Chiswick House Designates its Rosary as a Silent Space
Spot is believed to be the original English rose garden
The Rosary in the gardens is near the conservatory. Picture: Shot by Amol
June 24, 2025
A part of Chiswick House Gardens which is believed to be the first ever English rose garden is to be designated as a Silent Space.
The Rosary, which dates back to the start of the 19th century and is just to the west of the conservatory, will now be reserved for the quiet contemplation of nature.
The Silent Space initiative, started in 2016, encourages the creation of beautiful, biodiverse areas where people can take time out from their hectic daily lives to seek peace, appreciate nature, and temporarily escape the hustle and bustle of the modern world. The team at Chiswick House & Gardens Trust and the Silent Space Project believe this will deliver significant mental health benefits as research has shown that being purposefully quiet can increase relaxation levels and improve the mood state of participants. They say that the benefits of the new space are enhanced by the fact that it is located near to one of the Gardens’ woodland areas, recently rejuvenated as part of a project to boost biodiversity and support the site’s wildlife.
Chris Poole, a Specialist Volunteer at Chiswick House & Gardens Trust who has been integral to the creation of the Silent Space, said, “Over the past 3 years we've worked to bring out the natural beauty in the shape of the shrubs surrounding the traditional Rosary and created a woodland area to sit in silence to connect with nature around you.”
The Chiswick House Silent Space is the very first of these spaces to be created in a public park, open to everyone every day of the year.
Inspired by French gardens which were created for scent, colour and pleasure, the Chiswick House Rosary was created for Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire. It is now home to over a hundred heritage roses, as well as wildflower areas.
Liz Ware, founder of the Silent Space project, said, “Most of us realise that taking 5 minutes to reflect quietly in nature is restful and restorative. In a world where constant communication is the norm, it feels good to step back and press 'pause'. But how many of us make the time to do it? A big 'thank you' to the hardworking Chiswick team for giving us permission and the opportunity to switch off in such a beautiful place. Welcome to Silent Space. It's great to have you with us.”
Rosie Fyles, Head of Gardens at Chiswick House & Gardens Trust and a Trustee of the Silent Space Charity, added, “Silence and reflection is what some people seek in a garden, and I am very happy that we have developed such a beautiful, historic space to have this atmosphere and purpose. Our planting and caring for the garden will continue to be inspired by its history and support biodiversity too.”
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