It makes for a perfect spring walk
London is stunning throughout the year, but there’s something particularly magical about spring.
And Londoners know it – that’s why so many more famous spots are crowded and sometimes a but hectic at the first sign of cherry blossom or bluebells. One spot, however, has managed to fly somewhat under the radar.
And we simply had to share it with you…
Venture into the verdant suburbs of South West London, more specifically to Richmond Park, where you’ll find The Isabella Plantation, where you’ll find stunning azaleas in bloom at this time of year.
Spanning 40 acres, this woodland garden sits within a Victorian plantation dating back to the 1830s.
During the 17th century, this spot in the south-west corner of the Park was called The Sleyt – a name typically given to marshy terrain. Isabella is also thought to derive from the word isabel, meaning dull or greyish yellow – reflecting the soil colour in this section of the park.
Yet there’s nothing dull, marshy or greyish about this location today. After trees were planted and streams created, The Isabella Plantation welcomed the public in 1953, and Londoners have been visiting to appreciate its serene splendour ever since.
And you need only glance at a few photographs to understand why…
You’ll witness a breathtaking blend of both native and exotic plants flourishing together within the plantation. A section of the parkland has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, meaning it is maintained “very much with nature in mind” according to The Royal Parks team.
Indigenous nectar and berry-producing trees are cultivated in shrubbery to supply nourishment and refuge for over 70 bird species, 50 beetle species, 130 butterfly and moth species, and six bat species.
The Plantation’s ponds and waterways also create delightful small habitats for invertebrates and amphibians.
But the plantation is most famous for its azaleas, which bloom in streams and ponds during late April and early May, so now is the perfect time to visit.
What better way to enjoy the sunshine?
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