St Alphage Gardens

Situated in the heart of the City of London, this urban garden offers a serene retreat amidst the bustling cityscape. Established in 1872, it was transformed from the former churchyard of St Alphage London Wall, a church with origins dating back to the 11th century. The church was uniquely constructed against the northern side of the ancient London Wall, with its churchyard extending to the north. The earliest recorded mention of the church is from approximately 1108–1125, though it is believed to have been established before 1068. (en.wikipedia.org)

The garden is bordered by a preserved section of the Roman and medieval London Wall, constructed between AD 190 and AD 225. This segment, approximately 56 meters in length, includes a fragment of the wall, with the western 6 meters and the most easterly section surviving as buried features. The wall was reinforced and repaired throughout the Roman and medieval periods, with bastions added during these times. Notably, in 1477, during the Wars of the Roses, Mayor Ralph Jocelyn ordered large-scale repairs to the London Wall between Aldgate and Aldersgate, and the brick crenellations are thought to date from this period. (historicengland.org.uk)

Adjacent to the garden lies the private Salters' Garden, providing additional green space in the area. The main garden features flower beds, benches, and a mix of grass and trees, including a magnolia and an oak. A beech hedge defines the southern edge of the garden, offering a tranquil environment for visitors. (en.wikipedia.org)

In 2020, the City of London commissioned a rejuvenation of the garden, aiming to enhance its accessibility and interpret its rich history. The project involved restructuring the garden's layout and improving the adjacent carriageway to create a welcoming threshold to the gardens and the London Wall Place development beyond. (spacehubdesign.com)

The garden is part of a larger area known as The Barbican and St Alphage's Gardens, which is recognized for its nature and wildlife value. This site supports small populations of dunnocks and wrens, both uncommon in the City, as well as house sparrows, mallards, and moorhens. (gigl.org.uk)

Visitors can explore the garden's historical features, including the ancient London Wall, and enjoy the peaceful green space amidst the city's urban landscape.