Towers and Gardens Tour on Thorney Island

Join Jan Pancheri, former Head Gardener at Westminster Abbey, for a walking tour that uncovers how the historic Thorney Island, a once marshy eyot transformed over centuries into the landscaped green spaces central to Westminster’s architectural and natural heritage. Jan will share her expert insights into the area’s evolution, blending historical anecdotes with a deep understanding of its gardens and landmarks.

We will meet outside The Jewel Tower and make our way to the starting point at Poets Green and Henry VII’s Chapel, exploring various sites along the route and finishing at Victoria Tower Gardens.

More about Jan

Jan trained as an artist and wrote and illustrated children's books, until she turned to horticulture as a second career. She designed gardens for Gardening Which? Magazine while studying at Capel Manor College, and wrote articles for the Independent newspaper, before becoming Head Gardener at Westminster Abbey. Here she continued her two loves: writing books and working in a garden, by creating 'Brother William's Year' for children and later 'The Gardens of Westminster Abbey' guidebook.

Working outside has given Jan a unique perspective on the land of Thorney Island. After 25 years she has hung up her gardening gloves for good, to devote her time to sharing her passion for some of the lesser-known aspects of this famous part of London.

Host or Publisher The Thorney Island Society