Visit Reports
Visit to the Chelsea Physic Garden and Royal Hospital, 9th May 2013
Back to London in May for the combined visit to Chelsea Physic Garden and the Royal Hospital.
The second oldest botanic garden in England after Oxford, established in 1673, is a three-and-a-half
acre green oasis with five thousand plants. To many, it was a revelation and members plan to return
to devote more time in future seasons.
After lunch, despite the wind, the sun shone for our tour of
the Royal Hospital guided by the inimitable Pensioners ‘Paddy’ and Tom. Their knowledge, anecdotes
and inside information delivered with such humour were a joy. What a splendid way to be introduced
to the building designed by Sir Christopher Wren, with alterations by Robert Adam and additions by
Sir John Soane. ‘A unique experience’, A very special day’ and ‘Shall remember our guide for all time’,
were just some of members’ comments.
Maureen Welsh and Diana Diggines