A Day of Gardening and Networking
In May, I spent a day volunteering alongside my colleagues at the beautiful Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, where we swapped our keyboards for gardening gloves and learned how to care for one of East London's most treasured green spaces. It was a wonderful chance to give something back to the local community while connecting with people from across the wider Marsh team, and I came away with a new appreciation for the hidden history right on our doorstep.
A Warm Welcome to the Park
The day began with a heartfelt introduction from a member of the Friends of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park team, who shared just how much this place means to the local community. I was fascinated to learn that the park has served as a backdrop for various TV shows and films, and that it plays host to a vibrant calendar of events throughout the year, from lively summer fairs to atmospheric Halloween gatherings. Hearing about the park's rich role in the community gave real meaning to the work we were about to do.
Getting Our Hands Dirty: Gardening and Restoration
With the history and context in mind, we were then taught the practical gardening techniques we would be using for our restoration activities that day. Our guide walked us through clear instructions on the tasks ahead, along with thoughtful health and safety guidance to make sure everyone could take part confidently and safely. It was genuinely rewarding to learn hands-on skills I had never tried before( even if I didn’t have the best green thumb!) and to see the immediate difference our efforts made to the space around us.
What I Took Away
Beyond the gardening, one of the most valuable parts of the day was the opportunity to network and connect with intelligent, friendly people from across the wider Marsh team whom I might never have met otherwise. I left feeling inspired by the sense of community, both within our team and within the park itself, and grateful to have contributed to preserving such a special place. If you ever get the chance to volunteer at Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take it - reach out to the Friends of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park to find out how you can get involved, and discover this hidden gem for yourself.