Grounded Ecotherapy
You probably know about the garden on top of our Queen Elizabeth Hall, but do you know the story behind it?
Our Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden was opened in 2011, having been created by Grounded Ecotherapy in partnership with The Eden Project.
Founded in 2005 by Paul Pulford, Grounded Ecotherapy is two things; an award-winning team of passionate conservationists as well as a pioneering recovery programme. This programme provides support for a team of incredible gardening volunteers, some of whom may have experienced problems with substance dependency, mental health and/or homelessness, by providing therapy through horticulture.
Together they have created and maintain a green oasis on the South Bank, with over 200 different native wild plants and flowers thriving between a luscious lawn and a canopy of trees. As well as being a great spot to relax and enjoy views of the city skyline, the garden also hosts events and tours during the year.
Pulford continues to lead the project today as our Southbank Centre head gardener. He and his Grounded Ecotherapy team are open to referrals to volunteer in the garden joining them in their work.
Local to Lambeth or Southwark? Discover the benefits of ecotherapy here in our flourishing roof garden.
Listen to Ground & Sound, a collection of original audio works created using the sounds of our Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden