As part of Volunteer Week 2026, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the incredible people who generously give their time to make the Garden so special.
Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. Without their dedication and support, we wouldn’t be able to provide visitors with the exceptional experience they have come to expect from the Garden.
From horticulture to learning, administration to maintenance, our passionate team of volunteers plays a vital role in every aspect of the Garden. Their commitment, enthusiasm and hard work help ensure that the Garden continues to thrive.
We have asked some of the team to share their stories and how they came to the Garden, read them below.
Eileen
What is your role at Chelsea Physic Garden?
I volunteer as a guide and in the learning department.
What makes Chelsea Physic Garden special?
I think the sense of tranquillity as you enter the garden. It literally is a green oasis in the heart of London. There is something about the history of healing plants that has a healing, calming effect when you spend time here.
Why did you want to start volunteering at Chelsea Physic Garden?
It complements my love of plants, gardening and nature.
What is your favourite thing about volunteering at Chelsea Physic Garden?
I have learnt so much and I love watching the garden change in all the seasons. I learn something new every time I am here.
Sally
What is your role at Chelsea Physic Garden?
My role at CPG is to deal efficiently, effectively – and courteously – with telephone and e-mail enquiries. And, in addition, to offer a helpful pair of hands to any Department which needs assistance.
What makes Chelsea Physic Garden special?
The Garden is a particularly special area of botanical interest in the midst of a London borough. It offers an educational experience of inestimable value to the school and community groups who visit – and provides not only a peaceful space to those who appreciate an oasis of calm in the busy city, but a constant learning experience in terms of planting.
Why did you want to start volunteering at Chelsea Physic Garden?
I had not thought of volunteering in any capacity while working full-time, but was persuaded, once I had finished my main career, to consider the Admin volunteering role, by a current Garden Volunteer. I have not regretted it!
What is your favourite thing about volunteering at Chelsea Physic Garden?
My favourite thing about Volunteering? Never a dull moment – every Tuesday brings a different challenge!
Yan
What is your role at Chelsea Physic Garden?
I am a volunteer gardener in the Horticulture Department.
What makes Chelsea Physic Garden special?
Chelsea Physic Garden is one of the oldest botanic gardens in the UK and Europe. Although it is relatively small compared with many newer, large-scale botanic gardens, it has an incredible variety of plants, thoughtfully grouped by themes such as food, medicine and practical use.
What I find especially beautiful is the way these special plants are curated with a very naturalistic aesthetic. Even on a short walk through the Garden, you can always come across a beautiful corner or an interesting plant.
Why did you want to start volunteering at Chelsea Physic Garden?
I am currently studying for the RHS Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture, and I hope to become a professional gardener in the future. Volunteering at Chelsea Physic Garden gives me the chance to learn how a proper botanic garden is run, and to observe best practice in horticulture within such a significant historic garden.
What is your favourite thing about volunteering at Chelsea Physic Garden?
One day in early spring, I saw a gardening trainee pick up a weak bee from the ground and gently place it on a cherry blossom. I kept checking on the bee for the rest of the day, and by feeding on the nectar, it gradually regained its energy. It was one of the most beautiful scenes I have ever seen.
I think my favourite thing about volunteering here is the kindness of the horticulture team and the other volunteers. They are warm-hearted, generous people, and it is always a pleasure to work with them.
