Why is it called Chelsea Physic Garden?
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The Garden’s location feels special and secret. It is nestled behind walls and positioned close to the River Thames. The ideal Thames location is no accident as back in 1673 the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries chose their Chelsea village site for its proximity to the river to make the most of its warm air currents.
Why is it called physic garden?
This four acre physic garden, the term here referring to the science of healing, is among the oldest botanical gardens in Britain, after the University of Oxford Botanic Garden. Its rock garden is the oldest in Europe devoted to alpine plants and Mediterranean plants.
Who started Chelsea Physic Garden?

Apothecaries
In 1673 the Worshipful Company of Apothecaries founded the Chelsea Physic Garden as a training ground for their apprentices. They leased a plot of land of c 1ha which had a 100m frontage onto the River Thames and by 1679 1200 different plants were recorded there.
Are dogs allowed in Chelsea Physic Garden?
Are dogs allowed in the Physic Garden? Registered support dogs are welcome please leave all other pets at home as we can’t let you bring them into the Garden, in order to protect the plants.
What grows in a Physic Garden?
Medicinal Herbs

- Purple Sage.
- Melissa.
- Peppermint.
- Thyme.
- Rosemary.
- Fennel.
- Damask Rose.
- Englisher Lavender.
What grows in a physic garden?
What is in a physic garden?
A physic garden is a type of herb garden with medicinal plants. Botanical gardens developed from them.
How old is Chelsea Physic Garden?
Support us. Since 1673 Chelsea Physic Garden has occupied four acres of land on the edge of the Thames. First established by the Apothecaries in order to grow medicinal plants, this extraordinary garden in London has had wide reaching impact around the world.
What can you grow in a medicinal herb garden?
Five Basic Herbs Every medicinal garden should include chamomile, yarrow, lemon balm, echinacea and peppermint. These five basics are safe and effective for the vast majority of people when used as simple teas, poultices or salves.
How do you make a herb garden?
How to Plant a Kitchen Herb Garden
- Suggested Herbs.
- Pick a Location.
- Prepare the Area for Planting.
- Dig Planting Holes.
- Add Plants to Soil.
- Label Herbs.
- Surround With Flowering Plants.
- Water Regularly.
Can I take my dog to Wakehurst Place?
Dogs are not permitted, except for assistance dogs. Car parking donations apply. You can find out more information on the Wakehurst website.
Can I take my dog to RHS Rosemoor?
Dogs in the garden For the safety of all our visitors only guide and registered support dogs are allowed on site. Please do not leave dogs in our car parks, there is no shaded parking available – see more information about animal welfare.