Join us on 15 May from 3:30pm for a summery afternoon party in Red Cross Garden, featuring maypole dancing led by Mike Ruff and Anwen Hobday of The May Team. We’ll also have flower themed crafts and garden games to keep you busy!
May Party
Date: 15 May 2025
Time: 3.30pm-5.30pm
Location: Red Cross Garden, Redcross Way, London SE1 1HA
(Accessible toilet available, step free garden, ample seating)
Mike, co-author of The Maypole Manual, will also be training staff, volunteers, and local residents to help keep this tradition alive for future generations.
20 years of Bankside Open Spaces Trust in Red Cross Garden
This year marks 20 years since we took over the care of the garden and restored it to its original Victorian design. Created in 1886 by social reformer and National Trust founder Octavia Hill, the garden once featured a maypole that was central to local community gatherings. When we reopened the restored garden in 2006, we celebrated with maypole dancing, and we’ve been joyfully reviving the tradition ever since.
