In summer and autumn 2024, audience research agency Indigo carried out a new study to better understand who visits Jubilee Gardens, how they use the space, and how they feel about it. The Jubilee Gardens visitor research 2024 builds on a similar study completed in 2016, allowing us to see what’s changed over time.
The study involved face-to-face interviews in the Gardens, along with online surveys shared through local networks and community groups well as by our website and social media. In total, 736 people took part across all channels during August and October 2024.
The results of the Jubilee Gardens visitor research 2024 show that the Gardens continue to be highly valued by their users, with perceptions improving steadily since 2016. In the latest research, 95% of respondents rated the Gardens as ‘good’ or ‘very good’, up from over 90% in 2016. The proportion of users describing the space as ‘very good’ has increased notably, from 40% in 2016 to 58% in 2024, reflecting growing appreciation across all groups, including residents, workers, and visitors from both within and outside London.
You can read about the results in more detail below, or click to download the full debrief here.
Who took part?
Participants fell into four main groups:
- Residents – living locally (SE1 or SE11)
- Workers – people who work nearby
- Visitors from within London
- Visitors from outside London, including international tourists
What did we learn?
Overall feelings are positive
- Nearly all respondents (95% overall) rated the Gardens as ‘good’ or ‘very good’, with visitors from outside London being the most enthusiastic.
- Most agreed the Gardens are a real asset to the South Bank and help improve the area.
- The percentage of users rating the Gardens as ‘very good’ has risen significantly, from 40% in 2016 to 58% in 2024.
- Residents in particular expressed more positive views than in previous years, highlighting a strengthened local connection to this important green space.
The Gardens are well used and well loved
- Many use the space to relax, walk along the river, or enjoy lunch outdoors.
- Families love the playground, with 94% or more agreeing it’s a great feature – a big rise in positivity compared to 2016.
“I just think of those colourful flowers and the fresh air, and I feel like I’ve relaxed my whole body,” said one resident.
A favourite for families
- Residents and visitors from outside London were the most likely to visit with children.
- Most people feel the play equipment is suitable for children of all abilities, and awareness of the free playground is very high.
Green space matters
- Many described the greenery as “a welcome relief from the busy South Bank,” especially locals and workers.
- A few people mentioned they’d like to see even more plants and flowers.
“It’s a wonderful place. I feel very uplifted there and I love living close to these gardens.” – Resident
Different ways of using the Gardens
- Workers are the most likely to pass through the Gardens on their way to and from work.
- Residents spend more time relaxing here and are the most frequent visitors – some coming several times a week.
“The open green space is incredible for adults working and living in the city.” – Worker
Some concerns
- Some locals feel the Gardens are “too touristy” or “too crowded” at times, though this response was much less evident than in 2016
- Comments also included suggestions for more seating, improved toilet facilities, and better maintenance of planting, grassy areas and bins.
- A few residents and workers raised safety concerns after dark.
Understanding management
- Many people assumed the Gardens were run by the local council – but the Gardens are actually managed by a dedicated local Trust.
- Some called for more visible management or clearer signage about who looks after the space.
“Jubilee Gardens is well kept and I’ve always seen workers going around, cleaning it up as well as looking after the plants.” – Worker
