From a muddy bog to beautiful botanical displays there is something in the gardens for everyone. Explore  our display gardens, get closer to wildlife on our nature trail or discover hidden historical and architectural treasures:

The Totem Pole

Carved in 1985 as part of the American Arts Festival by Nathan Jackson, a Tingit Indian from Alaska, our totem pole is now firmly established as a south London landmark.

The Conservatory

A Grade II listed Victorian cast iron Conservatory originally built at the Horniman family house at Coombe Cliffe, Croydon, in 1894. By 1982, it had fallen into disrepair. The structure was dismantled and moved to its current site where it was beautifully restored with the help of English Heritage. It re-opened in 1988 and is used for performances, workshops and as a function room.

The Conservatory is available for hire. Visit our venue hire pages for more information and contact Suzanne James for more information.

Sundials

Discover our sundials by taking our sundial trail. Find the stained glass dial at the Conservatory to start you exploration and learn how to use sundials.

South Downs

A quiet contemplative area at the eastern edge of the site offering views over Kent and the South Downs. Perfect for a picnic.

Meadow field

A large green space below the Bandstand and the area of the Gardens where dogs are allowed off the lead. The area originally included a boating pond, constructed in the 1920's, but this was drained and resurfaced in the 1960's and is now used as a play area.

The Dutch Barn (re-opening 2012)

The Dutch Barn dates from around 1895 and was brought back from Holland by Frederick Horniman. It is used for education sessions but also provides a shelter for the public.

Band stand (re-opening 2012)

Enjoy a breathtaking vista of London from this recently restored Bandstand built in 1903 from a design by Charles Harrison Townsend. It is a focal point for our outdoor summer events programme such as concerts or film screenings.

Sunken Garden (re-opening 2012)

Built in 1936, the Arts and Crafts style Sunken Garden has spectacular floral displays in spring and late summer. It is now part of our Display Gardens and contains plants used as natural dyes.