Museum of Garden History

Located across the Thames from the Houses of Parliament, the Museum of Garden History is housed in the restored medieval church of St Mary-at-Lambeth.

This permanent exhibition, the world's first museum devoted to the history of gardens, is owned by The Tradescant Trust. The two John Tradescants, father and son, were 17th century plant hunters and collectors. They were among the first plant collectors in the world and the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, opened in 1683, is based on the Tradescant's collection of 'curiosities'.

Inside the church, the museum exhibits are arranged by themes, including 'Elements of Design', 'Carter's Tested Seeds' and 'Children and Gardening'.

There are also displays showing the difficulties faced by the 17th century plant hunters and a collection of ancient gardening tools.

In the churchyard is a recreated 17th century garden, with flowers and shrubs of the period. Seeds of these plants can be purchased in the shop. There is a knot garden and visitors can also visit the tombs of the Tradescants and Captain Bligh of the Bounty, who lived in Lambeth.

Lectures, courses, art exhibitions and concerts are held at the museum.

Gift shop, cafe. Refurbished museum open in October 2008.