“I think gardens and the history around them are really important for people because they tell lots of different stories.” Emma House, a curator at the Garden Museum, when we spoke to her about the importance of gardening heritage in this short film.

We couldn’t agree more, and London has an amazing range of places to get outdoors. Why not give your wellbeing a welcome boost and pay a visit this weekend? We’ve selected some of our favourite National Lottery-supported green spaces, to inspire your exploring:

1. Eastbury Manor House

The walled gardens at Eastbury Manor House are a hidden gem, preserved from when they were first built in Elizabethan times.

Enjoy guided tours, children’s crafts and nature trails at this historic site.

2. Brompton Cemetery

Having recently been awarded the conservation award at the Museum and Heritage Awards 2018, Brompton Cemetery is a first-class place to visit.

Visit the resting places of famous names such as Emmeline Pankhurst, and soak in the atmosphere at one of the ‘Magnificent Seven’ cemeteries.

3. Fulham Palace

The Palace and Gardens at Fulham are enjoying a period of restoration and change. If you visit this weekend you can learn first-hand from staff and volunteers about what it takes to preserve this beautiful historic location.

4. Keats’ House

See where Keats composed some of his best-loved poetry in the gardens of his home in North London.

Meet the gardeners, learn about the plants at Keats’ House and enjoy poetry readings this Sunday afternoon.

5. Stave Hill Ecological Park

The Compound at Stave Hill Ecological Park is a great place to celebrate nature, and there are plenty of things to explore.

Visit this weekend, and meet a beekeeper, tackle nature and quiz trails or help out with making a wildflower meadow.

6. Rainham Hall

An evolving and fascinating island in East London, Rainham Hall features an orchard, herbaceous borders and a woodland play area.

Learn about the future of this green space, and enjoy a bit of peace and quiet in the heart of East London.

Find out more

Have a look at the Open Garden Squares Weekend website for a full list of gardens, and more information about how to take part.