Hidden Garden Events in Bloomsbury: Why The Montague on the Gardens Should Be on Your Summer Radar

Usually accessible only to local residents with a key, these historic private gardens provide a rare green oasis in the heart of central London. This summer, thanks to a partnership between The Montague on the Gardens and the neighbouring Bedford Estates, visitors have the chance to enjoy a series of exclusive events in this coveted setting.

If you’re looking for something a little different from the usual rooftop bars and crowded parks, here’s what’s coming up:

Celebrate London Open Gardens Weekend with Afternoon Tea

6th & 7th June 2026

As part of London’s annual Open Gardens weekend, guests can enjoy afternoon tea overlooking the gardens while taking the opportunity to explore one of Bloomsbury’s most beautiful private green spaces. For Londoners, it’s a rare chance to step inside gardens that are normally off limits, while visitors to the capital can experience a quieter side of the city that many tourists never discover. Expect manicured lawns, mature trees, colourful planting and a distinctly timeless atmosphere just moments from the bustle of Oxford Street and Covent Garden.

Price: £39 per person

Includes: Entry to Montague Street Gardens and a beautifully prepared Afternoon Tea presented in a takeaway box. Collected from the garden gate at your chosen time, each box features a selection of delicate sandwiches, freshly baked scones and seasonal cakes. Drinks are not included, though a pop-up bar will be available in the gardens, with beverages payable on the day.

Shakespeare Under the Stars: Othello

14th July 2026

One of the highlights of the summer calendar will be an outdoor performance of Othello by The Lord Chamberlain’s Men. Known for performing Shakespeare as it would have been staged in the playwright’s day, the all-male touring company brings a wonderfully authentic feel to classic productions.

There’s something magical about watching Shakespeare in the open air, particularly in a setting as atmospheric as Montague Street Gardens. Pack a picnic, settle into your seat and enjoy one of the Bard’s most powerful dramas beneath the summer sky.

The hotel is offering a package which includes an overnight room, breakfast, two tickets to the play including a welcome drink each.

To book: Contact the hotel to book

An Evening of Live Jazz in the Gardens

16th July 2026

A few days later, the gardens will swap Shakespeare for smooth jazz with an intimate live music evening in the heart of Bloomsbury.

As London summer evenings go, this sounds hard to beat. Live music, a beautiful garden setting and the elegant surroundings of The Montague on the Gardens create the perfect excuse for a midweek escape from the office.

Price:  £25 per person, including one complimentary drink (wine, beer, or soft drink). 

Details: Taking place from 5pm to 9pm, guests are invited to enjoy an evening of music and conversation surrounded by one of London’s most charming hidden gardens

Why These Events Appeal to Londoners

As a born-and-bred Londoner, I love discovering experiences that reveal a different side of the city.

While London’s famous landmarks attract the headlines, it’s often these smaller, more intimate events that leave the strongest memories. The chance to spend time in one of Bloomsbury’s hidden private gardens, whether for afternoon tea, Shakespeare or jazz, feels wonderfully old-school London. The sort of experience that reminds you why this city never stops surprising you.

Address: 15 Montague Street, London WC1B 5BJ

Nearest tube: Tottenham Court Road, Holborn or Russell Square