Finsbury Circus Gardens | finsbury ˈsɜːkəs ˈɡɑːdn̩z | | fins-bury ser-kes ga-dnz |

Realm

Client: City of London Corporation

Finsbury Circus Gardens is one of the UK’s most important park regenerations.

The site of London's first public park dating back to 1606, and the largest green space in the Square Mile, Finsbury Circus Gardens has a fascinating history, from the natural processes that formed it to the communities that helped shape it. The original green space was created through a natural and man-made process, when London Wall partially dammed the River Walbrook, creating a marshy fen, which gave its name to ‘Fens-bury’. For centuries the park has acted as a haven to serve the community, from providing a ground for archery, drying of clothes and walks, to a temporary tented living space for those displaced during the Great Fire of London and Black Death, and was a former site of Bethlem Royal Hospital (also known as ‘Bedlam’) England's first psychiatric hospital. The site forms part of a key pedestrian network linking Liverpool Street station to the east, Moorgate station to the west, and London Wall to the south, and underfoot presents challenging below ground conditions with the top of the Metropolitan Railway tunnel only 60cm beneath the lawn at the eastern end. The park was occupied by Crossrail between 2010-2020 for construction of the Elizabeth Line and following completion, an open global competition was launched to innovatively rethink the Grade II Listed 0.9 hectare public space. The winning landscape and public realm design by Realm, who worked with Studio Weave to incorporate a new Parks Office, creates a revitalised public space for future generations to enjoy - a tranquil haven for people and nature, with increased equitable space and accessibility, improving biodiversity with new planting palettes and trees selected for climate change and resilience. Historical research informed both the concept design and material selection. Kentish Ragstone references the Roman Wall, serpentine paths echo the River Walbrook, and an inner Limestone oval reflects the surrounding Portland stone circus. The engagement strategy brought together statutory and non-statutory stakeholders, residents, neighbours, political voices, local businesses and community groups. Pop-up garden events let people meet the project team, review the proposals and share views directly, ensuring the final design reflected a broad and inclusive dialogue. Community feedback was overwhelmingly positive, reflecting robust proposals and an inclusive, adaptive process. Enhancements include new pathways that improve accessibility, increased seating to encourage increased dwell time, a central lawn for gatherings and events; and new planting to create a more welcoming environment and boost biodiversity. The completed public space supports people’s health and wellbeing, playing a vital role in climate resilience and biodiversity, and delivers upon the City’s vision for a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable City. The large number of people using the garden is testament to its value to the local community and other visitors. This landmark renewal project reflects the City Corporation’s ambition in attracting businesses, workers, and visitors to the Square Mile – ensuring that the City continues to play a leading role in driving both London’s and the UK’s economy.