Tropical backdrop for the last of the season’s sun
In the 18th century, Hackney was known for its hothouses, including the largest in the world at that time. These indoor tropical rainforests housed an enormous variety of tropical plants, and many of the plants in the garden here are inspired by that time, including palms and bamboo.
Hidden historic gems
The clue to the garden’s history is in its name; it was once a car-breaker’s yard.
Originally belonging to a neighbouring property, the space was offered to Sutton House on the condition it would become a garden. If the yard had remained private many views of the house and its beautiful Tudor brickwork and architectural features would have remained hidden from sight.
In 2011, the vision to transform the scrapyard into a community garden began. Thousands of local people and specialists were consulted for their ideas, skills and local knowledge. The final design was by award-winning RHS landscape designer Daniel Lobb, and it took three years to complete.
The space has been transformed, but the yard’s former history is still celebrated. ‘The Grange’ is a quirky two-storey caravan and an up-cycler’s dream. It’s made from scrap caravans from the 1970s and is kitted out with items salvaged from stately homes (not accessible during Covid restrictions).