Sensory Garden - Harrow Lodge Park
Nestled within Harrow Lodge Park, the Sensory Garden has become one of Havering’s most cherished community spaces. What began as a specialist garden designed for people with visual impairments has evolved into a peaceful sanctuary enjoyed by residents of all ages and abilities. Its story is one of decline, renewal, resilience and above all, community spirit.
The roots of the Sensory Garden can be traced back to the early 1960s when a “Garden for the Blind” was established within Harrow Lodge Park. Opened in 1961, it featured wider pathways, aromatic planting and a distinctive dolphin fountain whose sound helped visitors navigate and experience the space. The garden was specifically designed to engage senses beyond sight, creating an inclusive environment for those with visual impairments.
Like many specialist public gardens across the country, the Garden for the Blind gradually suffered from reduced funding and changing priorities in park management. During the late twentieth century, changes to local authority horticultural services and the closure of municipal nurseries affected the maintenance of many public green spaces.
Along with the loss of a much loved gardener Fred, over time, parts of the garden became neglected and its original features deteriorated.
Although the space remained valued by local residents, much of its original purpose and character risked being lost.
That was until Havering Volunteer stepped up in October 2016!
The garden’s fortunes changed dramatically thanks to the dedication of volunteers and community organisations. In recent years, local residents and the Havering Volunteer Centre have worked tirelessly to restore and reimagine the site.
As restoration efforts gathered pace, the garden became known as the “Secret Garden” or Sensory Garden, reflecting both its hidden location within the park and its renewed focus on sensory experiences. Funding campaigns and community initiatives helped improve accessibility, enhance planting schemes and introduce features specifically aimed at supporting sensory-impaired visitors. A successful community fundraising project in 2021 raised money for Braille improvements and enhancements to the garden’s facilities.
Today, the Sensory Garden serves a much broader role than originally envisaged. It is not only a space for sensory exploration but also a place of remembrance, relaxation and social connection.
The garden has become a sanctuary where visitors can enjoy nature, remember loved ones, meet friends and improve their mental wellbeing. For many users who lack access to private gardens, it provides an essential connection with the natural world.
The carefully selected planting encourages visitors to engage through touch, scent, sound and seasonal colour, ensuring the garden remains welcoming to people of all abilities.
The garden benefits from a regular group of mixed ability volunteers who undertake general gardening duties during the week with the additional support from corporate volunteer days.
If you are interested in volunteering at the Sensory Garden please email volunteering@haveringvc.org.uk
Additionally, you can also support the upkeep of the garden via the Havering Local Lottery whihc helps us to fundraise for tools and plants: https://www.haveringlocallottery.co.uk/support/friends-of-the-secret-blind-garden