The design of our garden is based on conversations with doctors and care professionals about what we can do to improve health in the context of gardens and plants. It is inspired by the healing power of plants and it will feature research based plants known to be of beneficial use to health and well-being.

The garden is fully accessible with room for patients to enjoy the outdoors from their beds or wheelchairs, as well as secluded seating areas for families and carers. Sweet smelling herbs and the relaxing water feature add to the ambiance of the space allowing our patients to enjoy the outdoors in comfort and peace.

The designer

The garden has been designed by Jekka McVicar, an award winning herb grower and author. Jekka runs Jekka’s Herb Farm, home to the largest collection of culinary herbs in the UK. She has a reputation second to none among gardening enthusiasts and celebrity chefs alike and has been awarded 62 Royal Horticultural Society medals including 14 gold medals at the Chelsea Flower Show.

Chelsea Flower Show

The garden received a fantastic Silver-Gilt award from the RHS judges and provided excellent exposure for St John’s and all of the valuable work and care that we provide to over 3,000 patients a year.

Thanks to the generous donations, the garden has been meticulously planted on-site at the Hospice since its preview at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2016.