Monty Don Presents Exclusive Look at Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Garden
A special one-hour episode of BBC Gardeners' World, airing tonight on Friday, April 17, offers viewers an unprecedented behind-the-scenes tour of the newly completed Queen Elizabeth II Garden in Regent's Park. Presented by renowned horticulturist Monty Don, the program documents the remarkable two-year transformation of a former disused plant nursery into a stunning two-acre tribute garden dedicated to the late monarch.
Royal Inspiration Behind the Garden Design
The garden's design draws direct inspiration from Queen Elizabeth II's lifelong passion for horticulture, incorporating elements reminiscent of her favorite landscapes at Buckingham Palace and Frogmore. Central to the design is a wildlife-supporting circular pond and a meticulously planned central flower garden featuring species with special significance to the late Queen.
Notable plantings include:
- Lily of the valley, which was the Queen's favorite flower and featured prominently in her coronation bouquet
- A specially selected magnolia that typically blooms in April, coinciding with the late Queen's birthday
- Agapanthus varieties gifted from the Royal Collection at Windsor Great Park
- Symbolic oak and elm trees representing the strength and endurance of the monarchy
Royal Plant Varieties and Horticultural Significance
The garden showcases numerous plants with direct royal associations, including specially cultivated varieties such as Narcissus 'Diamond Jubilee', Tulipa 'Royal Celebration', Acer campestre 'Queen Elizabeth', and Magnolia 'Windsor Beauty'. Each selection has been carefully chosen to reflect different aspects of Queen Elizabeth II's reign and personal preferences.
The Gardeners' World episode follows the project from its initial demolition phase through to final planting, featuring appearances from the dedicated team at Hyde Park Nursery who supplied many of the plants. Fiona Packe, Head Gardener for The Queen Elizabeth II Garden at The Royal Parks, expressed her enthusiasm about the collaboration.
"Being part of this project has been an extraordinary privilege," said Packe. "Having the Gardeners' World team with us over two years, from the very first days on site to the final planting, has been incredibly special. We hope the episode gives viewers a real sense of the care, craft and passion that have gone into every corner of this garden, and that it inspires them to come and visit when we open."
Location and Public Opening Details
The Queen Elizabeth II Garden is strategically located adjacent to the Broad Walk in Regent's Park, positioned behind the Espresso Bar on Chester Road. The garden occupies the space between St. John's Lodge Garden and the Longbridge Sanctuary, creating a new horticultural destination within one of London's most beloved Royal Parks.
The garden will officially open to the public on Monday, April 27, a date carefully chosen to coincide with the late Queen's centenary year celebrations. This timing adds special significance to the garden's debut, creating a living memorial that honors Queen Elizabeth II's legacy during this commemorative period.
The special Gardeners' World episode featuring this exclusive look at the Queen Elizabeth II Garden airs on BBC Two and will be available on iPlayer starting Friday, April 17 at 8pm. The program promises to provide gardening enthusiasts and royal admirers alike with comprehensive insights into this remarkable horticultural tribute.
