Originally known as the Apothecaries' Garden, Chelsea Physic Garden was created in 1673. It was, in a sense, a hands-on laboratory in which medicinal plants were identified, studied, and cultivated. In its current incarnation, it features gardens that continue to reflect our ongoing need of exotic plant species for medicine and food--in other words, our very survival!
A couple of my novel's scenes take place here.
The plaque at the garden's entrance.
The space contains many beds, and grouped by specific characteristics.
These plants are used in dermatology.
Cold frames to protect tender plants and seedlings.
An orchid growing inside one of several glasshouses devoted to scented and tropical plants.
I happened to visit during the annual Poppy Appeal to raise funds for the Royal British Legion, so this bright poppy was blooming at a suitable time.
The statue of Sir Hans Sloane overlooks the grounds. He was very closely associated with the garden's history and development.
An interesting and picturesque plant.
Ranelagh isn't far from the Physic Garden. During the 17th century it was an aristocrat's estate and was noted for its formal gardens. In the 18th century it became a place of concerts, entertainments, and masquerades. The Rotunda where these took place is long gone. Nowadays it's a pleasant area for strolling.
The Royal Hospital at Chelsea houses infirm and retired military veterans. It was founded in 1681 by King Charles II, reportedly at the urging of his mistress Nell Gwyn (a minor character in my novel.) Sir Christopher Wren was the architect. The Chelsea Pensioners march in the Remembrance Sunday parade.
To Remembrance Sunday > > >
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