Not only is Hall Place & Gardens in Bexley home to London's least scary monsters, it now also boasts a collection of beautiful butterflies.
Officially opened in early August, the London Butterfly Gardens is an oasis of tropical plants and flowers set in the restored Main Glasshouse at the historic house and garden — replacing another butterfly house that was here before. It is, apparently, one of only three butterfly gardens in London — the others we assume, at the Horniman Museum and London Zoo.
The habitat is maintained at a temperature of 28°C with 75%-80% humidity, ideal both for the stunning winged creatures — which include Giant Atlas Moths and Glasswing butterflies (so-called because of their translucent wings) — and for the plants and flowers which the butterflies use to feed from, and lay eggs on.
In the near future, the gardens will also feature The Living World, a metropolis of jungle insects such as stick insects, praying mantises, jungle nymphs, katydids, spiders and leaf cutting ants. Says Hall Place: "Our aim is to educate the public about tropical natural history." Until that attraction arrives, entry to the butterfly garden will be a little cheaper.
The London Butterfly Gardens, Hall Place & Gardens, open daily. Separate charge to tour Hall Place itself. It's slightly cheaper if you book in advance online.
