I visited Lexham Gardens during the Open Garden Squares Weekend and it was like being on a village green as the residents were celebrating with their Annual Garden Party. Free drinks as we came through the gate – wonderful! – people chatting everywhere, and the children (and adults) enjoying a wonderful magician.

Lexham Gardens is part of the original Manor of Kensington which was given to the De Vere family by William the Conqueror. (Bina Gardens, Nevern Square, and Earls Court Square are also within this historical manor.) The houses were developed in the 1870s and the gardens laid out in 1877. The original occupants of the square were professional people, and particularly army officers and their families. Today the gardens are privately owned. Renovation in the 1990s divided the gardens into compartments, with a little stream, and overgrown, secret walks leading to an open lawn. Beyond that is a rose garden. And everywhere there are interesting trees and plants.

Further information
The history of the Manor of Kensington
The history of Lexham Gardens