Countdown begins: One year until opening of new garden to commemorate life of Queen Elizabeth II

Core features of the garden will include a central promenade with an accessible platform over the pond, a wildflower meadow, and a flower garden featuring species of personal significance to the late Queen.

The garden represents a new chapter in The Regent’s Park’s long horticultural legacy. Designed in the spirit of William Robinson – one of the most influential garden designers and writers of the 19th century who once worked in the park – it champions naturalistic planting and climate-adaptive design. With a focus on resilient perennials, year-round seasonal interest and colour, and innovative use of materials, the scheme pushes the boundaries of sustainable gardening while honouring the traditions of one of London’s most historic landscapes.

The garden’s design also honours Her Late Majesty’s global legacy and connection to the Commonwealth. Some of the plant species will be native to Commonwealth countries, selected for both their beauty and their ability to thrive in a changing climate.

Matthew Pottage, Head of Horticulture and Landscape Strategy, The Royal Parks, said:

“As we mark one year until the garden’s opening, our gardeners are busy behind the scenes, planning the creation of a space filled with colour, texture, and fragrance. We’ll be planting magnolia trees, wildflowers, and nectar-rich plants to create a garden teeming with life.

“The garden will be a lasting tribute to Queen Elizabeth II – a space for reflection, biodiversity, and connection with the natural world. Many of the trees and plants have been carefully chosen for their ability to withstand climatic extremes, ensuring the long-term resilience of the space.”

The project will also deliver a 184% net gain in biodiversity, transforming a redundant brownfield site into a thriving green space rich in wildlife. This includes 2,000 square metres of wildflower meadows for invertebrates and over 5,000 square metres of climate-resilient, pollinator-friendly planting, creating a sustainable ecosystem for both wildlife and visitors.

Set to open in April 2026, the centenary of Queen Elizabeth II’s birth, the new garden will enhance The Regent’s Park’s historic landscape and attract millions of visitors. It will join other renowned gardens in the heart of the park, including Queen Mary’s Gardens, home to London’s largest collection of roses, and the more formal and ornate Avenue Gardens, contributing to a rich and diverse horticultural landscape.