Greenwich's Hidden Getaway

Everyone likes a little escapism.

We've got Escape to the Country, for you rurally-inspired folk; or there's Escape to the Chateau, for the Francophiles amongst you; and there's even Wanted Down Under, which isn't about dangerous people, promise.

But we've yet to get anything Greenwich-themed. No escapes-to, or grab-a-life-ins, or wanted-over-theres.

And that might be a shame. But could also be an opportunity. Especially for those who know Greenwich's wonderful nooks, lovely crannies, and hidden gems.

Which is one of the joys of being part of this lovely group, because we get to explore our little corner's less-known delights.

As we did last night at the gorgeous Ballast Quay garden. Sitting right on the Thames, this small touch of green is still a working wharf by law, but is now more often used by the residents living close by. As well as by the general public every June when they swing their doors open for a charity weekend, raising oodles of funds for local hospices.

We were a summer-sized group yesterday, welcoming a new friend from Lewisham (welcome, Paul!); and following a swift and happy warm up, this merry group jogged the short river-saddled journey to Ballast Quay.

Met by the wonderfully interesting, funny, and warm Diane (and her lovely labrador, Tom), we got to work weeding, pruning, cutting, and tidying.

It's always special seeing a GoodGym group make heavy work look so easy - and in minutes, we had mounds of shorn green excess ready to dispose of. And they kept on going until they'd given this garden a well-deserved spring clean.

Thanks for a lovely evening, folks! And do just holla if you fancy joining forces for our very own Greenwich-based show...