Description
The Garden at 120 offers a peaceful, elevated escape in the heart of the City of London. It stands out as one of the best free things to do with kids in the City of London if you want a relaxing outdoor viewpoint and rooftop garden experience. Children can safely explore the wide, open-air pathways and enjoy spectacular 360-degree views of the capital’s famous skyline.
Entry to the garden is completely free for all visitors, as this public space requires no booking ticket for standard groups. You can simply turn up and visit at your own pace, though you may encounter a short security screening at the ground-floor entrance during peak periods. It is best to bring a small budget if you wish to purchase refreshments from the kiosk located on the level below.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids to escape the city noise, this modern rooftop oasis fits perfectly. It combines impressive architectural design with landscaped green spaces where everyone can unwind and spot iconic landmarks. The layout makes it easy to explore the entire space in a short, manageable visit.
Features
- Free
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
Features
- Sensory nature walks: Families can stroll through lush green borders featuring over 85 Italian wisteria trees and seasonal fruit trees.
- Interactive skyline spotting: Kids can engage with their surroundings by turning the 360-degree views into a game, spotting landmarks like The Shard and Tower Bridge.
- Educational outdoor day out: The modern landscape provides a fantastic opportunity for children to learn about urban rooftop gardening and architecture in the heart of the financial district.
Highlights
- The 360-Degree Viewing Deck: This is the garden’s main highlight, offering an unobstructed view of London’s most famous landmarks. Children will love pointing out the Gherkin, the Walkie Talkie, and the bustling River Thames below.
- The Flowing Water Feature: A 200ft-long water feature runs through the garden, creating a tranquil atmosphere. It is a perfect spot for children to rest and watch the water move while parents enjoy the scenery.
- The Wisteria-Covered Pergolas: These beautiful structures provide shade and texture, making the space feel like a secret garden in the clouds. During spring and early summer, the wisteria blooms create a stunning, colourful backdrop for family photos.
- The Landscaped Lawns and Seating: Unlike many other high-altitude venues, the garden offers plenty of benches where families can sit and relax. It is an ideal spot to take a break from walking and enjoy a packed lunch.
- The Fruit Tree Collection: The rooftop is home to over 30 fruit trees, which are rarely seen in such an urban setting. Children can get a close look at how trees grow in a modern, elevated environment.
Named Attractions and Garden Collections
- The 360-Degree Panoramic Viewpoints
- The 200ft Flowing Water Feature
- The 85 Italian Wisteria Trees
- The Seasonal Fruit Tree Orchard
- The Modern Seating Pavilions
Beyond the Main Attraction: If you want to extend your day, you can walk just a few minutes to visit the historic ruins of St Dunstan in the East Church Garden. The nearby Tower of London and the riverside paths at Tower Bridge also offer plenty of space for further family exploration.
2.73 miles
