The Uncommon Tales of a Public Park

The history of this unique green space stretches back to the 13th Century, and it is a former burial ground of the church adjacent to Westminster Abbey. Several notable figures are buried on the site including Ignatius Sancho (the first black Briton to vote) and Colonel Thomas (failed thief of the Crown Jewels). The Suffragettes, Henry Purcell and Victims of Violence are also memorialized through sculpture within the gardens.

The initiative to improve this space was led by the Victoria Business Improvement District as part of a programme of greening and public realm improvements. Storytelling, accessibility and biodiversity are key components of the transformation of Christchurch Gardens which has created a welcoming new public realm that invites people to explore, enjoy and learn.

The talk by Ed Freeman will be a chance to understand the history that informed the design and helped shape this multi award-winning public place. Please arrive ten minutes before.