Tucked away between a couple of busy thoroughfares, these rectangular 5-acres are a lunchtime refuge for local office workers seeking daylight and greenery. At the southern end, away from Theobald’s Road, tranquillity is almost guaranteed as the Honourable Society of Gray’s Inn doesn’t allow children or dogs in the gardens. Surrounded by austere Georgian terraces and dotted with mature trees, the gardens play host to a smart, alfresco restaurant in the summer run from a marquee. For those in search of more modest dining, there are plenty of park benches on which to eat a takeaway from the local sandwich shops or fish and chips from the famous Fryer’s Delight on Theobald’s Road. Note that the imposing iron gates are locked before noon and after 2.30pm. 6/10
