, the Council’s Chief Officer of Parks. Known for championing the Old English cottage garden style, Sexby’s plans included winding York stone paths, a small central fountain, a pergola covered in climbing plants, a sundial, and a shelter where visitors could pause and enjoy the views.
Over the decades, the Flower Garden remained a favourite spot for locals, but by the early 2010s, it had lost some of its original charm. In 2012, the Friends of Kennington Park began working with Lambeth Council to restore it, securing a significant grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
The restoration was completed in July 2015, reviving both the garden’s structure and spirit. Fresh planting filled the borders with colour, a new sundial was installed, and a water feature became a central focal point.
Immediately in front of you as you enter through one of the garden gates, a circular, sunken water feature becomes the focal point. Just a few shallow steps lead you down to its edge, where the gentle movement reflects the surrounding flowers and sky. The stonework is softened by lush, layered planting that frames the pond beautifully, adding texture and colour.
Benches positioned around the curve of the pond invite you to pause and take in the stillness, with butterflies drifting past and bees busy among the blooms. From here, the view stretches out towards the pergola and the vibrant borders, giving you an instant sense of the garden’s charm as soon as you arrive.
I visited on a hot summer’s day and enjoyed strolling under the pergola walkway, where climbing plants provided much-needed shade. It felt romantic and timeless, framing the abundance of planting beyond. Overhead, wisteria cascades along the pergola, adding seasonal blossom and framing the garden in lush greenery.
A lovely addition is the sundial, made from Welsh slate by Sam Flintham, a student of historic stone carving at City & Guilds in Kennington, which serves as both a decorative feature and a nod to the garden’s historic roots.
Paths take you on a tour of the garden, which has an orderly, symmetrical layout yet feels more relaxed due to the abundant borders. On my visit, the garden was in full bloom, with dense planting and vivid colours that seemed to spill over the paths.
The planting is one of the garden’s greatest pleasures. Tall spires of bear’s breeches rise above bold, glossy leaves, while the rich crimson blooms of red bistort weave through the borders. Clusters of pale pink Joe-Pye weed add height and draw in pollinators, complemented by the airy movement of ornamental grasses. Deep pink-red valerian brightens the paths, alongside the sword-like foliage of bearded iris, which brings early summer colour.
Whether you wander through on your way elsewhere, sit quietly by the water feature, or stroll beneath the pergola with a coffee in hand, the Flower Garden is a place where history, community care, and beautiful design come together.
While you’re in the park, you can also enjoy coffee, pastries, and pizza from The Collective at the White Hut, located just a short stroll away. It’s perfect for picking up a treat before settling onto a sunny bench or shaded spot in the gorgeous Flower Garden.
Helpful Information About The Flower Garden
Kennington Park is a historic Victorian-era green space in South London, once known as Kennington Common and famous for the 1848 Chartist rally. Opened as a public park in 1852, it retains heritage features like the restored Old English Flower Garden and the Prince Consort Lodge, alongside modern facilities including sports pitches, tennis courts, a playground, and a café. It is recognised as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation and has won multiple awards, including the Green Flag and Park of the Year.
Kennington Park is in SE11, bordered by Kennington Park Road and St Agnes Place. Oval and Kennington Underground stations, both on the Northern line, are the closest stops, and several bus routes serve the area. Oval is the best station for accessing the Flower Garden. Entry is free, and the park is open daily from 7.30 am until 15 minutes before sunset. For more information, visit the Kennington Park website.
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London.