Time Out

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Nature ValleySecret spots

Oases of calm and refreshing lunchtime locations in the city

Your secret spots

 

We asked you to send in your own Secret Spots – the magical green spaces hidden around the city where you go to escape the urban hubbub. We've put a gallery up of the winning entries – just click on the pictures below to discover the location of each of the Secret Spots – or take a look at the green markers on our map.


St Dunstan's in the East, EC4 - 'The church was demolished in the blitz but the site was turned into a beautiful, secluded and leafy public garden with palm trees, vines and benches to put your feet up.' Sent in by Jess Bauldry Pergola Garden, NW3‎ - 'Whilst out on a run through Hampstead Heath one day I stumbled across the Pergola and Hill Garden. It is absolutely stunning and, as not many people seem to know it is even there, very quiet. The first time I found the garden it was covered in snow and ice and particularly beautiful. It's perfect for a romantic picnic or some peaceful time alone. I love to visit the garden and explore or simply sit and enjoy the tranquility of it. There aren't many places like this in London - quiet, beautiful and tranquil - a real Secret Garden.' Sent in by Lyn Gibbins Millbank Gardens - 'Not far from St John’s Gardens and the Tate Britain this is a narrow rectangular garden which has both sunshine and ample shade for lunchtime picnics and a number of benches and is very quiet.' Sent in by James Cooke West Brompton Cemetery - 'I know that it sounds gloomy but this spot is far from it. It is always very light and peaceful. A place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the London streets.' Sent in by Sian Serafin Centre for Wildlife Gardening, Peckham - 'A wonderful secret garden in London, it's a 5 min walk from East Dulwich station but totally hidden and a complete and utterly wonderful surprise.' Sent in by Helen Babbs London Wetland Centre, Barnes - 'It's a ten or fifteen minute walk from Putney Bridge tube station and is beautiful and very peaceful, not to mention the award winning array of wildlife. Perfect!' Sent in by Jamie Cuffe

Congratulations to Jess Bauldry, Lyn Gibbins and James Cooke – who each receive a special Nature Valley hamper (to enjoy in their Secret Spot, even?), and to Helen Babbs, Sian Serafin and Jamie Cuffe – who each receive a box of Nature Valley.

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