But this week, I have had a break from gardening and time to play with my boys who are on half term. I have enjoyed being warm and not rushing! I have been lucky enough to be getting out and about so I haven't missed the great outdoors too much.
A different type of great outdoors though. This weekend I re-visited the Olympic Park, my second visit since 2012. What a change to that area of London, 2 or 3 stops on the train from where I used to live is Stratford station and Westfield, a huge buzzing shopping centre. Not only is it commercialism though, it leads you through to the Olympic sized space of trees, planting, playgrounds, cycle tracks and giant sculptures of crayons in the river. Even in the shopping centre (which in part is open to the elements) are trees with birds singing at dusk, flitting from tree to tree.
Once you enter the Olympic park, the space is immense as is the sky (which, as my friend pointed out, is rare in London to see so much uninterrupted sky). The planting is superb, mature pine trees making playgrounds seem like they have been established for years, grass borders which conjure up seaside boardwalks not city pavements. Not just lawns and verges but slopes to climb, short grass, wild grass, clovers, seating nestled in borders, Vinca and Ivy clinging as ground cover. The space allows you to breathe and be inspired. We made it into the Velodrome and viewed the Aquatic centre, two buildings which are beautiful and fluid in their design.
I was with a family of 5 city dwellers and really noticed how much they appreciated this space and planting. They all said they felt the space safe for their kids and relaxing for them and I think the planting has a lot to do with that. Not formal beds which are untouchable but plants to feel, to walk through, to hide in. Walkways with textures, activities, mirrors on bridges, reflections, water and sky. All a stones throw from town. A real treat.
Enjoyed your post, as usual! Interesting to hear your experience of Millenium Park, especially as someone visiting with children and your knowing the area prior to the Olympics, so really having a sense of its transformation... I've read about James Hitchmough's meadows, and seen photos, and they sound delightful, fluid, and, as you say, a landscape one can interact with, rather than merely observe...Very child-friendly which every city needs more of! Sounds like you're having fun with the famiy. Also, your photos of Heale look so tranquil and lovely. Hope to be able to see it one day. Have a great week : )
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