Ham Open Gardens – Sunday 17 May 2026
Come through the garden gate of many private gardens in Ham

Ham Open Gardens 2026 will take place on Sunday 17 May from 12-5pm, giving the public a unique opportunity to visit a selection of the most beautiful private gardens around Ham Common, near to Richmond in south-west London. 

The event will take visitors on a fascinating journey through a variety of gardens which reflect the area’s rich and diverse history, from the 18th century through to the present day. Over 20 gardens will be open, including extensive traditional gardens belonging to grand Georgian houses, highly innovative contemporary schemes and charming cottage gardens, in addition to some of the area’s much-loved community gardens.

In addition to meandering around the gardens in this exceptionally beautiful corner of greater London, visitors will be able to enjoy teas and delicious homemade cakes served at St Thomas Aquinas Church near the pond on Ham Common.

The beautiful grade 2 listed building, St Andrews Church Ham will be open. There will regular architectural tours of the church throughout the afternoon and the notable highlights in the graveyard as well as performances by the choirs from the local primary schools. A BBQ with salad will be served in the Church hall with a Pimm’s’ and beer bar iced lollies and soft drinks. Choirs from The Russell School and Meadlands will be singing in St Andrews during the afternoon of Ham Open Gardens.

I’m so pleased to be attending this great community event which provides such support for local charities. I look forward to visiting the beautiful St Andrew’s churchyard and welcoming everyone to the church hall BBQ.
The Rt Revd Dr Martin Gainsborough, Bishop

The event is a ‘must’ not only for keen horticulturalists, but for anyone who simply enjoys a wonderful day out in an exceptional part of Richmond. All of the gardens are within short walking distance of Ham Common, which is easily accessible by public transport (on the No. 65 and 371 bus routes from Richmond station).

Early bird tickets are £12 each (available from end-March up until the day before the event) or £15 on the day,  either online or from a stall on Ham Common. Accompanied children aged 16 and under are free.

‘We are delighted to be a part of Ham Open Gardens this year and to be one of the beneficiary charities. This wonderful community event helps people to connect and enjoy the beauty of nature. As a small, independent local charity helping elderly and disabled people to remain active, engaged, and independent, the funds donated will go directly to support the people we help in our community. Thank you for choosing our charity and to everyone involved in creating Ham Open Gardens.’ Jill Hancock, Manager  Ham and Petersham SOS.

Ham Open Gardens is a wonderful example of what makes our community so special. Not only does it bring people together to enjoy the beauty and creativity of local gardens, but it also makes a meaningful difference to local charities like Home-Start Richmond, Kingston and Hounslow. The funds raised help us continue supporting families who need it most, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who opens their gardens, volunteers their time, and comes along to take part.” Sarah Villegas, Head of Marketing and Fundraising at Home-Start RKH.

Ham Open Gardens is made possible by the support of young people from Grey Court School and Marymount International School London, as well as local volunteers. Proceeds from the event will go to Home-Start UK (a charity supporting young families) in the area, Ham and Petersham SOS (a neighbourhood care group for older and vulnerable local residents) and the Ham and Petersham Association and Amenities Group, which organises the event.