Introduction

The garden at 120 is one of London’s best-kept secrets, offering a public rooftop garden with sweeping views of the city. Unlike many other elevated spaces in London, this garden is free to enter, requires no pre-booking, and invites everyone to slow down in a calm, green environment. Perched atop 120 Fenchurch Street, the space has quickly become a favorite for workers, tourists, and locals alike who want a breath of fresh air above the busy streets.

This article explores the garden at 120 in detail, from its design and atmosphere to its role in the city and why it deserves a spot on your list of places to visit.

A Public Space in the Sky

The garden at 120 stands out because of its accessibility. Many rooftop gardens in London are tied to commercial venues, restaurants, or ticketed attractions. Here, the approach is different: the doors are open, and visitors can enjoy the garden without spending a penny.

This commitment to public space makes it not only a destination for visitors but also a valuable retreat for office workers in the surrounding financial district. People can step out of meetings, ride up to the fifteenth floor, and find themselves surrounded by greenery and open air.

Design and Landscape

Designed by the landscape architecture firm Latz + Partner, the garden at 120 is carefully structured yet feels natural and welcoming. Pathways lead through flower beds, shrubs, and small trees, giving the impression of strolling through a park rather than standing on top of a skyscraper.

Water features add to the sense of calm, softening the sounds of the city far below. The garden changes with the seasons, ensuring that no two visits feel exactly the same. In spring, blossoms color the walkways; in summer, lush greenery fills the air; and in autumn, warm tones bring a completely different mood.

Views of London

Of course, the garden at 120 is not only about the plants. It offers panoramic views that rival some of London’s most famous observation decks. From here, you can see the Gherkin, the Walkie Talkie, the Shard, and even Tower Bridge. The elevated perspective provides a new way to experience the city’s iconic skyline.

What makes the views special is the balance between the architecture and the greenery. You’re not simply standing on a concrete terrace—you’re surrounded by nature while looking out over glass towers and historic landmarks. It’s a combination that captures the essence of London: old and new, natural and urban, side by side.

A Place to Pause

The garden at 120 is more than just a lookout point. It is intentionally designed as a place to pause, rest, and reflect. Benches are tucked into quiet corners, offering opportunities to read, eat lunch, or simply breathe.

Unlike busier attractions, the atmosphere is generally relaxed and unhurried. On weekdays, you’ll find office workers using it as a retreat during breaks. On weekends, it fills with visitors and families who want to experience the views without the crowds of ticketed landmarks.

Culture and Community

The presence of the garden at 120 highlights the growing recognition of the need for green spaces in urban centers. London, despite being a bustling metropolis, has always prided itself on its parks. Rooftop gardens like this extend that tradition vertically.

By making the space free and open, the developers created a shared environment that belongs to everyone. It blurs the lines between work and leisure, private and public, showing that skyscrapers can serve more than just corporate purposes.

Practical Details

• Location: 120 Fenchurch Street, London EC3
• Entry: Free, no booking required
• Opening hours: Typically open during daytime hours (weather permitting), though times may vary seasonally
• Accessibility: Elevators make the garden accessible to all visitors

It’s worth checking the hours before you go, as they may change depending on daylight and events in the building.

Why It Matters

The garden at 120 is more than a pretty rooftop. It’s a statement about the importance of accessible public spaces in modern cities. In a district filled with private offices and corporate towers, this garden provides balance. It shows that even in dense urban centers, there is room for openness, greenery, and shared experience.

For Londoners, it’s a practical escape from the grind of daily life. For visitors, it’s a chance to see the city from a new perspective without the hassle of long queues or ticket prices. For everyone, it’s proof that a city can grow upward while still caring for the people at its heart.

Conclusion

The garden at 120 combines architecture, landscape, and community spirit into a unique destination. It offers views that rival London’s tallest attractions while grounding visitors in a peaceful green environment. Whether you are a worker on your lunch break, a tourist exploring the city, or a local seeking a new perspective, the garden at 120 welcomes you.

It’s not just a rooftop garden; it’s a living example of how cities can reimagine space to serve people better. By opening its doors to all, the garden at 120 has become a model of what urban public spaces can and should be.

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