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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.
Admission free -
but Suggested Donation
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