Name: Crossrail Place Roof Garden
Address: Crossrail Pl, London E14 5AB, UK
Telephone: 020 7418 2000
Rating: 4.6

Greenery from around the world & performances in a lattice-roofed space atop a retail complex.

London Eye

Provided by Google

Buckingham Palace

Tower Bridge

The British Museum

Hyde Park

The garden is located at 51.5055° N latitude, placing it on a similar latitude to cities like Prague and Vancouver.

Global Positioning

The roof is made of ETFE, a transparent plastic also used in the Eden Project in Cornwall, allowing natural light to flood the garden.

Roof Material

The garden's location reflects the area's rich history as part of London's Docklands, once a bustling hub for international shipping.

Docklands History

Crossrail Place Roof Garden is one of London's largest roof gardens, offering a unique green space above a major transport hub.

Roof Garden Location

The planting scheme is divided into two halves, representing the eastern and western hemispheres, with plants sourced from around the world.

Planting Scheme

Crossrail Place Roof Garden

Crossrail Place Roof Garden, a verdant oasis nestled atop the Canary Wharf Crossrail station, presents a unique microclimate. Designed by Gillespies, the garden's glass roof creates a controlled environment, allowing for the cultivation of plant species from distant lands, specifically those found along the historic trade routes of the West India Docks. This curated collection offers a botanical journey, showcasing flora that once arrived in London via the very waterways the station now spans. The garden is divided into distinct sections, each reflecting a different geographical region and its associated plant life. A subtle irrigation system mimics natural rainfall patterns, ensuring the survival of these exotic species. The structure itself is a feat of engineering, supporting the weight of the soil and vegetation while allowing natural light to filter through to the station below. The roof garden offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city, a living testament to London's global connections and its history as a hub for international trade.

Introduction

Crossrail Place Roof Garden exemplifies a sustainable urban oasis through its innovative integration of green space within a major transport hub. The garden's design prioritizes biodiversity by featuring plant species from different continents that were historically connected through maritime trade, reflecting the area's docklands heritage. This curated selection supports a variety of insect and bird life, enhancing the ecological value of the urban environment. Sustainable drainage systems manage rainwater runoff, reducing strain on local infrastructure and providing irrigation for the garden. The garden's structure incorporates lightweight materials and green roof technology, minimizing its environmental impact and reducing the building's overall energy consumption. Open to the public, the garden offers a tranquil retreat for commuters and residents, promoting well-being and providing a connection to nature in a densely populated area. The garden's microclimate, influenced by the enclosed structure, allows for the cultivation of plant species that would not typically thrive in London's climate, further contributing to its unique ecological profile. Educational programs and community events held within the garden raise awareness about urban ecology and sustainable practices. By combining ecological design with public accessibility, Crossrail Place Roof Garden serves as a model for creating sustainable and engaging urban green spaces.

Sustainable Urban Oasis

Crossrail Place Roof Garden, a key element of Canary Wharf's commitment to public green spaces, distinguishes itself through its unique integration with transport infrastructure. Unlike traditional parks, it's nestled atop the Crossrail station, offering a tranquil escape above a bustling transport hub. Its location significantly expands the accessible green footprint within Canary Wharf, providing a publicly accessible park that is elevated and sheltered. The garden's design, inspired by the voyages of ships that once docked in the area, features plant species from distant lands, creating a botanical collection that reflects Canary Wharf's historical trading links. This curated selection of flora adds a layer of educational interest, setting it apart from typical urban parks.

The roof garden's climate-controlled environment, made possible by its enclosed structure, allows for year-round accessibility, a notable advantage in London's variable weather. This controlled setting also supports the growth of plant species that might not typically thrive in the local climate, enhancing the garden's biodiversity. As an integral part of Canary Wharf's public art program, the garden occasionally hosts installations and performances, further enriching the visitor experience. Its extended opening hours, relative to other parks, make it a valuable amenity for Canary Wharf's residents and workers, offering a green retreat even after typical park closing times. The integration of retail and dining options within the Crossrail Place building also complements the garden, creating a multifaceted destination within Canary Wharf's public realm.

Crossrail Place Roof Garden

Did You Know?

Global Positioning

Roof Material

Docklands History

Roof Garden Location

Highlights from Reviews

Location