Kensington roof gardens formerly known as derry and toms roof gardens and later the roof gardens is a private roof garden covering 6 000 square metres 65 000 sq ft on top of the former derry toms building on kensington high street in central london.
Why did the roof gardens close kensington high street.
The kensington roof gardens are located at 99 kensington high st kensington london w8 5sa.
Originally opened in 1938 the gardens were open to the public until january 2018 when the leaseholder virgin limited edition was unable.
Kensington roof gardens one of london s best known party venues is to close after its owner of more than 35 years virgin said a challenging market meant it had struggled to make a profit.
The grade ii listed gardens were designed in 1936 by landscape architect ralph hancock as part of the derry toms department store.
Overall the gardens comprise of 1 5 hectares of land and the soil is many inches thick 18 to be precise perfect for growing all manner of plants and flowers.
The site at 99 kensington high street consists of the sixth and seventh floors of the former derry toms store.
Since virgin took over the lease in 1981 kensington roof gardens has played host to weddings and concerts but it s also gained notoriety as one of london s most famous party venues often featuring the rich and famous.
It played a key part in the london nightlife scene showcasing top djs and live musical talent from across the decades as well as hosting numerous events showbiz parties award ceremonies weddings and dinners in its award winning restaurant babylon.
The plan is for the roof gardens to reopen in late 2019 or early 2020 mr rose said.