The Artillery Garden At The Hac

So, there I was, wandering around the City of London, trying to find a spot for a quiet lunch. You know how it is, right? The usual suspects were packed, and I was craving something a bit different. That's when I stumbled upon this hidden gem, The Artillery Garden at the HAC.

Now, I've lived in London for what feels like a lifetime, but I'd never heard of this place. It's like they've tucked it away in a secret corner, just for us curious souls who like to explore off the beaten path. I mean, who would've thought you'd find a lush garden oasis right in the heart of the Square Mile?

What's the Deal with This Garden?

Alright, let's rewind a bit. The HAC, or Honourable Artillery Company, is one of the oldest military organisations in the UK. They've been around since 1537, which is like, ancient history, right? Anyway, they've got this massive plot of land, and they've turned a chunk of it into a beautiful public garden. How cool is that?

But here's the thing, it's not just any garden. It's got this old-school charm, with its elegant terrace, manicured lawns, and even a little lake. It's like they've taken a slice of the English countryside and plonked it down in the middle of the city. I'm not complaining, though. It's a breath of fresh air, literally.

Food and Drink

Now, back to my lunch quest. The Artillery Garden has this lovely café, The Garden Café, where I found a table in the sun. They've got a great menu, all locally sourced and seasonal. I went for the fish and chips, because, you know, when in London... It was delicious, and the portions were generous. I'd say it's a bit on the pricier side, but you're paying for the location and the atmosphere, right?

And speaking of atmosphere, they've got this awesome terrace bar, The Garden Bar. It's the perfect spot for a post-work drink, or a lazy weekend afternoon. They've got a great selection of drinks, from craft beers to fancy cocktails. I might've had a couple of G&Ts while I was there. Don't judge me, it was a sunny day!

Events and Weddings

So, you're thinking, this place sounds great, but what else is there to do? Well, let me tell you, they've got a packed events calendar. From summer concerts to Christmas parties, there's always something going on. And if you're looking for a unique wedding venue, they've got that covered too. I mean, can you imagine getting married in a garden like this? Dreamy, right?

Oh, and here's a little insider tip for you. They've got this thing called the 'Garden Pass'. It's like a membership card that gets you discounts on food and drink, and access to some exclusive events. Not a bad deal if you're a regular, huh?

Visiting the Garden

Alright, so you're sold, and you're ready to visit. Here's what you need to know. The garden is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to sunset. It's free to enter, which is a bonus, right? Just remember to check their website before you go, as opening times can vary depending on events.

And one more thing, the garden is a bit of a hidden gem, so it might take a bit of effort to find it. But trust me, it's worth it. Just follow the signs for the HAC, and you'll be there in no time.

So, there you have it. The Artillery Garden at the HAC, the perfect spot for a quiet lunch, a sunny drink, or a unique wedding venue. Who would've thought, huh? Until next time, happy exploring!