Culpeper Community Garden: Islington’s urban oasis
Culpeper Community Garden is classed as one of London’s (and possibly England’s) flagship examples of how to do things right. This little oasis is right in the heart of Islington in North London. The organic lawn is surrounded by a wildlife pond, rose pergolas, ornamental beds and a wildlife haven, where people on seats can just watch and relax.
There are also 49 vegetable plots (including raised beds for disabled gardens) and the garden is maintained by both members and volunteers.
Read more starting a community garden. Ensure they are pet-friendly gardens (if dogs visit) and wildlife-friendly. And read about wildlife ponds and safe havens for garden birds.
What’s interesting with this garden is that now the work is done, it kind of pays for itself. Because it’s such a beautiful space, the garden is able to hire it out for events (presumably like garden parties or wedding photography).
So this money can then go back into ensuring the garden is looked after for years to come, through purchasing anything that needs buying for maintenance (and helps to fund the two paid staff).
People often imagine cities to be dark grey places. But in fact, just look at the photos. And you’ll see that this community garden right in the heart of the city, is offering a much nicer green space than many villages or towns across England. Showing that it can be done anywhere and by anyone.
So many places these days don’t have even a small park for people to go sit on a bench and read a book, and take in the scent of organic roses or listen to the birds. This garden even has a seasonal ‘long rose walk’, how lovely. This garden shows you could do the same!
The history of Culpeper Community Garden
What’s even more inspiring is when you look at its history. Years ago, a teacher was passing by, looked through a hole in the fence and saw a ‘bomb site’. The original street had been named after herbalist Nicholas Culpeper.
So with the help of an architect who donated free plans, they got to work. Things almost came to blows when the council withdrew a grant. But there were so many local protests, the council changed its mind, and agreed to give half the original money, rather than none.
Today the garden is over 40 years old and a registered charity. And holds many events for local people including a ‘Pensioners Strawberry Tea’ with live music hall entertainment and a Pearly Queen who visits!’ There are also craft and environmental workshops. The garden even has its own choir!
Wildlife love Culpeper Community Garden too
And of course, humans are not the only creatures to enjoy the garden. Over the years, it’s become a haven for city wildlife including birds, butterflies, moths and hoverflies. Plus the wildlife pond is popular with local amphibians and endangered dragonflies.
If you want a good example of how to take an ugly plot of land, get together volunteers and experts, and totally transform a little place where you live, this is the inspiration you need!
