The Washington National Cathedral is located on a small hill to the northwest of the National Mall, the heart of tourism in Washington D.C. The cathedral’s grounds are vast, with various buildings such as schools and cafes surrounding it, and green spaces and gardens interspersed between them.
This time, let me introduce the beautifully landscaped Bishop’s Garden, one of the green spaces within the cathedral’s grounds.
Located about 2 miles north of Georgetown, the upscale shopping district in the western part of Washington, D.C., wher...
Location of the Bishop’s Garden
The Bishop’s Garden is situated on the south side of the cathedral, just down the road next to St. Paul’s Tower. As you walk down the path, you’ll notice a slightly elevated wall with only one arched entrance, and there you’ll find a sign for the Bishop’s Garden.
Exquisite Gardens Utilizing the Topography
As you move south from the Washington National Cathedral, which sits atop the hill, the land gradually slopes downward. The Bishop’s Garden takes advantage of this topography and is built one level below the cathedral.
Because of this layout, the garden provides an upward view of the cathedral, allowing you to appreciate its magnificent exterior from a different angle. Upon passing through the arched entrance, you’ll find stairs flanked by flowers in bloom throughout the seasons. Going down the stairs, you’ll encounter a pavilion made of stone and wood, from which you can enjoy a framed view of the cathedral.
Continuing down from the pavilion, you’ll reach an outdoor chapel surrounded by seasonal flowers, offering a tranquil place for moments of prayer and reflection.
Best Time for Strolling in the Garden
The Bishop’s Garden is at its best from early spring to late autumn, as various flowers bloom during this period. The ideal visiting time is in the morning, preferably on weekdays. On Sundays, the cathedral holds services, which means that tourists who do not attend the service can only view the cathedral from the outside. Consequently, the Bishop’s Garden tends to be crowded with many visitors on Sundays. Weekday mornings provide a more peaceful and enjoyable experience.
The area around the cathedral is a quiet residential neighborhood, and on weekdays, it’s relatively devoid of people. You’ll hardly hear any urban noise, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sounds of the wind, birdsong, and the fragrance of flowers.
Embrace Your Time in the Bishop’s Garden
To the south of the Washington National Cathedral lies the Bishop’s Garden, a lush green space where flowers bloom throughout the seasons.
The garden features a pavilion and an outdoor chapel, creating a verdant oasis within the same premises as the majestic cathedral.
When visiting the Washington National Cathedral, make sure to stop by the Bishop’s Garden and experience a brief encounter with nature. It offers a unique charm that you won’t find in traditional tourist attractions.
There are numerous cathedrals and churches in and around downtown Wash...
